Public Safety Canada is reminding Canadians to prepare for at least 72 hours without running water or electricity during an emergency.
The advice follows similar preparedness campaigns in the United Kingdom and other countries, where officials warn that cyberattacks and severe weather could disrupt essential services.
London launched its Be Ready campaign on Oct. 22, encouraging residents to stock emergency supplies, including bottled water and non-perishable food. Some U.K. retailers reported increased sales of essential goods.
Suzanne Bernier, an instructor at the Disaster Recovery Institute of Canada, says Canadians should consider keeping at least seven days of supplies.
Bernier says natural disasters, human-caused emergencies and cyberattacks are increasing concerns, particularly when critical infrastructure is affected.
Public Safety Canada says 72 hours is a minimum recommendation, noting some communities could face longer service disruptions or delays in emergency response.
Bernier also recommends keeping a go-bag ready in case residents need to evacuate their homes.
