Are you ready for 72 hours? Thailand urges emergency bag preparations

BANGKOK– Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has urged households to prepare emergency bags containing enough food, water, medicine and essential supplies to survive for at least 72 hours, citing international concerns over conflicts in the Middle East and the need for disaster preparedness.

Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, director-general of the DDPM, said several countries had advised their citizens to stockpile essential supplies for three days amid concerns over the situation in the Middle East.

Although Thailand is not among the countries facing such risks, he stressed that preparing an emergency bag is a basic precaution that could help people cope with unexpected situations.

The bags are intended not only for international conflicts but also for natural disasters, including flash floods, landslides and earthquakes, as well as disease outbreaks, fires, riots and other emergencies.

According to the DDPM, the first 72 hours following a disaster are particularly critical, as affected residents may need to survive on their own while authorities mobilise assistance.

The department recommended that every household prepare an emergency bag containing six categories of essential supplies:

1. Medicine and healthcare: First-aid kits, basic medicines, prescription medication and medical records.
2. Food and water: At least three litres of drinking water per person per day, ready-to-eat meals and high-energy snacks, along with special food for children, elderly people and those with medical needs.
3. Communication devices and tools: Mobile phones, power banks, flashlights, spare batteries, battery-powered radios, whistles, candles, lighters, notebooks, pens, pocket knives, scissors, ropes and tape.
4. Important documents and cash: Copies of identification cards, household registration documents, health insurance cards, driving licences, bank books and land title deeds, stored in waterproof bags, along with spare keys and cash in case electronic payment systems become unavailable.
5. Personal hygiene supplies: Tissues, toothbrushes, toothpaste, toiletries and rubbish bags.
6. Clothing and shelter essentials: Spare clothes, raincoats, hats, blankets and sleeping bags.

Nirat said every household should keep an emergency bag ready for immediate evacuation, whether the threat comes from a natural disaster, cyberwarfare or international conflict.

He recommended using a lightweight, waterproof bag stored in an easily accessible location, with supplies regularly checked for damage and expiry dates.

The DDPM also said it had prepared disaster-response equipment, emergency personnel and early warning systems, including Cell Broadcast alerts, to respond to potential emergencies.

The department said it would continue coordinating with relevant government agencies on emergency response and relief plans to protect the public.