Norway authorities urge citizens to prepare for one-week self-sufficiency

As part of Self-Preparedness Week starting October 26, Norwegian authorities have issued three specific recommendations to citizens to ensure readiness in the event of power, water, or communication failures.

Justice and Emergency Preparedness Minister Astri Aas-Hansen advises residents to identify local physical information points, as mobile networks and internet services may become unavailable during a crisis. A survey by the Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) indicated that only 30% of citizens know where to seek information from their municipality during such events.

Citizens are also encouraged to establish a ‘preparedness friend’—a pre-arranged agreement with family, friends, or neighbors to share resources like heating or food and to coordinate help. Additionally, the government recommends that households maintain enough supplies to be self-sufficient for one week, including approximately 20 liters of drinking water per person. Authorities suggest keeping a battery-powered DAB radio to receive emergency broadcasts via NRK P1 if digital networks fail.