UK's Deputy PM urges preparation for potential network outages: 'Stock up on candles and radios'

In the coming year, UK residents will have the chance to acquaint themselves with the authorities' stance on sensible approaches to future risks including natural disasters, pandemics, and terrorist attacks, including cyber threats. The designated government website's mission is to ready the nation and its citizens for any potential disasters or collapse that may happen due to these unexpected incidents.

Dowden advises that every household should stock necessary items such as candles and battery-operated radios. He points out that even minor incidents can impact the 'digital gadgets' that have become indispensable in our lives.

As per the information provided by the 'Daily Mail', the Deputy Prime Minister is calling on people to prepare for a potential reversion to the 'analog era'. Even a minor, localized failure can result in loss of internet and power systems.

Dowden observed that people have become overly reliant on technology in recent decades. In a disaster situation, this could result in isolation and the creation of an 'information vacuum'.

In the past, everyone had a battery-powered radio. But Dowden asks, how many people today own a communication device that is not dependent on digital and electrical technology? "We should not assume that the resilience we had in the past persists. Society has digitized," he illustrates.

"Brits, stock up on candles and battery-powered radios," Dowden implores. He recalls a time when flashlights, candles, and torches were common household items, stored in the cupboard under the stairs, ready for power outages or issues with home utilities.

However, with society having "transformed beyond recognition" over the past 20-30 years, the government must now step in to protect its citizens. Dowden, whose role includes crafting UK resilience plans for exceptional circumstances, has created an official list of recommendations.

Dowden warns that artificial intelligence carries a "chronic risk" of cyber-attacks, as do chemical threats, he notes.

The Deputy Prime Minister spoke during a visit to Porton Down in Wiltshire, the location of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. The institute's role is defending the UK from chemical, biological, and radiological threats.

The new website, scheduled for lanch in 2024, will offer citizens the opportunity to register as volunteers. These teams will be trained to provide assistance in regional or national crises.

Oliver Dowden, born on August 1, 1978, in Park Street, is a British politician and member of the Conservative Party. He has been serving as the party's co-chair (alongside Ben Elliot), as well as Minister without Portfolio since September 15, 2021. From 2020-2021, he held the position of Minister for Culture, Media, and Sport of the United Kingdom. Since 2015, he has been the Member of the House of Commons for the Hertsmere constituency.