Sir, – Further to Paddy Woodworth’s article, “We are now experiencing the terrible cost of the feedback loops of climate change”(May 6), the intensifying “Super El Niño” cycle, coupled with the broader impacts of climate change, brings an increased likelihood of extreme weather and electricity blackouts across Ireland.
Recent EirGrid reports highlight a “challenging situation” for our national grid between 2026 and 2028, suggesting that household self-reliance is now a practical necessity.
We should look to the Swedish model of the Krislåda (crisis box). The Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency encourages every citizen to be self-sufficient for at least one week.
A standard Krislåda includes three litres of water per person daily; non-perishable food; woollen blankets for warmth during power failures; a battery or crank radio for updates; a camping stove with fuel (to be used outdoors); a first-aid kit with prescription medicines, wet wipes, hand sanitiser and plastic bags for waste; and physical cash for when digital payments fail.
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Fostering this culture of preparedness ensures that, during a crisis, emergency services can focus their limited resources on the most vulnerable among us. It is time for our own authorities to provide similar, clear guidance on building preparedness and resilience at home. – Yours, etc,
Hugh Brennan,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.
