Self-preparedness is about what you can do at home to take care of yourself. It means having a small supply of food, water, and other essentials that could last you for at least one week on your own.
Week 44 marks the Self-preparedness Week, a national campaign from the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB), aimed at helping us become better equipped to handle emergencies. The goal is to raise awareness and inspire smart actions at home.
Are you prepared?
As a student, you might have limited space – and more exciting things to spend money on. But a little planning can go a long way if a crisis occurs. Being prepared means taking responsibility for your own safety and helping ensure that emergency services can reach those who need them most.
If you have your essential needs covered for one week, you will be better equipped to handle both minor and major disruptions. The most important thing is to get started, and even small steps can make a big impact.
A preparedness buddy can give you extra peace of mind when presented with unexpected situations. By teaming up with a fellow student or neighbour you can share equipment, cook together, or arrange a place to stay over for the night if needed. For students with limited space and resources, a preparedness buddy can make it easier to face challenges and build a sense of community when it matters most.
Think one week ahead
Keeping a small stock of essential items to get by for a week on your own enables you to face unforeseen emergencies. Think about what makes sense for you and your living situation. And remember, you don’t have to do it all alone.
Collaborate with friends, neighbours, or family to prepare. Regularly check your supplies to ensure everything is in order when needed.
Stronger together
Did you know that many of our student housing units in Tromsø have tenant assistants? These are students who live in our student housing while working for us. Their role is to help create a positive living environment and function as a link between residents and the organization.
Their main task is to promote wellbeing and community, through social activities, and kitchen meetings.
Talk to your tenant assistant about how you can collaborate on self-preparedness in your student housing. Together, you’ll be stronger!
Here are some tips:
- Talk to friends, neighbors, or your housemates about what could happen and how you can support each other.
- As a student, you can be a valuable resource to others. Find your preparedness buddy!
- A little self-preparedness is much better than none – the key is to start.
- It's often easier to store water in small bottles than in one large container.
- Make sure your water and supplies are stored in a way that doesn’t block evacuation routes.
Visit your municipality’s website for useful preparedness tips and local recommendations.
