Else Beekman
Although 59% of Spaniards believe an emergency kit is unnecessary, a third say they still intend to prepare one. The kit, recommended by the EU as part of a new civil protection strategy, is sparking mixed and sometimes paradoxical reactions across Spain.
The European Commission has published a basic list of recommended emergency kit items to help households remain self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in the event of a disaster or crisis. According to these guidelines, a basic emergency kit should include:
- Water (minimum two litres per person per day)
- Canned or non-perishable food items
- A longwave radio (ideally battery-powered or wind-up)
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Hygiene products such as soap and toilet paper
- Cash (preferably at least €100 in small denominations, in case digital payments fail)
- Personal medication
- Cooking equipment and matches or lighters
- A whistle to signal for help
- Emergency blankets and warm clothing
This list is a suggested starting point and can be adapted to individual needs. Some countries also recommend including copies of important documents or solar-powered phone chargers.
Since late March, the European Commission has been advising citizens to prepare for emergencies, such as natural disasters or, though less likely, military conflict. A 72-hour emergency kit is seen as a practical step toward resilience.
However, a poll by Sigma Dos, commissioned by El Mundo, reveals that nearly 60% of Spaniards consider the kit unnecessary. Yet 33% say they will still go ahead and assemble one—highlighting a striking gap between belief and behaviour.
Age gap in emergency kit preparedness
Older respondents (65+) are the most sceptical: 65.7% see no need for the kit. Among 18–29-year-olds, that figure drops to 45.9%, with nearly 40% in favour of the idea.
Gender differences are also notable: 64.2% of men reject the idea, compared to 55% of women. Women appear slightly more receptive to the EU’s recommendations.
Political differences, surprising common ground
Contrary to expectations, political ideology does not clearly divide opinions. Both far-left (Sumar) and far-right (Vox) voters largely agree in rejecting the kit. However, 35.6% of socialist voters are in favour of preparing one.
A new “culture of preparedness”?
This initiative is part of the EU’s broader push to boost civilian resilience. Countries like Sweden and Finland have long-standing traditions in this area. Brussels is currently working on a detailed manual with practical household tips—though no publication date has been announced yet.
In reality, 54.6% of respondents admit they have no plans to prepare. Despite official warnings and awareness campaigns, many people remain reluctant to act until it might be too late.
Survey about emergency kit preparedness in Spain
The figures cited in this article are based on a representative survey conducted by research institute Sigma Dos for the Spanish newspaper El Mundo. Between 4 and 15 April 2025, a total of 1,819 Spanish residents aged 18 and over were interviewed via a combination of telephone and online panel surveys. The margin of error is ±2.3% at a 95.5% confidence level. The results offer valuable insight into public attitudes toward emergency preparedness in Spain.