Everyone in the EU has been told to pack a kit that will help them survive for three days in case of war or natural disaster. The advice, issued to nearly half a billion people across 27 countries, includes telling people to buy bottled water,

The manual will also list ways to participate in defending the community, such a volunteering for reserve units and joining firefighting groups.

The EU crisis management commissioner will present proposals for all citizens of the bloc to be advised on how to prepare a 72 hour survival kit.