Empty shops

What makes this different

Shops normally hold only a few days of stock. Strikes, cyberattacks, fuel shortages or panic can empty them quickly, but supplies usually recover within days to weeks.

First steps

• Do not panic-buy. Use your stockpile and buy normal amounts when you can.
• Eat perishable food first.
• Look for food in smaller shops, markets and farm shops, which can have stock when supermarkets do not.
• Keep supplies out of sight.

If it lasts weeks

• Ration food fairly and plan meals.
• Share with neighbours and swap: it builds goodwill and safety.
• Grow quick crops if you can: salad leaves, radishes and herbs in pots.