Europeans should stockpile enough food and water to last 72 hours in case of emergencies including attack by a foreign power and natural disasters, Brussels has said.

On Wednesday, the European Commission said its new EU Preparedness Union Strategy would help citizens prepare for risks including geopolitical crisis, pandemics, cyber attacks, extreme weather caused by climate change and invasion.

The strategy focusses on improving early warning systems, ensuring the continuity of essential services such as healthcare and drinking water and helping citizens prepare for responding to crises.

In launching the initiative, its chief said this must be the “new European way of life”.

Brussels also advised its member states to “integrate preparedness lessons into school curricula and introduce an EU Preparedness Day” to raise awareness.

The call to action for the 450 million citizens comes amid persistent fears over Russian aggression, as well as after recent flooding and wildfires.