
Preparing for nuclear war – a Finnish survival guide!

Picture a Finnish winter night: the sky is glowing, but not with the northern lights – nuclear war has broken out. But you’re prepared! Getting ready for nuclear war with home-made methods is classic Finnish preparedness, and those of us who love handy solutions are all in – who wouldn’t want to be ready?
Preparing for nuclear war at home means protecting yourself from radiation and stockpiling supplies. Using a concrete basement or an underground space as shelter, plus a 14-day water supply (3 litres per person per day) and a stock of tinned food (like canned beans), are key. In Finland the supplies are easy to find in hardware stores and supermarkets (e.g. K-Rauta), and the cost is roughly €200–500 – a small investment in safety!
Preparing for nuclear war is like a bunker in your pocket – ready for the moment! In everyday life it can mean a calmer mind. Fun fact? You can call yourself a “Finnish nuclear guardian” – humour meets practicality!
Checklist
- Shelter: concrete basement, underground space
- Water: 3 litres per person per day, 14-day supply (about 42 litres / 11 US gal per person)
- Food: tinned food, dry rations, 14 days’ worth
- Radiation detector: Geiger counter (estimated €100–200)
- Warmth: wool or fleece clothing, sleeping bag
- Communication: a working phone, charger



