[Scarlett.]

AN ONLINE drive encouraging members of the public to "be prepared" by packing a bag with emergency items such as passports, a first aid kit and a torch has been criticised by some social media users.

The grab-and-go-bag campaign is being promoted by police forces across the UK, including Police Scotland, and by councils.

A tweet posted on an official Police Scotland account showed an image of the 'grab bag' containing various emergency items.

A message accompanying the tweet said: "September is preparedness month. Emergencies can happen at any time and it’s recommended to have a #GrabBag ready containing essential items including medication, copies of important documents, food/water, torch, radio and other personal items."

Clothing suitable for the weather, toiletries , a pen and notepad, phone charger, whistle, batteries and a first aid kit were also shown in the image of what should be packed.

The grab bag campaign quickly went viral as social media users accused authorities of scaremongering, while others questioned whether they "know something we don't".

Others took the opportunity to mock the campaign as images of alien invasion, zombie apocalypse or rucksacks filled with champagne were shared on Twitter instead.

It comes amid speculation tonight that Prime Minister Boris Johnson could declare a national emergency under the terms of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, in order to force through a no-deal Brexit.

Herald Scotland