The Brits tend to 'put on the pot' at the first sign of trouble. Having a hot cup of tea at hand is considered to be a step in the right direction in any situation. There is a lot to be said for that view. Starting a critical situation well hydrated, warmed up, both physically and mentally stimulated, but relaxed is good.

I drink tea but, unless there is reason to think I should sleep, I generally go for a cup, or three, of good strong coffee. So, in my case, if a situation rolls around, my first thought is to put on a pot of coffee. I'm not picky about type. Generic coffee is fine and drinking it black is the only way to go. Cream and sugar are for people who would rather be drinking a milkshake.