Top 11 Emergency Items for Your Home
Disasters can strike at any moment. We’ve seen it over and over again the past few years. In almost every area of the country.
A small percentage of these emergency situations require evacuation. But the vast majority of the time we hunker down. And ride them out at home.
There are two ways to handle a crisis. John Doe’s strategy is to rush out, drive all over town, and try to find the supplies he needs. Among the many challenges John might face are empty store shelves. Plus impassable roads and non-functioning gas stations.
Jane Doe’s strategy is very different. She has already spent time gathering all the supplies she might need for an emergency. So, she can quickly grab the ones she needs. And she knows right where the other items are that she will require later.
Which of those two people do you want to be? I’m guessing you’d rather be prepared in advance. It’s always better than scrambling for supplies likely to be unavailable.
Today we’re going to look at 11 emergency items you should gather in advance of the next crisis. Let’s get to it.
#1 Backup Power Solutions
Why they’re important: Power outages can leave you in the dark. And cut you off from essential devices. Such as phones, medical equipment, and refrigerators. A backup power source keeps you connected. And your critical devices running.
The best backup power solutions are portable power banks for the small stuff. And solar-powered generators for the bigger items. Remember to keep both fully charged with free energy from the sun.
#2 Emergency Food Kits
Stockpile at least three months’ worth of non-perishable food per household person. Ideally, freeze-dried meals with a 25-year shelf life. Make sure they’re easy to store and prepare.
Why it’s important: During emergencies, grocery stores can run out of stock. Or you may not have access to food for days or weeks. Having freeze-dried meals with a 25-year shelf life ensures your family is well-fed. No matter how long a crisis lasts.
Be sure to include meals for all dietary needs. Including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. And if you're a pet owner, don't forget about planning ahead for your animals.
#3 Water Filtration System and Storage
Why it’s important: Clean drinking water is vital for survival. But tap water can quickly become contaminated during disasters. Such as extreme weather including flooding that can cause power outages. Without water, dehydration can occur in just three days.
#4 Portable Fridge Option
Why it's important: A sudden power outage can cost you a boatload of money. How? By spoiling your food in refrigerators and freezers. That food won’t last long without a power source. And you won’t know how long the outage will last.
A fridge’s portability also comes in handy during evacuations. Like we’ve seen recently in the California wildfires. As well as in Florida hurricanes and North Carolina flooding. Ensure your food security with this item.
#5 Portable Stove
This type of stove can pull double duty. Not only is it convenient for heating water or cooking a meal. You can also use it for heat when necessary.
Why it’s important: A portable stove lets you cook meals and boil water for your family. Especially when the power goes out or you can’t use your kitchen appliances. This is especially critical during prolonged emergencies.
#6 Emergency Radio
A hand-crank or solar-powered radio allows you to receive weather alerts. As well as news you need to know when the grid is down.
Why it’s important: When the power and Internet go down, an emergency radio lets you stay informed. With weather alerts, news updates, and evacuation instructions. It’s a critical lifeline during disasters.
#7 Flashlights and Lanterns
Why they’re important: Power outages can make navigating your home at night difficult. Not to mention dangerous. Flashlights and lanterns provide reliable light. So you can safely move around, inside and out.
Get glow sticks or other backup lighting options for children or grandchildren. They might be in your home during an emergency.
#8 Multi-Tool or Emergency Knife
Why it’s important: A good multi-tool or emergency knife can handle dozens of tasks. From opening cans to cutting ropes. Or repairing broken equipment. This versatile tool can be a lifesaver in countless situations.
One of the advantages with this item is its size. You can keep several of them with your supplies. And they are very easy to carry in the case of an evacuation.
#9 First Aid Kit
Why it’s important: During emergencies, injuries are likely to happen. And medical help may not be immediately available.
A well-stocked first-aid kit will give you peace of mind. You know you’ll be able to treat small wounds, burns, or other injuries quickly. Keeping everyone free of infections will be a big help in a crisis. This kit could even potentially save a life.
#10 Blankets and Warm Clothing
You probably already have these items in your home. Try to keep them centrally located so that you can access them quickly in an emergency. Compact, thermal blankets and layered clothing will provide warmth in cold weather.
Why they’re important: You could lose power during a winter storm. Or find yourself stranded outdoors. Staying warm is essential to avoid hypothermia. Thermal blankets and extra layers can be lifesavers.
#11 Personal Documents and Cash
Why they’re important: In emergencies, ATMs may be offline. You might need cash to purchase supplies or services.
Place important documents in a waterproof plastic bag. Like IDs, insurance papers, and medical records. Make duplicates to keep in a fireproof safe.
That way they’ll be easily accessible when you need them. They could help you rebuild quickly if you’re displaced or need assistance.
Emergencies are inevitable. Preparing for them is what separates those who can handle big problems from those who panic.
Top Emergency Essentials
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