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Having an emergency kit can make power outages less stressful
Whether it’s thanks to a winter storm, a natural disaster, or just bad luck with some downed lines, every homeowner will likely face a power outage at some point. While always inconvenient, some prolonged outages can be downright scary if you are unprepared.
Thankfully, 10 essential emergency preparedness supplies can make things a bit easier and more comfortable when the lights go out.
Top 10 Power Outage Checklist Items
If you’re wondering what items you should include in your power outage kit, this checklist will help you get organized for a possible emergency. From food to batteries, here are the best options to stay safe, hydrated, and warm.
1. Light
When the power goes out, the first order of business is to make sure you can see where you are and what is happening. Ideally, there should be a flashlight available for every household member, and they should be kept in a central location.
Remember to take them out a few times per year to test the batteries and replace them as needed. Another option worth having in your emergency kit is a battery-free hand crank or solar-powered flashlight. Your phone may also serve as a flashlight in a pinch, but you don’t want to waste precious phone battery on a light.
2. Water
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Depending on the type of power outage, you may or may not have access to running water, so always keep several jugs or bottles on hand. These won’t stay good forever, so check the expiration dates and periodically replace your stash. As a rule of thumb, try to have two gallons of water stored for each person in your household.
3. Food
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Non-perishable food that is easy to open and doesn’t require cooking is essential during a power outage. Stock up on items that are high in protein and don’t take up too much pantry space. Canned chicken or fish, granola bars, nut butter, cans of fruit and vegetables, shelf-stable milk, trail mix, jerky, and beans can all be eaten both during and after an emergency.
4. Medication
Always keep track of your prescription medications and medical equipment so you can easily access them during a power outage. If a storm or other inclement weather is in the forecast, check the dosage remaining and order refills as needed. Also, pay attention to the battery life on devices such as nebulizers or oxygen tanks, and determine if you should obtain a backup battery or small generator in case of an emergency.
5. First Aid Kit
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Unfortunately, accidents can happen during a power outage, but many can be treated with a well-stocked first aid kit. When compiling your supplies, make sure to include the instructions, as well as the contact information for any healthcare providers your household may need to reach. The Red Cross sells premade kits, or you can refer to their suggested list to make your own.
6. Personal Hygiene
It’s essential to keep germs at bay as much as possible during a power outage, and items like hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes can be a huge help. Depending on the makeup of your household, you may also need to have extra diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, deodorant, and mouthwash at the ready.
7. Batteries and Battery-Powered Chargers
Check what kind of batteries your flashlights need, usually AA or AAA, and keep a few extra batteries in a known location (aka somewhere besides the back of the junk drawer). You’ll also likely be using your phone for information and updates, so that will need an additional power source as well. An external battery pack or solar-powered charger is essential to keep your phone going during an outage, and helpful even when the power is on.
8. Entertainment
With no screens available during a power outage, everyone (especially the younger set) is likely to get bored and antsy quickly. Find activities you can do by flashlight, such as cards, board games, crossword puzzles, and coloring books.
9. Sources of Warmth
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An outage during the winter months can be particularly alarming, as most furnaces will not work without a backup generator. Staying physically close together, dressing in layers, and utilizing sleeping bags will help keep everyone as warm as possible. While bundling up will work for most people, it is important to be aware of any signs that hypothermia may be setting in. In that instance, seek emergency care immediately.
10. Communication
Your cell phones will be an important link to obtaining information about the power outage, and keeping them charged is essential. In addition to utilizing spare battery packs, you can also charge phones using a laptop or the USB port in a car. If you live in an area prone to outages or are concerned about phone reliability, it may be helpful to add a battery-powered radio to your supply kit.
Create an Accessible Emergency Kit
By using the checklist, taking stock of what you already have, and making a few wise purchases, you will be able to pull together a power outage kit easily. Remember to check your supplies every six months for battery life and expiration dates.
You should also revisit as the weather changes and make adjustments as needed. This may include stockpiling more blankets in the colder months or adding some battery-powered fans in the summer.
While the idea of a power outage may feel overwhelming, having a go-to kit will help provide peace of mind in an emergency.