When a storm is on the horizon, being prepared is crucial for keeping your home and family safe. While storm season can be unpredictable, having the right items on hand can make all the difference in weathering the event. In this post, we’ll highlight some must-have home items that will ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
Battery-Powered or Solar-Powered Radio
In the event of a power outage, staying informed is crucial. A battery-powered or solar-powered radio can help you stay updated on weather alerts, evacuation orders, and local emergency information. Many modern versions also come with built-in flashlights and phone chargers, making them even more versatile.
Kaito KA500: A versatile emergency radio with AM/FM/SW bands, a built-in LED flashlight, and a USB port for charging devices.
FosPower Emergency Weather Radio (Model A1): This versatile emergency radio features AM/FM/NOAA bands, a built-in LED flashlight, and a 2000mAh power bank for charging devices.
Water Storage and Filtration
Access to clean water is often one of the first things compromised during a storm disaster. Consider having water storage containers on hand that can be filled before the storm hits. Additionally, portable water filtration systems like water purification tablets or a filtration straw are invaluable in case your water supply is contaminated or disrupted.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter: A compact, easy-to-use filter ideal for emergencies, capable of filtering up to 1,000 gallons of contaminated water.
WaterBrick Stackable Containers: Durable, stackable water containers perfect for storing clean water, each holding 3.5 gallons.
LED Lanterns and Flashlights
When the power goes out, reliable lighting is essential. Stock up on LED lanterns and flashlights that run on long-lasting batteries. LED lights are energy-efficient and provide brighter light for extended periods. Be sure to keep spare batteries on hand to avoid being left in the dark.
Vont LED Lanterns: Compact, collapsible lanterns with long-lasting LED lights, offering up to 90 hours of illumination.
Anker Bolder LC90 Flashlight: A rechargeable flashlight known for its durability and brightness, featuring a 900-lumen output and adjustable focus.
Power Banks and Backup Generators
Power outages during storms can last from hours to days, leaving you without access to electricity. A fully charged power bank will ensure your mobile devices stay charged, allowing you to stay connected with family and emergency services. For extended outages, investing in a backup generator—whether fuel-powered or solar-powered—can keep critical devices and appliances functioning.
Anker PowerCore Portable Charger: A high-capacity power bank for charging multiple devices, with 20,000mAh capacity and fast-charging technology.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240: Compact and efficient, suitable for longer outages, providing 240Wh of power with multiple output options.
First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen in any emergency, so having a well-stocked first aid kit is a must. Your kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. It’s also wise to include a whistle and basic tools like a multi-tool or wrench in case you need to turn off utilities.
Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit: Includes all the essentials plus a mini-kit for easy carrying, totaling 120 medical-grade items.
Surviveware Small First Aid Kit: Known for its durable, water-resistant packaging and well-organized contents, containing 98 high-quality emergency supplies.
Non-Perishable Food Items
During a storm, grocery stores may close, or you might not be able to leave your home. Stock your pantry with non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, protein bars, and ready-to-eat meals. Opt for items that don’t require cooking and have a long shelf life. Don't forget a manual can opener!
Augason Farms Emergency Food Supply: Freeze-dried meals with a long shelf life, ideal for emergency storage, providing 30 days of food for one person.
Mountain House Adventure Meals: Ready-to-eat meals that require only water, perfect for storm situations, with a variety of options and a 30-year taste guarantee.
Heavy-Duty Tarps and Plastic Sheeting
Storms often come with high winds and torrential rain, which can damage roofs and windows. Heavy-duty tarps and plastic sheeting are essential for making temporary repairs to your home. They can help prevent further water damage by covering broken windows, damaged roofs, or other exposed areas.
B-Air Grizzly Tarps: Heavy-duty, waterproof, and available in multiple sizes for emergency repairs, made from tightly woven polyethylene fibers.
Husky Plastic Sheeting: Thick, durable plastic sheeting ideal for covering broken windows or damaged roofs, available in various thicknesses and sizes.
Sandbags and Water Barriers
Flooding is a common occurrence during storms, and sandbags are an effective way to protect your home from rising waters. Placing sandbags around doorways, windows, and low-lying areas can help prevent water from entering your home. There are also modern alternatives, such as inflatable water barriers, which are easier to store and deploy.
Quick Dam Flood Barriers: These sandless bags expand on contact with water, providing a quick and easy flood barrier, and are reusable.
Dam Easy Door Barrier: No need for adhesives, hardware or damaging additions to your home. The Dam Easy flood barrier system is simply placed into position, extends to fit your opening, and inflates to provide a strong, watertight seal to keep water out.
Fire Extinguisher
It might seem counterintuitive, but fire hazards increase during power outages as people rely on candles or generators. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it. A multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher is best for handling various types of fires that may occur.
First Alert HOME1: An easy-to-use, reliable ABC-rated fire extinguisher for home emergencies, with a durable metal head and 10-year warranty.
Kidde Pro 210: Known for its effectiveness on all types of fires, ideal for emergency situations, featuring a pressure gauge for immediate status check.
Important Documents and Emergency Binder
Make copies of important documents like insurance policies, identification, and medical records. Store them in a waterproof, portable container or binder. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency contact list, evacuation plans, and maps in the same binder. This will ensure that, in case of an emergency, you can easily grab your essential papers.
SentrySafe Fireproof & Waterproof Safe: A small, portable safe for important documents and valuables, providing 30 minutes of fire protection and 72 hours of water resistance.
ENGPOW Fireproof Document Bag: Affordable and portable, offering protection for essential papers, withstanding temperatures up to 5,200°F.
Warm Blankets and Waterproof Gear
Storms, especially during colder months, can leave you without heating for long periods. Keep warm blankets, sleeping bags, and waterproof clothing handy. Waterproof ponchos, boots, and gloves will also keep you dry if you need to venture outside during the storm.
Coleman Sleeping Bags: Known for durability and warmth, perfect for emergency conditions, with options suitable for various temperature ratings.
Totes Waterproof Ponchos: Affordable and lightweight, ideal for storm emergencies, featuring full coverage and easy storage.
Multi-Purpose Cleaning Supplies
After the storm passes, cleaning up might be necessary. Stock up on multi-purpose cleaners, disinfectant wipes, and heavy-duty trash bags. Mold and mildew can form quickly after water damage, so having cleaning products ready is key to restoring your home.
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes: Convenient and effective for post-storm cleanup, killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria.
Glad ForceFlex Trash Bags: Strong, stretchable trash bags for handling heavy debris, with a dual-layer design for added durability.
Final Thoughts
While we can’t control the weather, we can control how we prepare for it. Having these essential items in your home before a storm hits ensures you’re ready for the unexpected. Staying prepared with the right tools and supplies can help you protect your home, keep your family safe, and recover quickly after a disaster.
What are your go-to storm essentials? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this post with others who may need it! Stay safe!
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