It’s that time of year again – winter is coming. And with it, the possibility of blackouts.
Not to worry, you can buy a few essential items to make sure you’re ready for anything. Here are some of the most useful items for surviving winter blackouts. With this list, you can have everything you need to ride out a blackout comfortably.
Table of Contents
Light Source
A light source is one of the most important things you’ll need during a blackout. Of course, flashlights are a good option, but rechargeable headlamps are even better. A rechargeable headlamp frees up your hands so you can do other things, and it’s much more comfortable to wear for long periods.
Warm Clothes
If you live in a cold climate, make sure you have plenty of warm clothes. A coat, hat, scarf, and gloves are essential. In addition, it’s a good idea to bundle up in layers, so you aren’t too hot or too cold while waiting for the power to come back on.
Food and Water
You’ll need to think about food and water if the power is out for more than a few hours. Stock up on non-perishable items like canned food, granola bars, and dried fruit. And if you have a baby or small child, check that you have enough formula or diapers. It’s also a good idea to fill up your bathtub with water, in case the taps stop working.
First Aid Kit
A winter blackout is not the time to discover that you’re out of band-aids. So make sure you have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. Band-aids, gauze, and antiseptic cream are a must. You should also consider adding items like aspirin, cold medicine, and a thermometer.
If you have prescription medication, you may want to refill your prescription before the storm arrives. That way, you don’t have to worry about running out at the most inconvenient time.
Entertainment
If the power is out for several days, you’ll need something to keep your mind engaged. So stock up on books, magazines, puzzles, and games. If you have a laptop or tablet, make sure it’s fully charged. And if you have young children, consider buying some new toys to keep them occupied.
Heat Source
You may want to buy a heater that doesn’t need electricity to work. Some good examples are heaters that use propane or kerosene.
When purchasing a propane or kerosene heater, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. One of the most important is safety. Check that the heater has an automatic shut-off mechanism in case it overheats. You’ll also want to see whether the heater’s approved for indoor use.
Emergency Radio
An emergency radio is a must-have during a winter blackout. It can be used to listen to news and weather reports. And if the power is out for a while, some emergency radios can charge electronic devices.
Cell Phone Charger
Speaking of cell phones, stock your blackout survival kit with a phone charger that doesn’t require electricity. A good option is a car charger. That way, you can power up your phone while you’re on the go.
Tools
If you’re expecting a winter storm, stock up on some useful tools. A hammer, screwdriver, and pliers are essential for fixing damage the storm may cause. For instance, your roof may sustain damage from icicles, and tree branches can fall onto your home.
These are just a few of the most useful items for surviving winter blackouts. But no matter what you buy, the most important thing is to be prepared. So make sure you have a plan that prepares you for anything a winter storm may throw at you.