12 Essentials You Should Always Have in Case of an Emergency
Stock up on these products so you're prepared during a crisis.
To make sure you're prepared for an emergency such as a power outage or a hurricane, experts recommend always having a back up of certain things in your home. These items fall into four categories: food and water, light and power, health and safety, and personal and household hygiene products. In certain emergencies, your water supply may be cut off, food may become contaminated, and you might have no way of leaving the house or charging your devices. That's where the following 12 items come in.
To ensure you're able to stay warm, safe, fed, and hydrated in the case of an emergency, experts recommend stocking up on things like shelf-stable food, heavy-duty trash bags, and toilet paper. For most items, you should plan on having enough to last for anywhere from three days to a week. Use the below checklist to get your home stocked and ready for any potential emergencies.
Batteries
It's always good to have extra batteries on hand. Purchase multiples of the most commonly used batteries, such as AA and AAA batteries and charge any rechargeable batteries you own. If there are extras in your junk drawer, test them and discard any that no longer work to prevent confusion during an emergency.
Portable Power Bank and Phone Charger
Keeping your devices charged is key, as it allows you to make and receive calls or pull up a map when needed. Have two or three portable power banks on hand, as well as a portable phone charger so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Flashlights
You should always have multiple flashlights in your home, storing them in key areas like the kitchen, entryway, and bedroom. They provide light during a power outage, maximize safety, and are easily portable. You can also supplement flashlights with solar or rechargeable lanterns and wireless rechargeable light bulbs.
Bottled Water
To ensure you have enough clean drinking water in case your water supply is cut off or contaminated, stock up on bottled water. It has a long shelf life and is easily portable—both important factors during emergencies. Plan on one gallon per person for a three-day period.
Shelf-Stable Food
Stock your pantry with a three-day supply of shelf-stable foods such as canned goods, nut butters, granola bars, and crackers. They don't require cooking or refrigeration and have a long shelf life, making them ideal for power outages and emergency situations. Pro tip: Don't forget to have a can opener on hand!
Pet Food
If you have pets in the home, keep a three- to seven-day emergency supply of pet food handy. Emergencies are not the time to experiment with new pet food, so stock up on your furry friend's favorite. You don't want to deal with any digestive issues during an emergency.
Toilet Paper
The last thing you want during an emergency is to run out of toilet paper! On average, one person uses between eight and 12 rolls of toilet paper per month, and it's recommended that you have that many extra rolls ready for emergencies. Store the extra supply in a waterproof bag or airtight container to prevent potential moisture damage.
Heavy-Duty Trash Bags
Heavy-duty trash bags are one of the most versatile items you can have for an emergency. You can use them to contain trash, discard waste, waterproof belongings and supplies, create makeshift rain gear and clean debris. Instead of regular trash bags that tear easily, get contractor-grade bags that are thicker and sturdier.
Hand Sanitizer or Sanitizing Wipes
If your water supply is cut off or contaminated, having extra bottles of hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes is crucial. It's a good way to help prevent the spread of germs and maintain good hygiene despite the lack of water. Additionally, you can use the wipes to sanitize surfaces in your home.
First Aid Supplies
Whatever the emergency, extra first aid supplies can prove to be a real life saver if you're unable to leave your home or waiting for professional help to arrive. Having extra supplies ensures you're using clean and sanitary items instead of having to reach for potentially dirty makeshift supplies out of desperation.
Prescription Medication
If you know there's a major blizzard or other potential emergency situation on the way, be sure to have a sufficient supply of your prescription medications. This will help avoid potentially dangerous medication interruptions if you're unable to leave your home, the pharmacy is closed, or there are medication shortages.
Warm Blankets
A stack of warm blankets in your linen closet is useful for a number of potential emergencies. Of course, you'll be glad you have extras if there's a power outage and you need to stay warm. They'll also be useful if there's been an accident and someone is in shock, if there's a need for a makeshift shelter, or you have to soak up excess water during a flood.
Maria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.
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