Prepare an Emergency Winter Kit in Case You Lose Electricity
We depend on electricity to power our TVs, cell phone chargers, laptops, refrigerators, and so on. When you lose electrical power due to a snow or ice storm, what can you do to keep your family as comfortable as possible until it comes back on? It’s important to prepare an emergency winter kit ahead of time.
In your kit, you should have the following items:
- Flashlights. Keep several flashlights on hand. Also, keep several fresh, spare batteries on hand. Flashlights are much safer than relying on burning candles.
- Cell phone chargers. While you usually charge your phone by plugging it into a wall outlet or your computer, this is not something you’ll be able to do when the power is out. Be sure that you invest in power banks for all your phones. Also, have a car charger for your phone. This charger can be plugged into your car’s cigarette lighter or auxiliary plug.
- Battery-powered radio. Since you won’t be able to use your TV or computer to keep up with the news and weather with your TV or computer, you will need to invest in a battery-powered radio to keep your family informed of potential evacuation orders or updates on the power outage. Be sure to also have fresh batteries on hand for the radio in case you may need them.
- Non-perishable food items. It’s wise to keep at least three days’ worth of food for each family member inside of your emergency kit. Non-perishable foods include: canned soup, canned vegetables, canned fruits, peanut butter, crackers, and canned meats. Remember to include a can opener, and it’s always good to have plenty of bottled water on hand.
- Blankets and extra clothing. If you have an electrical-powered furnace or boiler, you won’t be able to run it when the power is out. To keep warm, have ample spare blankets and extra clothing on hand. Dress in as many layers as possible to prevent hypothermia.
- First aid kit. Keep a current first aid kit ready with bandages, necessary medications, antibiotic ointments, and sterile gauze pads.
While nobody wants to deal with a power outage, preparing your family ahead of time is absolutely critical during the winter months. Be sure you have these items in your winter emergency kit so you can stay safe and comfortable.