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Power outages can range from temporary and frustrating (who likes getting their power cut off while they’re working on their computer?) to downright dangerous if they’re the result of a natural disaster or emergency. We’ve often asked ourselves how well we’re prepared if something like that happens to us, and the answers to the question come in the form of these 15 key items to have on hand.
From portable chargers to emergency heaters, food rations to headlamps, here are our picks for items to keep at the ready for the next power outage that strikes. Stock up on these tools and supplies, and you’ll be more prepared to overcome the inconvenience of a brief outage — or survive if the situation worsens.
1. You can charge this Jackery power station straight from a regular outlet or using solar power, and its 1070Wh capacity can keep devices and even appliances running for hours.
2. Most portable chargers give you a few charges of a phone tablet at best, but this 50,000mAh power bank will give you up to 10 charges of your small devices.
3. Stay in tune with emergency radio broadcasts with the FosPower weather radio, which also comes equipped with an LED flashlight and a battery charger and can operate with hand-cranking.
4. We use this set of durable, battery-operated lanterns for camping trips, but they’re also handy for power outages and emergencies, too.
5. At 260 lumens, these headlamps are brighter than most headlamps at this price range, and they feature seven light modes and up to 35 hours of use on AAA batteries.
6. Having a supply of water is always important during an emergency, and you can store water for long periods in these military-grade BPA-free containers.
7. Weather- and drop-resistant, this 1000-lumen, compact tactical flashlight can adjust for wide-angle or focused illumination depending on what you need.
8. Protect your Wi-Fi connection, computers and other essential equipment during an outage for several hours with this battery backup and surge protector.
9. In situations where your car might be the only source of power, we recommend this power inverter, which offers two standard outlets as well as USB ports for charging mobile devices.
10. If you’re isolated during an outage and need food over an extended period, this food supply kit can come in handy — just add water and heat.
11. Speaking of heat, if you’re out of power and the heating is cut off, this indoor and outdoor heater can heat areas of up to 900 square feet and operate for 12 hours on a full tank of kerosene.
12. When you need a reliable lighter, whether it’s for lighting a fire or a gas burner, we recommend this arc lighter, which is rechargeable via USB-C and can function even in windy conditions.
13. This portable propane gas grill can cook up meals with 20,000 BTUs of heat — just make sure you’re using it outdoors!
14. It’s always good to have a first-aid kit on hand for emergencies, and this one includes everything from antiseptic pads to bandages, a thermometer and pain reliever tablets.
15. Stay warm even when the power is down with this set of emergency thermal blankets, which are windproof, waterproof and retain up to 90% of body heat.