Essential Items for At-Home Emergency Kits for 7 Common Home Emergencies

Being prepared for any potential emergencies is essential for every homeowner. It’s important to know what to expect and have the right tools on hand in case of an emergency. Crafting at-home emergency kits is an important step in ensuring your family’s safety during uncertain times. Knowing what to include and having a plan put into place can help you deal with everything from power outages to extreme weather. From natural disasters to medical emergencies, here’s a comprehensive guide on preparing your own emergency kit for seven common scenarios.

Power Outages 

One of the most common emergencies homeowners face is a power outage. This could happen due to a storm or other extreme weather events or result from equipment failure or other technical issues. To prepare, it’s crucial to keep flashlights and extra batteries around your house or at-home emergency kits stored in a safe place in case you need them. Additionally, investing in backup power supply options like solar-powered generators can ensure you have power even when the grid fails.  Getting a little information on what is ac dc power supply before heading to your favorite handyman store would be helpful. Make sure to stock up on multiple candles to light the entire house during the dark. Also, stash several lighters and waterproof matches – this will ensure that you always have something available should the ones you’re using go out. Storing them in labeled, sealed containers will also protect them from moisture damage. Talk to a local company to set up a residential standby generator installation appointment. 

Flooding/Leaks                         

Another potential emergency situation that many homeowners face is flooding or water leaks due to plumbing issues or extreme weather events. To prepare for this scenario, make sure you have a reliable plumber on call who can come out quickly in an emergency situation and address any potential leaks as soon as possible. Additionally, consider investing in flood protection systems like sump pumps and backflow valves that will help protect your home from flood damage if needed. Preventing flooding from happening in the first place is the best thing you can do. 

Medical Emergencies    

Medical emergencies can happen at any time and require immediate attention. Make sure you are familiar with all of the resources available in your area such as hospitals, urgent care centers, pharmacies, etc., so that you can get help quickly if needed. Additionally, having basic first aid supplies on hand can help you provide assistance until medical professionals arrive on scene.  Make sure you always have a supply of your prescription medications in case of a natural disaster as well. You don’t want to be without these when a disaster strikes. 

Natural Disasters    

Natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires, etc., are unpredictable yet very real threats that many people face each year. The best way to prepare for these types of events is by creating an emergency plan ahead of time so everyone knows what steps they need to take if something happens. Additionally, make sure all family members know where important documents are stored so they can be retrieved quickly if needed and keep items like non-perishable food items and bottled water on hand just in case it’s needed during an emergency situation.  You may want to create at home emergency kits for each member of your family with enough food, water, and supplies for 3 days.   

Natural disasters are unpredictable, and in many cases the power can go out. Make sure you’re prepared by having a variety of powered items stored in your emergency kit such as batteries, flashlights, torches, camping lights etc. to provide lighting during an emergency situation. You should also include some type of mobile communication device such as a CB radio or two-way radios so that you can easily communicate with others should the phone lines be down. Additionally, store spare car chargers and solar-powered phone chargers so that you have back up power for small devices.

Fire Prevention       

Finally, fire prevention should always be top-of-mind when it comes to emergency preparedness planning. Make sure smoke detectors are installed correctly throughout your home and check them regularly to ensure they’re working properly. Have fire extinguishers readily available (especially near kitchens) and educate everyone living in your home about proper fire safety procedures so they know how to react if a fire does occur.    

Fires can quickly cause a great deal of damage, so it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for as many emergencies as possible. In addition, at home emergency kits should include an emergency fund for fire damage, you should also have a working smoke detector and a fire extinguisher kept in your home at all times. You may even want to invest in a fire blanket, which is helpful for smothering small fires or creating a barrier from heat and smoke.    

Home Intrusion

If you’re worried about intruders entering your home, consider obtaining personal security alarms. Doorstop alarms and window alarms that allow you to set off a very loud alarm which will alert both yourself and neighbours when triggered. For an extra layer of security, set up motion activated flood lights at the perimeters of your home or use motion detectors combined with surveillance cameras. You can also invest in a safe or gun cabinet to store valuable items, or even weapon if needed.

System Failure

Whether you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or a broken refrigerator, having the right items on hand can make all the difference when it comes to resolving problems quickly. Invest in a multitool kit that contains a variety of tools and gadgets that you might need for various system failures. A good multitool can leverage many different types of components – including both traditional and precision arrangements. Duct tape is also useful for fixing components with minor leaks and abrasions, as well as for constructing makeshift piping systems for temporary repairs. Consider adding insulated gloves to your kit to protect yourself from electrical shocks while working with wires and other accessories.

While no one ever wants to think about the possibility of an emergency happening at their home or business — it’s better safe than sorry. Taking the time now to understand what common emergencies may occur in your area and coming up with a plan ahead of time can save you time and hassle down the road should something unexpected happen at your property someday down the line. Investing in at home emergency kits now will give you peace of mind knowing that if something does happen — you’ll be well prepared.