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Flashlight -

You won't get far in an emergency without a flashlight, which is why it tops our list of supplies you'll need.

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Flashlight -

When buying one specifically for a crisis, try to pick one with the longest battery life possible. Some can stay shining for up to 20 hours!

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Water -

You never know what could happen, so it's always wise to have extra supplies of water on hand, just in case.

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Water -

Having a backup of several gallons of water will keep you and your loved ones hydrated for a few days, in the event of being stuck at home without power or the ability to leave.

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Non-perishable foods -

Foods in your fridge or freezer will spoil if there's a power outage for long enough, and you won't be able to eat them. That's where non-perishable items come in.

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Non-perishable foods -

Plan to have enough tinned and pantry items to eat. You can make delicious meals with grains and canned goods. Store a variety, so you don't get bored.

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Hand sanitizer -

Think about it: if you need to limit your water use, you'll need to have something to keep your hands clean. Stock up on hand sanitizer, just in case.

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Power bank -

Few people still have landlines. If the power goes out, you'll need your phone to stay in touch with loved ones, and it must be charged to do so.

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Power bank -

Keep a family supply of charged, portable power banks so that you have easy access to them in the event of an emergency.

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Portable radio -

A battery-operated radio can keep you in the loop with the latest news, and local radio stations could provide updates specific to your area.

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Portable radio -

Some models are available that are solar-operated or come with extra features like built-in flashlights and reading lights, too.

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Candles -

Keep a supply of candles at home. In the event of losing power, you can keep some rooms in your home illuminated.

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Cooler -

A cooler will help save some items while you're waiting for the power to come back, so keep one in reserve for the absolute essentials.

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Cooler box -

Some brands make large, heavy-duty coolers that can keep your perishables chilled for much longer than a basic cooler bag.

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Batteries -

Many of the items needed to replace those operated by electricity will run on battery power. There's no point having all your emergency items and no batteries to power them!

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First aid kit -

Keep a first aid kit at home and check it every few months for supply levels. It should contain painkillers, antihistamines, plasters of different sizes, tweezers, scissors, and bandages.

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First aid kit -

Other first aid kit supplies that are recommended include a thermometer, sterile eye dressings, distilled water, rash cream, antiseptic cream, eye wash, and bite/sting relief cream.

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Prescription medicines -

If you can, try to keep a backup supply of any prescription medicines you take. At the very least, have them close at hand so you remember to take them in the event of an evacuation.

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Bucket -

If you need to conserve water, you won't want to flush too much. Using a bucket of water to "force flush" is one option to prevent running down your supply.

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Sleeping bag -

An insulated sleeping bag will keep you warmer if the power goes out and there's no available heat source, particularly in winter.

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Blankets -

It's a good idea to have extra blankets so you can layer them on top of each other. What's more, ensure there are enough for everyone in the home.

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Gas heater -

Keep a portable gas heater in reserve for times when there is a power outage and you are unable to heat your home. At least you'll be able to keep one room warm!

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Portable cooler -

If you live in a high-heat climate, have a portable/battery life cooler on standby for emergency situations during the warmer months.

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Gas cooker -

A portable gas cooker can be used to heat water for tea and coffee, or to warm up non-perishable food items. Never use this cooker inside though, or in confined spaces.

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Pet food -

While you're stocking up on non-perishable food for the humans in the home, don't forget to also add enough extra supply for your pets.

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Pet food -

A small outage could end up turning into a longer, multi-day event, so make sure to have a backup of food. You don't want your furry friend to go hungry!

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Portable lantern -

A consistent source of light comes in handy if you want to play games to keep your kids entertained. Get your own battery-operated lantern.

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Playing cards -

Depending on how long the power is out, you'll need to keep yourself entertained. But, of course, you don't want to run down your phone's battery. A pack of cards will come in handy!

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Board games -

The power might be out, but that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun. Board games are enjoyable and can help kill time.

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Books -

If all else fails, having a supply of interesting books that you can read by a candle or lantern will make the loss of power a lot more bearable. 

Sources: (Taste of Home) (NHS) (The Guardian)

See also: Big cities on the brink of natural disaster

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