Complete Guide to Must-Have Emergency Essentials

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Complete Guide to Must-Have Emergency Essentials
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No one wants to be in any form of an emergency or danger. As humans, the primary instinct is to stay away from places harmful to us and our loved ones. That said, it is always recommended to be prepared during times of emergency, like fire emergencies or natural disasters. In such cases, one should have emergency essentials ready with them that would help them make an instant decision.

Jackery Solar Generators are an ideal source of solar power that helps charge the most important electronic appliances, like smartphones, portable lights, laptops, portable fans, etc. So, when you aim to make an emergency essentials list, do not forget to add the Jackery Portable Power Stations. These portable power stations are compact, lightweight, and charge fast when plugged in with Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels, which makes them an ideal companion during emergencies.

Why Do We Need Emergency Essentials?

It is said that "Precaution is always better than cure." So, there are several reasons why one should have emergency essentials ready with them at all times, like:

Security & Safety

In the chaos of disaster or emergencies, basic services like water, electricity, and communication networks can be disrupted. A well-prepared emergency essentials would provide items like flashlights, first aid kits, portable power stations, and emergency communication devices. These essentials offer reassurance and protection during emergency times.

Self-Reliance & Preparedness

By assembling an emergency essentials kit, individuals can take proactive steps towards self-reliance. When one has essential supplies ready, they can respond swiftly to unforeseen events, which reduces reliance on external aid.

Comfort & Well-Being

Emergencies, like earthquakes, fire, hurricanes, etc, can be stressful and disorienting, particularly for children and elderly individuals. Emergency essentials go beyond mere survival by addressing the psychological well-being of families. Items like water, blankets, and non-perishable items provide a sense of normalcy and comfort.

10 Must-Have Emergency Essentials

There are several things that one should carry at the time of emergency. However, the emergency essentials list should comprise items that are easy to carry, portable, lightweight, and offer the maximum result.

Some of the must-have emergency essentials are:

Non-perishable Food & Water

Non-perishable food items like granola bars, dried fruits, and canned goods, along with an ample supply of water, are considered fundamental for sustaining energy during emergencies.

Flashlight & Extra Batteries

A reliable flashlight is important for navigating in a dark environment. Having extra batteries or a Jackery Portable Power Station ensures that your flashlight always has sufficient power.

First Aid Kit

Maintain a comprehensive first aid kit containing essential medical supplies, like pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptics. Such a first aid kit would work as a primary source for administering immediate medical care at the time of need.

Sanitation & Hygiene Supplies

Maintaining proper hygiene is important for preventing illness during emergencies. Some of the important sanitation supplies can be toilet paper, personal hygiene items, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, etc.

Sleeping Bags & Warm Blankets

Sleeping bags and warm blankets provide rest and protection from unknown external sources. Such bags and blankets help conserve body heat in adverse weather conditions.

Communication Devices

Battery-powered radios, smartphones, and two-way radios are also a must-have emergency essentials. With such reliable communication devices, one can get in touch with loved ones or even with a rescue team.

Spare Clothes & Shoes

Include spare shoes and clothes that provide comfort and protection from environmental hazards. Depending on the weather conditions, one can carry jackets, hats, gloves, and cargo pants.

Eyeglasses & Hearing Aids

For individuals with vision or hearing impairments, it is recommended to have spare eyeglasses and hearing aids for maintaining sensory functions.

Medications & Equipment

Ensure that you carry all essential medications and medical equipment for all those individuals who have chronic medical conditions. Stocking up on the prescribed medications helps manage health conditions and prevent unnecessary complications.

Health Information & Documentation

Organize and store important health information of every family member. These documents should include insurance cards, emergency contact information, identification documents, etc. These important resources come in handy to facilitate communication with a rescue team.

must have emergency essentials

Complete Emergency Essentials List

Even if you have added must-have items to your emergency essentials pack, you can never go wrong by creating a list that includes everything that you might need during any emergency. There are several important emergency-related items that one should carry, and depending upon the type of emergency, one can adjust their emergency kit accordingly.

For example, if one lives in an area prone to earthquakes, they might include sturdy shoes, extra blankets, sleeping bags, etc., in their list. However, if one lives in an area that faces frequent power outages due to storms, one can have a battery-powered radio and a Jackery Portable Power Station to power up the appliances.

The emergency essentials lists are categorized into three major sections: emergency gear, which includes items like knives, lighters, water filters, Jackery Portable Power Station, etc. Emergency first aid includes essentials like antibiotics, medical wipes, alcohol, insect repellent, etc., and emergency toiletries that would comprise camp soap, reusable bags, sanitizers, etc.

complete emergency essentials list

Emergency Essentials: Gear

Emergency gear is among the first things that one should add to their emergency essentials list. From facilitating communication and self-sufficiency, emergency gears are important tools in times of crisis.

Having an emergency gear with you in the pack is important for several reasons, like:

Self-Reliance: Emergency gear helps individuals to take well-informed measures in responding to emergencies. With emergency gears in place, one can enhance their readiness to face unforeseen challenges during a crisis.

Safety: Properly selected emergency gear can significantly improve safety and security during an emergency. A few items like flashlights, knives, and multitools not only help in basic chores but come in handy during emergency situations.

Adaptability: Emergency gear is designed to adapt to a wide range of scenarios and conditions. Whether you need access to clean water sources or need to communicate with the rescue teams, the different emergency essential gears can help you adapt to the circumstances easily.

Some of the must-have essential gears are:

  • Flashlight
  • Multitool
  • Lighter or fire starter
  • Water filter
  • Compass
  • Radio
  • Jackery Portable Power Stations
  • Emergency Whistle
  • Emergency Shelter
  • Paracord
  • Duct tape
  • Multipurpose tarp
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Portable stove or cooking equipment

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station, Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Portable Power Station, and Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station are portable in design and can help you power up your emergency gear.

Emergency Essentials: First Aid

A well-prepared first aid kit provides essential supplies and resources for addressing any medical emergency during a crisis. From minor cuts to some serious injuries, a first aid kit can make a significant difference in any emergency situation.

Some of the prominent benefits of having an emergency kit with you are:

Immediate Medical Response: In certain emergencies, immediate medical intervention can prevent further complications. A well-stocked first kit can help administer prompt first-aid measures until professional medical assistance is available.

Injury Management: Accidents are very common during emergencies, and having access to appropriate first aid supplies like bandages and painkillers can help manage injuries and reduce pain.

Medical Preparedness: A first aid kit can ensure that individuals can easily handle a variety of medical situations that may arise during emergencies.

Some of the must-have emergency essentials in a first-aid kit are:

  • Adhesive bandages (various sizes)
  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • CPR mask or face shield
  • Emergency blanket
  • Splinting materials
  • Thermometer
  • Insect repellent
  • Medical history forms

Emergency Essentials: Toiletries

Emergency toiletries help maintain personal hygiene and well-being during emergencies. Having essential toiletry items can help individuals and families preserve their health and dignity in challenging circumstances.

A few important reasons to have emergency toiletries are:

Hygiene: Proper hygiene can prevent the spread of any illness or infection and help maintain overall health. Emergency toiletries like hand washing or toothpaste reduce the risk of infection and even promote well-being.

Dignity: Access to basic toiletries, like deodorant, toothpaste, and soap, gives individuals a sense of normalcy and dignity amidst the impending chaos.

Preparedness: When you include toiletries in your emergency kits, you will ensure that you will have the necessary items to maintain personal hygiene and comfort, regardless of the ongoing circumstances.

Some of the common emergency toiletries are:

  • Hand sanitizer or hand wipes
  • Body wipes or wet wipes
  • Travel-size shampoo
  • Insect repellent
  • Facial tissues
  • Disposable gloves
  • Camp soap
  • Antibacterial ointment
  • Liquid soap
  • Lip balm with sunscreen

More Emergency Essentials

When creating the emergency essentials list, one can categorize them for children and adults. On one hand, children require specialized items like diapers and comfort food. Whereas, adults may need special tools, personal documents, and communication devices. When one considers these factors, one can create an emergency package that fits the needs and requirements of all.

Important emergency essentials for kids:

Some of the important emergency essentials for kids are:

Comfort Items: Try adding some comfort items, like stuffed animals, blankets, or toys, to provide the children with some sort of assurance.

Baby Supplies: If you have infants at your place, ensure that you carry their medicines, diapers, baby food, and extra clothing.

Entertainment: Remember to carry extra books, crayons, and handheld electronic devices to keep children distracted during stressful situations.

Medications: Include important medications like asthma inhalers or allergy medications, along with the pediatric-requested first aid medications.

Identifications: Remember to carry a recent photograph and identification information in case of separation or related emergencies.

Important emergencies for Adults:

Similarly to children, there are several important emergency essentials for adults, like:

Communication Devices: Remember to carry a battery-powered radio, smartphone, or two-way radio for communication during the emergency services.

Portable Power Stations: Carry a Jackery Portable Power Station to provide reliable power for charging emergency essential devices, like radios, phones, laptops, or even lights during power outages.

First Aid Kit: Include a comprehensive first aid kit with essential medical supplies for addressing medical emergencies.

Food & Water: Try to stock up your emergency package with canned food, non-perishable food items, and bottled water.

Tool & Equipment: Try including multipurpose tools, like a knife or multitool, wrench, pliers, and duct tape. With a little creativity, one can improvise the solution with this tool and equipment.

emergency essentials for children and adult

Jackery Solar Generators for Power Outages

Severe weather can knock out power for hours or even days. Jackery is a leading solar brand that manufactures highly efficient solar generators, solar panels, and portable power stations. The Jackery Solar Generators are safe to use indoors and don't emit any toxic fumes, making them ideal for indoor use. The portability of the battery backup makes them suitable for severe thunderstorm outbreaks and evacuations, so you can stay connected and powered on the go.

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 has a massive battery capacity to support essential household appliances, such as refrigerators, lights, cookers, etc. Despite the large battery capacity, it is the world's smallest and lightest 3kWh LFP, so you can carry the electricity generator for home even during evacuation. The best part is the Jackery's ZeroDrain, which ensures 95% power will be left even after 365 days of inactivity and storage. 

Appliances Running Time

  • Refrigerator (500W) = 5.0H
  • Sump Pump (1000W) = 2.6H
  • Portable Heater (1500W) = 1.7H
  • Electric Stove Burner (1800W) = 1.4H
  • Window AC (500W) = 5.0H
jackery solar generator homepower 3000 for severe thunderstorm outbreak

Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus is an essential home backup solution that can power refrigerators, washers, dryers, lights, etc., so you don't have to worry about spoiled food or wet clothes during severe thunderstorm outbreaks. The 0ms UPS switchover during blackouts ensures your fridge stays cold and Zoom calls remain connected in the blink of an eye. 

Appliances Running Time

  • Refrigerator (500W) = 7.8H
  • Sump Pump (1000W) = 4.1H
  • Portable Heater (1500W) = 2.7H
  • Electric Stove Burner (1800W) = 2.3H
  • Window AC (500W) = 7.8H
jackery solar generator 5000 plus for severe thunderstorm outbreak

Customer Review

"This is my second unit from Jackery. Love them. I bought the 5000-plus for backup for the coming storm season here in Houston, mainly to run the refrigerator. The great sale and stackable coupon sealed the deal." — David Tanaka.

How To Build Your Emergency Essentials Kit?

Several important steps need to be considered while building your emergency essentials kit. For instance, you need to add some generic items to it, like first aid or medical boxes. Additionally, your emergency essentials kit should last for a few extra days.

In order to build a correct emergency essentials kit, check out the following additional tips:

Assess Your Need: Always consider family size, special medical needs, and geographical location when planning out the content of your emergency kit.

Customize As Per Situation: Always tailor your emergency essential kit as per the circumstances. For instance, include items for infants, children, elderly family members, and pets.

Refresh Supplies: Make sure to regularly check and refresh your emergency kit to ensure that food, medicine, and liquid items do not exceed their expiration dates.

Include Document: Always make sure to carry a driving license, medical records, and emergency contact information in a waterproof pouch or a bag.

Practice: Bring your family members together and familiarize all of them with the contents of your emergency kit. If the location and time allow, then conduct mock drills to get yourself acquainted with the ins and outs of evacuation plans.

Emergency Essentials FAQs

What size of power station do I need for an emergency?

The size of the power station needed for an emergency depends on factors such as the duration, types of appliances, their wattage, and the number of appliances you intend to charge in one go.

The working hours that you will get with Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station are directly related to the number of concurrently used appliances. For instance, if you only used a laptop (70 W) and a smartphone (20 W) with it, then:

Working Hours = Battery Capacity in Wh * 0.85 / Wattage Consumption of All the Appliances

Working Hours = 2042.8 Wh * 0.85 / 90 W = 19.2 H

What should I pack for an emergency situation?

Emergency essentials can include non-perishable food items, water, first aid supplies, personal hygiene items, cash, prescription medications, Jackery Portable Power Station, emergency contact information, and more.

What is essential during any emergency?

The list of essentials can vary depending on the emergency, but water, food, shelter, a first aid kit, and communication devices are some of the most essential items during any emergency.

What are 3 basic items that you should have ready in a kit if you need to evacuate CDC?

As per CDC, the three basic items that you should have at the time of evacuation are water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food items, and a basic first aid kit.

What should be in a girl's emergency kit?

A girl's emergency kit should contain personal hygiene items, travel-sized toiletries, spare garments, pain relievers, and emergency contact information.

Final Thoughts

Being prepared for emergencies is important for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and families. When creating an emergency essentials list, make sure that it is curated for everyone and covers different needs. From basic necessities like food and water to communication devices and first aid supplies, make a list of all of these emergency essentials beforehand.

When creating the emergency essential list, it is recommended to include a Jackery Portable Power Station. The compact and ergonomic designs of these power stations make it lightweight and easy to carry during emergencies. The high-capacity batteries of these portable power stations can charge most of the household appliances, which makes them ideal for extended power cuts or as a permanent backup solution.

Disclaimer:

The runtime mentioned for appliances powered by Jackery is for reference only. Actual runtime may vary under different conditions. Please refer to real-world performance for accurate results.

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