Prep for Disaster: 10 Things You'll Need in a Home Emergency

Whether the power is out at home or you're stranded alongside the road changing a tire after dark, this extraordinary flashlight has you covered. But really, it's hard to label this gadget just a flashlight. Sure, the OxyLED flashlight can toggle between seven lighting modes (full bright/semi-bright/strobe, including a side white and red lights). But built from aluminum alloy and stainless steel, the gadget features a cutting knife, an attack hammer, a compass, and magnet that allows you to position it on any metal surface to works hands-free. Recharge its batteries at any old outlet via USB, or stick it out in the sun. With this tool by your side, no emergency situation will feel quite like an SOS. Available on Amazon; $19.99.

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In the event of an emergency, because your home may not maintain its usual easy access to potable water, FEMA and other government agencies recommend keeping a three-day supply on hand, just in case. Many homeowners decide to stockpile much more. However, no matter how much water you store in the basement or garage, there’s always the possibility of running out before the municipal supply returns to normal. To plan ahead for a situation in which you must source water in creative ways, consider investing in a household water purifier like the Big Berkey, a longtime favorite of both doomsday preppers and international aid organizations like UNICEF. Available at Amazon; $288.50.

Related: 14 Sneaky Ways to Save Money on Your Water Bill

You need at least one emergency radio capable of tuning into the "weather bands" used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Midland Digital Weather Radio stands out, because it runs on a range of power sources. Normally, its lithium ion battery charges via USB, but if the power goes out, you can hand-crank it, add in AA batteries, or rely on the small, built-in solar panel. Additional features include an ultrasonic dog whistle to signal search-and-rescue teams and an extra-bright, 130-lumen LED flashlight you can set to an SOS pulse. Best of all, if the NOAA puts out an alert, the units beeps and flashes, so you know to listen up. Available at Amazon; $69.99.

Related: 10 Essentials for Any Survival Kit

There are a lot of fancy gadgets out there, but the most reliable tool may be one of the simplest: the handy pocket knife. Small and lightweight, it is easy to carry during any emergency scenario, and with its spring assist, can be quickly accessed with one-handed deployment. No matter the situation, whether you need to clear away small brush, cut textiles, or slice food, the pocket knife can handle it. Available on Amazon; $8.53.

Related: 15 Handy Things to Get at Home Depot for Under $15

Your phone can save you in a disaster by connecting you to emergency services or nearby friends and family who can help you to safety. But during a disaster our devices are useless if they aren’t charged. The American Red Cross's FRX3, an all-in-one radio, flashlight, and charger, aims to keep you connected and your devices running—no matter what. The do-anything machine can be powered with rechargeable batteries, solar power, AAA batteries, or even a hand-crank so that no matter where you are, rain or shine, you'll be able to call for help. Available on Amazon; $43.59.

Related: 10 Emergencies Every Homeowner Should Know How to Handle

For the handy home improver, few pleasures compare to the joy of a well-stocked workshop. Take a look at this roundup of some of the best and most essential tools for DIYers of every stripe, and see which items might be missing from your own home improvement headquarters.