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20 Must-Have Items for Your Home Emergency Kit

Be Prepared for the Unexpected with These Essential Emergency Supplies

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In My Picks
January 21, 2025

In My Picks: 20 Must-Have Items for Your Home Emergency Kit
Be Prepared for the Unexpected with These Essential Emergency Supplies

When unexpected situations arise—be it a power outage, natural disaster, or a health emergency—having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference. In today’s edition of “In My Picks,” I’m highlighting 20 essential emergency products that will help keep you and your loved ones safe, prepared, and confident.

Why It’s Essential
Having a comprehensive first aid kit is the cornerstone of any emergency preparedness. This set includes a wide array of bandages, ointments, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, and more—enough to handle most minor injuries at home or on the go.

Key Features

  • Soft-sided, zippered case with clear plastic pockets for easy organization

  • Compact size, yet stocked with 299 pieces of first aid essentials

  • Ideal for home, car, and workplace

In My Picks Tip: Keep one kit in your main living area and another in your car trunk. You’ll be grateful for the backup if disaster strikes while you’re out.

Why It’s Essential
A reliable flashlight is indispensable during power outages or nighttime outdoor emergencies. This portable LED flashlight offers both brightness and longevity, ensuring you never fumble around in the dark.

Key Features

  • Compact and lightweight design (4.2 inches in length)

  • Up to 492 feet of beam distance

  • Zoomable feature for focused or wide beam

  • Military-grade aluminum construction, IPX4 water-resistant

In My Picks Tip: Store extra AAA batteries in a sealed bag alongside your flashlight to ensure you’re never caught short.

Why It’s Essential
When you need to cut, pry, saw, or open something in a pinch, a multitool becomes your best friend. This 13-in-1 kit features a large blade, pliers, screwdrivers, and more, all in one compact form.

Key Features

  • 3-inch blade for efficient cutting

  • Spring-action pliers and multiple screwdrivers

  • Sturdy stainless steel build with rust-proof coating

  • Safety locking design for added protection

In My Picks Tip: A good multitool saves space in your emergency kit, replacing the need for several separate tools.

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Why It’s Essential
If the power goes out and you need to start a fire or light a stove, stormproof matches are crucial. These can withstand wind and rain, and will even relight after being submerged in water.

Key Features

  • 25 windproof and waterproof matches

  • Each match burns up to 15 seconds

  • Waterproof ABS plastic case that floats

  • Replaceable striker on the exterior

In My Picks Tip: Keep an extra striker in a ziplock bag—you never know when you might need a backup.

5. Emergency Mylar Thermal Blankets (4-Pack)

Why It’s Essential
These compact, reflective blankets help retain up to 90% of body heat, making them lifesavers in cold or wet conditions. They’re great to have in the trunk of your car or stored in your home emergency kit.

Key Features

  • Individual packaging for easy storage

  • Windproof and waterproof

  • Reusable; reflect or retain heat

  • Numerous uses—from survival shelter to signaling device

In My Picks Tip: Slip one of these blankets into your backpack if you’re heading out on a hike.

Why It’s Essential
Traditional fire extinguishers can be messy and intimidating to operate. A fire blanket quickly smothers small flames by cutting off oxygen, and it’s simple enough for anyone to use in a crisis.

Key Features

  • Made of 100% fiberglass flame-retardant fabric

  • Easy to deploy—just pull out of the pouch and cover the flame

  • No chemical residue or mess

  • Designed for use in kitchens, grills, cars, and boats

In My Picks Tip: Hang one near your kitchen stove, and keep another close to your grill or fireplace.

Why It’s Essential
Communication is critical in an emergency. A reliable power bank keeps your devices charged so you can stay connected, call for help, or get important updates.

Key Features

  • 10,000mAh capacity for 1-2 full charges of most smartphones

  • USB-C port for both input and output

  • Compact and lightweight (8.6 oz)

  • Durable build to withstand drops up to 3.2 feet

In My Picks Tip: Check the power bank’s charge level monthly and recharge it fully to maintain optimal battery health.

Why It’s Essential
Good hygiene prevents the spread of infection—particularly important during a disaster when medical help may be delayed. Travel-size sanitizer bottles ensure cleanliness on the go.

Key Features

  • Kills 99.99% of common germs

  • Mild, moisturizing formula with no harsh ingredients

  • Infused with essential oils (Mandarin, Lavender, Mint)

  • Convenient 1 fl oz flip-cap bottles

In My Picks Tip: Keep a few bottles in different parts of your home so they’re easy to grab in a hurry.

Why It’s Essential
Emergency situations often limit access to fresh food. This 30-day meal kit provides a solid foundation for nutrition, requiring only water to prepare.

Key Features

  • Over 1,200 calories per day

  • 200 servings total for up to 30 days

  • Easy to prepare—just add water

  • Comes in a durable pail for storage

In My Picks Tip: Rotate your stored emergency food yearly to maintain the best flavor and nutrition.

Why It’s Essential
Clean drinking water is non-negotiable in any emergency. These individually sealed pouches have a 5-year shelf life and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Key Features

  • 4.225 oz per pouch

  • Airtight, leak-proof packaging

  • Purified via reverse osmosis

  • Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard

In My Picks Tip: Store enough pouches for at least 3 days per person (about 1 gallon of water per person per day).

Why It’s Essential
Staying informed via NOAA and AM/FM weather updates is vital. This radio also doubles as a power bank and has three charging methods—solar, crank, and AAA batteries.

Key Features

  • 7400mWh (2000mAh) power bank for charging small devices

  • Hand crank, solar panel, or AAA batteries

  • Built-in flashlight and 4-LED reading light

  • SOS alarm for emergency signaling

In My Picks Tip: Practice using the hand crank regularly so you know how to generate enough power in an emergency.

Why It’s Essential
From wildfire smoke to airborne pathogens, having N95 masks on hand is a straightforward way to protect your lungs.

Key Features

  • NIOSH approved for 95% filtration efficiency

  • Curved, low-profile design fits a variety of face shapes

  • Embossed top panel reduces fogging on glasses

  • Innovative chin tab for easy adjustments

In My Picks Tip: Store masks in a sealed plastic bag to keep them clean and dust-free.

Why It’s Essential
Headaches, stomach troubles, and allergies don’t disappear during an emergency. This variety pack covers common minor ailments.

Key Features

  • 37 individually wrapped medicine packets

  • TSA-friendly re-sealable bag

  • Includes pain relievers, allergy meds, motion sickness tablets, and more

  • Compact and lightweight

In My Picks Tip: Check expiration dates every six months, and replace any medications as needed.

Why It’s Essential
High-quality paracord can be a lifesaver. Use it to secure shelter, hang items, or even create makeshift splints in medical emergencies.

Key Features

  • 620 lb tensile strength

  • Patented MIL-STYLE design with 3 integrated survival strands (fishing line, utility wire, and waterproof tinder)

  • Durable in extreme weather

  • Veteran-owned brand committed to quality

In My Picks Tip: Practice tying a few basic knots (like the square knot or bowline) to maximize the paracord’s potential.

Why It’s Essential
When something needs quick sealing or patching up, duct tape is the hero of improvisation. This all-weather version withstands extreme conditions.

Key Features

  • Permanent butyl adhesive

  • UV and temperature resistant from -40°F to 200°F

  • Low tack but strongly adhesive

  • Perfect for plastic sheeting, tarps, and more

In My Picks Tip: Keep a small roll in your car—duct tape can temporarily fix a broken side mirror or patch a window in a pinch.

Why It’s Essential
Gloves protect you from contamination when administering first aid or handling messier situations. Vinyl is latex-free, making it suitable for most individuals.

Key Features

  • Powder-free, latex-free synthetic vinyl

  • Suitable for medical exams, cooking, and cleaning

  • Multiple sizes (S, M, L, XL)

  • Durable and single-use for easy disposal

In My Picks Tip: Stock multiple sizes so everyone in your household can slip on gloves quickly if needed.

17. First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Fire Extinguisher

Why It’s Essential
Small fires can escalate quickly. A rechargeable fire extinguisher lets you reuse it after a professional servicing—no need to buy a new one each time it’s discharged.

Key Features

  • UL rated 1-A:10-B:C for most common household fires

  • All-metal construction with commercial-grade valve and trigger

  • US Coast Guard–approved for marine use

  • Refillable after use

In My Picks Tip: Mount it where it’s easily accessible, like in the kitchen or near a garage door. Check the gauge monthly.

18. Emergency Whistles with Lanyard (2 Pack)

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Why It’s Essential
A loud whistle helps rescuers locate you if you’re trapped or lost. These plastic pealess whistles are durable and work in all weather.

Key Features

  • Double-tube design for a 120 dB sound

  • Pealess construction won’t freeze or jam

  • Reflective lanyard for high visibility

  • Lightweight ABS plastic build

In My Picks Tip: Practice a short sequence of blasts so family members know your specific distress signal.

Why It’s Essential
If you’re relying on canned goods, a dependable can opener is non-negotiable. This lidlifter design reduces sharp edges and keeps the lid from falling into the can.

Key Features

  • Lock-on technology automatically attaches to the lid

  • Hygienic—opener never contacts the food

  • Leaves no sharp edges after opening

  • Built-in ring-pull opener

In My Picks Tip: Keep an extra manual can opener in case one breaks—especially crucial when there’s no electricity.

Why It’s Essential
Trauma shears are excellent for cutting through bandages, clothing, or tough materials in emergencies. With surgical-grade stainless steel, these shears can handle almost anything.

Key Features

  • Stainless Steel 440 with non-stick coating

  • High-strength, ergonomic design

  • Durable rivets ensure long-lasting performance

  • Suitable for left-handed and right-handed users

In My Picks Tip: Store these shears with your first aid kit so they’re always on hand when treating wounds or removing clothing safely.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Being prepared isn’t about living in fear; it’s about confidence and peace of mind. With these 20 essential picks in your household emergency kit, you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s unexpected moments—whether it’s a minor cut, a wildfire evacuation, or a burst water pipe.

Ready to Build Your Kit?

  1. Start with the basics: a first aid kit, clean water supply, and a reliable flashlight.

  2. Add specialized items like a fire extinguisher, paracord, and emergency blankets for comprehensive coverage.

  3. Revisit and refresh your kit at least once a year—check expiration dates, replace old items, and update supplies as your household needs change.

Stay Tuned and Stay Safe
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