As winter sweeps the US, what to include in a winter emergency kit

Authorities are warning people to prepare for outages, tricky driving conditions, travel delays and more as winter weather sweeps across most of the US, with current and incoming Arctic blasts and prolonged cold that could cause serious problems. The article says technology can make a difference and lists home-kit essentials such as a power bank and cables, LED flashlight, waterproof bags for devices, a fire extinguisher, long-life spare batteries, warm hats and gloves, and emergency food (including for pets).

Nice-to-have items include a power station, a gas generator (the article notes these come "with a load of dangers and caveats"), an emergency radio, a multitool, a USB heated blanket (described as very warm, not needing mains power and posing no fire risk), and offline entertainment.

For a car kit the piece recommends a weatherproof power bank and cables, an in-car charger, a jump starter, LED road flare and flashlight, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, emergency mylar thermal blankets, warm hats and gloves, de-icer and scraper, and snacks. Optional extras listed include a multitool, tire inflator, camp meals, an SOS satellite beacon, spare warm clothes and entertainment for children.

The article stresses practicing with and learning your gear before an emergency to avoid mistakes and injuries, and advises downloading and printing manuals.

Key Topics

Tech, Power Bank, Us, Arctic Blasts, Power Station, Gas Generator