Natural disasters such as typhoons and floods are prevalent in many regions, so being prepared with the appropriate tools can protect you and your loved ones. No one can predict when natural disasters can occur, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry! From flashlights to light your way to mobile phones to stay in contact, we’ll go over four types of battery-powered tools you need in your disaster response kit, along with some other life-saving items you should have that don’t require batteries. Read on to learn how to be prepared for these emergency situations.
1. Emergency Lighting
During a natural disaster, traditional lighting sources such as indoor lights and streetlamps may malfunction or be damaged, so it’s always good to have backup sources of emergency lighting handy such as flashlights, torches and headlamps. For example, if there’s a power outage and you need to conserve your mobile phone’s battery, you could use a flashlight to check the fuse box, or in a more severe situation, make your way to safety through the dark. Most flashlights use NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) or Li-ion (lithium-ion) rechargeable batteries but do make sure to check which types of batteries your flashlight or headlamp uses. To save yourself the trouble of having to look for compatible batteries, why not check out our selection of flashlights and headlamps?
2. Power Sources
Of course, all the battery-powered tools we’ve just talked about are completely useless without the batteries that power them! That’s why you should always have a set of spare batteries, a battery charger or charging dock to keep your rechargeable batteries charged, and a power bank handy to keep your phone charged up on the go.
3. Communication Devices
During emergencies, we need communication devices to stay in contact with loved ones as well as to reach out to emergency services for help. Mobile phones and two-way radios, also known as walkie-talkies, are perfect for this purpose. Almost everyone uses mobile phones nowadays, and most modern phones use Li-ion or Li-Po (lithium-polymer) batteries. However, if your phone is damaged during a disaster or simply out of power, walkie-talkies can help you and those with you stay connected as you navigate through a disaster zone, as they operate on radio frequencies instead of relying on cellular networks or other communication infrastructure that may be compromised during a disaster. Most walkie-talkies use either Li-ion or NiMH batteries so make sure to keep some in stock!
4. Portable Fans
Similarly, portable fans can be useful during power outages when indoor ceiling fans and air-conditioning are out of commission, and even in daily life during those sweltering hot summer days to help keep us cool and prevent heatstroke. Generally, most portable fans use lithium-ion rechargeable batteries as they provide longer battery life and more power, but some models use AAA alkaline or NiMH batteries.
5. Other Non-Battery Items
Now that we’ve covered the battery-powered tools we need, you may be wondering what else you need in a disaster kit, so let’s go over some of the other essential items you need. These items include medical supplies and first aid kits in case someone gets injured, life jackets to prepare for floods, blankets and extra clothing to keep warm, as well as waterproof plastic covers and food containers to prevent food from spoiling.
None of us can know for sure when natural disasters will occur, so it’s important to always stay prepared. By including these battery-powered essential items in your disaster response kit, you’re being proactive in getting ready to protect your loved ones during emergencies. Keep you and your family safe by taking a look at our range of rechargeable batteries and other power solutions here at GP Batteries today!
