Choose the right gear

Water storage

COMPARE

• Food-grade, BPA-free containers
• Sizes you can lift (5-7 gal) plus larger drums if space allows
• Opaque to limit algae
• Spigot or pump for drums

SAFETY

• Store away from chemicals, heat and direct sun
• Rotate stored tap water about every 6 months

Water filters & purification

COMPARE

• Independent test certification (e.g. NSF/ANSI standards) for what it removes
• Flow rate and filter life in gallons
• Gravity, pump or straw style for your use

SAFETY

• Most filters do not remove chemicals or viruses unless stated
• Follow official boil-water notices

Emergency food

COMPARE

• Foods your household already eats
• Long shelf life and clear expiration dates
• Calories and servings per package
• Dietary restrictions and allergies

SAFETY

• Rotate stock; record expiration dates in Inventory

First-aid kits

COMPARE

• Contents list matches your household size
• Room for personal medications
• Durable, labeled case

SAFETY

• Check expiration dates on medications and ointments

Flashlights & lanterns

COMPARE

• LED with multiple brightness modes
• Common battery type you already stock
• Headlamps for hands-free use

SAFETY

• Use instead of candles to reduce fire risk

Portable power stations

COMPARE

• Capacity in watt-hours (Wh), use the Power calculator
• Output wattage and outlet types
• Solar input support

SAFETY

• Check device manual for indoor use and ventilation
• Prioritize medical devices

Solar panels

COMPARE

• Wattage matched to your power station input
• Portable/foldable vs. fixed
• Connector compatibility

SAFETY

• Real output is lower than rated, plan conservatively

Generators

COMPARE

• Running vs. starting watts
• Fuel type and runtime
• CO auto-shutoff feature

SAFETY

• Outdoors only, 20+ ft from doors and windows; never in a garage
• Install battery CO alarms
• Use transfer switch by a licensed electrician to connect to home wiring

NOAA weather radios

COMPARE

• SAME alert programming for your county
• Battery backup / hand-crank / solar

SAFETY

• Test monthly

Two-way radios

COMPARE

• FRS (no license) vs. GMRS (license)
• Rechargeable with spare batteries
• Privacy codes

SAFETY

• GMRS requires an FCC license

Satellite communication

COMPARE

• Two-way messaging vs. SOS-only
• Subscription cost and coverage

SAFETY

• Practice sending a test message

Emergency blankets & shelter

COMPARE

• Reflective emergency blankets
• Sleeping bags rated for your climate
• Shade options for Arizona heat

Fire safety

COMPARE

• Multi-purpose (ABC) extinguishers
• Smoke and CO alarms (interconnected if possible)
• Escape ladders for upper floors

SAFETY

• Test alarms monthly; replace per manufacturer

Home security

COMPARE

• Deadbolts and door reinforcement
• Motion lighting
• Cameras with local storage/battery backup

SAFETY

• Focus on deterrence and avoiding confrontation

Vehicle emergency supplies

COMPARE

• Jump starter
• Tire inflator
• Water and sunshade for heat

SAFETY

• Keep tank at least half full

Storage containers

COMPARE

• Stackable, labeled bins
• Waterproof document pouch
• Go-bag backpacks

Medical backup supplies

COMPARE

• Backup power for medical devices
• Cooler packs for refrigerated medications
• Spare glasses, hearing aid batteries

SAFETY

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist about emergency supplies of prescriptions