A natural disaster, or just a particularly nasty storm, can put you and your family in dire straits for a substantial period. Whether it’s the possible end of the world – or just a bomb cyclone – it’s essential to be prepared with provisions and the proper tools.

A sunlight-heated oven, a water-powered flashlight, and several other devices could be a difference maker when modern conveniences fail.

When an emergency occurs, you want to ensure your family is ready and prepared to minimize disruptions to your way of life. Have these simple household items on hand should a sudden power outage occur and last for a hefty period.

A Working Flashlight

A standard flashlight with charged or fresh batteries should be stored in a closet or pantry in case a blackout occurs. Have additional packs of all battery sizes on hand just in case.

Another smart option is investing in light sources that don’t run on batteries. This flashlight comes with a fuel cell that activates when dipped into any water for ten seconds. One submersion into the water can provide 100 continuous hours of light.

Solar and hand crank powered flashlights need no batteries and are perfect for emergencies, power outages or anytime you need a light source.

Consider Other Means of Cooking

When the power goes out, so does your electric stove. Having a backup cooking plan is essential. Luckily, there are some solutions, the most common being a propane grill, which many families already have in the backyard.

Other possibilities include sun ovens, which cook using natural sunlight, or Dutch ovens, which can cook a full family meal using charcoal briquettes. An InStove is another alternative that uses a handful of sticks to cook an entire meal during an emergency situation.

Food and Water

In case of an emergency, FEMA recommends storing enough food and water for at least two weeks. Consider non-perishable items that require no refrigeration or special preparation. For water, store at least one gallon per person for each day. For example, a family of four planning for a two-week emergency would need about 56 gallons of water for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene.

More Helpful Tips in A Power Outage

• Find alternative charging methods for your phone or devices, like solar chargers, that don’t require power, and remember to charge all cell phones and any battery powered devices before the pending storm.
• Find alternative charging methods for your phone or devices, like solar chargers, that don’t require power, and remember to charge all cell phones and any battery powered devices before the pending storm.
• Purchase bags of ice or freeze water-filled plastic containers to keep food cold during a temporary power outage.
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual release lever and how to operate it in case you need to leave the house for any reason.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting as candles can often cause fires.
• Never use the oven as a source of heat or light.
• Disconnect appliances and computers in case of a momentary power surge that may damage devices.
•  When purchasing a generator for your home, consult with an electrician before installing.

For more tips on emergency preparedness, consult Ready.gov or the official FEMA website.