Emergency Supplies to Have in Case of a Tornado

With tornado season beginning to take shape, consumers should be prepared for the threat of widespread power outages and potential property damage, according to Batteries Plus, which has a Roswell store.

The local store is encouraging residents to take appropriate action now by stocking up on essential preparation and safety items to allow them to out-weather the spring tornado season. 

"Emergency preparedness kits should be regularly evaluated and updated, to ensure that should the worst of a storm hit, the household isn’t left without any source of power, lighting or communication methods," said Russ Reynolds, CEO of Batteries Plus. "We recommend that consumers stock up on a variety of products in bulk that will not only maximize the battery life of items like flashlights and charging stations, but will also keep communication lines open as long as possible so they can stay informed on breaking storm announcements and communication from authorities."

Here are the recommended items you should stock up on:

• Power Inverters – If without electricity for prolonged periods of time and your only power source is your car, power inverters will allow you to use a car’s battery to run a variety of electronic devices, including phones, laptops, cameras and other appliances.
• Flashlights – As a general rule of thumb, you should have one flashlight per person in your household. Since flashlights use different types of light bulbs and batteries, make sure you stock up on the types you might run out of during long power outages, or consider purchasing a crank light with long-lasting LED light bulbs.
• Push Button Lights – These battery-powered devices provide light around the home without relying on plugs for power; just make sure you stock up on plenty of backup batteries.
• Candles – Battery powered candles are a safe option to provide lighting in the home; additionally, candles with matches can be a helpful back-up lighting source to prolong the life of battery powered options.
• Backup Chargers for Mobile Devices – A protective case with an external battery pack can help keep a smartphone juiced up longer than its normal battery life. Additionally, car chargers are crucial for keeping communication lines open when the electricity is out.
• Alkaline Batteries – Stock up on two to three sets of backup batteries, including AA, AAA, C, D and 9 volt, for every device that requires a charge.
• Radios & Transistors – A battery-powered, two-way or hand crank radio, plus a NOAA weather radio with tone alert are essential for staying informed about weather updates and evacuation instructions that might be announced by local authorities.
• Other essentials – Households should stock up on one gallon of water per person, per day, for three to six days. Additionally, ensure you have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods such as canned goods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Make sure to have a manual can opener and eating utensils on hand. A first aid kit, thermal blankets, and extra toiletry/hygiene items are also important items for any preparedness kit.

For more information about Batteries Plus, visit the Batteries Plus website.