Life is often unpredictable, so it pays off to always be prepared for the unexpected. The best way you can do just that as a homeowner is to equip it with useful essentials.
The majority of modern houses rely almost entirely on grid electricity to function. To avoid not having access to electricity due to a prolonged blackout or a natural disaster, it might be a great idea to have a backup generator on hand. It is also important to keep at least one fire extinguisher in an easily accessible place inside the house.
Also, get a set of common tools and construction supplies to make routine repairs easier and more efficient. Additionally, do not forget to purchase a plunger or a drain auger to quickly unclog pipes without having to call professionals. Finally, make sure that you have a well-stocked medical cabinet for emergency situations.
In case you want to know more about the things listed above, read on! Here is a list of some of the most crucial things one can have in a home.
A Backup Generator
Most homes rely on electricity to function, and even a short power outage can cause significant inconvenience. So, if you live in an area with frequent blackouts or if you want to be fully prepared for a natural disaster, get a backup generator.
You have many different types of power generators to choose from, ranging from electricity-powered generators to ones powered by natural gas and propane. The popular ones are typically powered by gasoline, as gasoline is easier to store and universally available. In the worst-case scenario, you can simply siphon gasoline from a car and use it to power the generator.
While a backup generator is an important tool to have in any household (here you can find a list of the best emergency generators), it is also crucial that you know how to use it properly. Be sure to read the user manual carefully before attempting to operate the device. Also, make sure that you keep the generator in a safe place where children and pets will not be able to reach it.
Fire Extinguishers
Fires are quite common and can cause catastrophic damage if not promptly dealt with. To minimize the risk of a fire damaging your house, get at least one fire extinguisher and place it in an easily accessible place inside the house.
To make sure that your fire extinguishers are always ready to use, perform regular maintenance checks. At least once a month, check the pressure gauge and make sure that the needle is within the green zone. Also, inspect the exterior of the device for any signs of damage.
Common Tools and Construction Supplies
If you want to make routine repairs and maintenance tasks easier, get a set of common tools and construction supplies. For example, get a hammer, screws, nails, and saws to make small repairs around the house. It is also important to get safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and face masks so that you can stay protected from injuries while working on any repairs.
If you are not sure about what tools you need, simply ask for advice online on various online discussion boards, ask a friend or a family member for advice, or simply let the shop assistant know the type of repairs that you plan on making.
Drain Auger or Plunger
Clogged drains are one of the most common problems in modern households. To quickly unclog any pipes without having to call professionals, get a drain auger or a plunger. Such devices can be used to clear blockages in both kitchen and bathroom sinks, as well as bathtubs and showers.
Drain augers work by forcing the blockage to move through the pipes. To use a drain auger, insert the device into the drain and start cranking the handle. Plungers work in a similar manner, but are much easier to use as you do not need to operate any mechanical parts. On the other hand, a simple plunger might be less effective, as it relies on air pressure alone.
Medical Cabinet
Last but not least, it is important to have a well-stocked medical cabinet at home. The most important items to have in such a cabinet are pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as bandages and disinfectants. If someone in the family suffers from allergies or asthma, make sure you also have antihistamines and inhalers at hand, too.
It is also a good idea to place a first aid kit in the garage or in any other, easily-accessible place inside the house. That way, you will not have to search for things like bandages or disinfectant in case of an emergency.
In Conclusion
Life is often unpredictable, so it pays off to always be prepared for the unexpected. The best way in which you can stay ready for sudden emergencies as a homeowner is by equipping your house with useful essentials.
To avoid not having access to electricity during a prolonged blackout or a natural disaster, it might be a good idea to have a backup generator on hand. It is also important to keep a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible part of the house.
Also, get a set of common tools and construction supplies to make routine repairs easier and more efficient, as well as a plunger or a drain auger to quickly unclog any pipes without having to call professionals.
Finally, make sure that you have a well-stocked medical cabinet for emergency situations. Hopefully, the tips listed above will help you make your household more prepared for anything that life might throw at it. Good luck!
