How to Choose the Perfect Emergency Radio

Including an emergency radio in your disaster survival kit is a common piece of advice. However, not many people know how to pick out a reliable emergency radio that’s actually going to help them get through a crisis. Not all radios are made equally, and when you’re in the midst of an emergency without power – whether you’re at home or traveling – your survival may depend on the gear you’ve stocked up on. We’ve come up with some radio tips to help you choose the perfect emergency radio for you.

What Type of Radio Should You Get?

When it comes to emergency radios, you first and foremost need a self-powered radio that will deliver NOAA alerts. The primary use of your emergency radio will most likely be to stay informed about the outside world. A standalone AM/FM receiver allows you to tune into any local FM stations that are still broadcasting and keep up with NOAA alerts, relief instructions and more information that is sent via AM radio. During severe emergencies, FM stations are not likely to be available, so having a radio that broadcasts AM is extremely important. If you want to be able to communicate with others via your radio, you’ll need a two-way radio; however, most people do fine with a standalone receiver.

Battery-operated radios are often the go-to option for new radio buyers; however, it’s ideal that you find a radio that is supported by multiple power sources. An AC adapter is perfect when you have power. Solar and hand-crank radios are a better option for traveling or as a backup for when the power goes out. Remember: if your radio has extra features, the power will drain faster.

What Size Radio Should You Get?

For your at-home emergency stock, it’s a good idea to purchase a large radio with special features of your choice (see below) and one small radio in case you need to relocate. For your car, office, boat or cabin, it’s recommended you keep a smaller radio on hand that you can continue to travel with when necessary.

What Makes an Emergency Radio the Best?

As discussed, the best emergency radios broadcast both FM and AM and can run without electricity. Solar and hand-crank radios are always a great option. Battery-powered radios also make great emergency devices, as long as you remember to stock up on extra batteries. However, what makes some radios stand out more than others is the additional features they come with. Some of our favorite options include:

• A Solar/Hand Crank Radio With a Flashlight
• A Solar/Hand Crank Radio With a Flashlight, Whistle & More
• A Battery Powered Radio With Voice Alerts & Flashing LED Warnings

Finally, you should consider searching for radios that offer SAME – Specific Alert Message Encoding. SAME allows you to receive warnings for specific areas, so you can be notified when there is a hurricane, tornado or another natural disaster headed your way.

For a wide variety of the best emergency weather radios, search no further than SOS Survival Products. If you’re still wondering which radio is right for you, give the experts at SOS a call! We’d be happy to help you find the best emergency radio for you.

Things You Should Have in Your Car for Emergencies

Your engine won’t start, your spare tire blows out, you run out of gas, you get stuck in the mud… car trouble tends to be one of those things where people think, ‘that won’t happen to me’… - until it does. Unfortunately, vehicle breakdowns happen often. Sometimes you may be at home or around people who can help; other times you may not. When disaster does strike, having a roadside emergency car kit can help you get back on the road faster, or at least stay comfortable while you wait.

Car Repair Essentials

With the right equipment and know-how, certain car troubles can be fixed on the spot. Some of the most important repair and maintenance items for you to keep in your emergency car kit include:

• Reflective Warning Triangles – When you’re trying to change a flat on the freeway or jump a car in the middle of a lane, it can be a dangerous process. Bright, reflective warning triangles can be placed behind your car to warn oncoming traffic of the hazard ahead.
• Spare Tire – You should regularly check to make sure your spare is in good condition and also carry a tire jack and tire iron so you can change the tire without assistance.
• Jumper Cables – Familiarize yourself with your engine so you know how to jump your car before the battery dies. You can also keep an emergency battery booster in your car so you can jump the car without waiting for someone to stop and help.
• Duct Tape – Because duct tape can almost always help!

Safety & Survival Essentials

Sometimes there’s just no fixing your car where it’s at. When that happens, you want to be as prepared as possible in case you are far from help or inclement weather prevents help from reaching you. Creating your own car survival kit allows you to ensure your safety supplies include the necessities, such as:

• A First Aid Kit – Whether you’re traveling across the country or just to work, there’s no telling when an accident will occur. Keeping a first aid kit in your car allows you to help treat both yourself and others while assistance is still on the way.
• A Flashlight – Handy for both car trouble and medical emergencies, flashlights (and extra batteries) are essential for any emergency car kit.
• A Multipurpose Tool – Small, portable multi-tools can be useful in a myriad of situations.
• Water Bottles & Food – Drinking water is one of the most important items you should stock up on. Nonperishable food is also essential to keep in your kit – energy bars, protein bars and MREs are ideal for situations where you may be stuck for an extended period of time.
• A Seat Belt Cutter & Window Breaker – Keep it in your glove compartment - not the trunk. This tool can mean the difference between life and death when you or loved ones are trapped in a car after an accident.
• A Battery Operated Radio
• An Ice Scraper

Comfort Items

In addition to emergency essentials, it’s a good idea to also keep some items on hand that will keep you comfortable if and when you get stranded:

• Tissues & Paper Towels
• A Warm Blanket and/or Emergency Blankets
• Car Phone Charger
• Change of Clothes
• Rain Poncho

Remember, the best way to survive emergency situations is to be prepared before disaster strikes. When you’re starting your own emergency car kit or need refill supplies for your kit, look no further than SOS Survival Products. If you have questions about what else you need to complete your car survival kit, feel free to reach out to the experts! We’re always happy to help.