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Good, Better & Best Emergency Preparedness & Survival Essentials

Our customers often ask us for recommendations, particularly when it comes to the basics of emergency preparation. We believe that everyone can and should be adequately equipped to handle the unexpected, and that proper preparation can start with just a few essential items.
We offer a wide range of emergency supplies at various price points. Here's what should be on your list:

Drinking Water Preparation

Good:
Datrex Drinking Water Foil Pouches

Water is essential for life. When preparing for the worst, stock water first and foremost. Datrex drinking pouches contain just over four ounces of water per serving. Each portioned package of water has a five-year shelf life and is Coast Guard approved for safety. Keep these affordable water pouches in your home, car or cabin in the event that other sources of water are not available.

Better:
Water Purification Tablets

If water is available but isn't safe to drink, these affordable tablets are a must. Packaged drinking water will eventually run out in a large-scale disaster, and if you're preparing for the worst, make sure you stock these tablets to treat water when water treatment plants aren't.
These tablets are also pragmatic in camping and hiking scenarios where clean drinking water may become scarce. 
Treat up to 25 quarts of water against giardia and most other microorganisms.


Best:
Rain Collection Barrel

In an emergency, water may be difficult to come by. A true survivalist knows that using the resources that are naturally available are a best bet for long-term sustainability. If a disaster turns into a nationwide or a global crisis, running water will likely be an uncertain commodity. Collecting runoff in a barrel during a rainfall will allow you peace of mind during a crisis.
During a heavy rainfall, you'll be able to collect up to 600 gallons of water with the proper equipment. A functioning gutter or downspout will funnel water to your storage containers, while a filter on top keeps out leaves and debris. Keeping wildlife including birds and lizards out of your water will prevent collected water from becoming contaminated.

Fire Protection

Good:
ABC Fire Extinguisher

Every home should have one ABC fire extinguisher in every major room of the house, including the bedrooms and the kitchen. An ABC extinguisher can tackle all three classes of the most common household fires, which is important since only one class of fire can be tackled using water. Fires fueled by grease, gasoline or electrical equipment cannot and should not be quenched with water, making an ABC extinguisher the only safe solution.


An ABC extinguisher uses monoammonium phosphate, which won’t conduct electricity or scatter grease fires further. These fire extinguishers meet nationally recognized standards for safety and come with a 10-year warranty.



Better:
10-Year Ionization Smoke Alarm

In addition to a fire extinguisher, every home should have a functioning alarm system to help you and your family detect and escape fires before they burn out of control. An ionization smoke alarm is the most affordable smoke detector option on the market, and should be installed in every major room of the house.
First Alert's 10-year alarm contains a lithium battery that's designed to last 10 years without maintenance. Test your alarm once every six months to ensure it's functioning properly.


Best:
10-Year Photoelectric Smoke & Co2 Combination Alarm

Since most deaths from fires occur due to smoke inhalation, installing the right kind of smoke detector is of the utmost importance. A photoelectric fire alarm such as this First Alert alarm detects smoke using a light sensor. This means that when smoke particles scatter the light inside its chamber, an alarm immediately goes off.
Most homes contain ionization detectors, which are cheaper to install and therefore more popular. These types of detectors respond to smoke when particles disrupt the flow of ions in its chamber.
Both types of smoke alarms work well in high-heat, fast-flame fires, however, when it comes to the more common smouldering fires that produce the kind of smoke that kills, an ionization detector falls behind.
Keep your family safe day and night with a combination alert that sounds as soon as a danger is present.

Emergency Communication

Good:
NOAA Emergency Crank Radio with Flashlight

When other modes of communication fail, Midland’s hand-crank radio will allow you to stay up to date on important weather and emergency information in real time. This radio receives alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and can additionally be used to receive AM and FM radio signals.
To send messages, this radio offers a built in Morse Code beacon, which can be activated to flash a continuous SOS signal.


Better:
Midland Two-Way Radios - 22 Channel

These short-range walkie talkies can connect with other FRS or GMRS two-way radios via 22 channels. Use the channel scan to check for activity during an emergency, or communicate freely with your family or response team.
Each walkie talkie includes a rechargeable power pack. Four AAA batteries can be used to back up power for longer usage when traditional power sources aren't available.
Connect easily and effectively during all types of events. These walkie talkies remove background noise, offer call alerts and use a roger beep to maximize communication.

Best:
Midland GMRS 50 Channel Radios

Get even more out of your walkie talkie with these radios.
A clear battery indicator lets you know when you can talk freely and when it's time to conserve power. Each radio comes with one rechargeable battery pack, which can be backed up with four AA batteries. Each battery pack is designed to provide up to 12 hours of life.
With a clear communication range of up to 36 miles, these radios offer a safe and affordable solution for a wide range of applications. Each radio features 50 GMRS channels and 28 channels with pre-programmed privacy codes.
Keep up with weather alerts and important emergency news with the built in Weather Scan feature, which finds and broadcasts your nearest NOAA station.

Emergency Kits

Good:
1-Person Fanny Pack Kit

Stocking an emergency kit is a quick, easy and affordable way to take charge of your preparedness and planning. A fanny pack kit contains several convenient items that everyone should keep on hand.
This kit is designed to sustain one person for three days in the event of a sudden emergency. In addition to a 2,400-calorie food bar and 25 ounces of water, the kit also contains one emergency blanket and a range of first aid essentials such as alcohol wipes and non-aspirin pain killers.
Supplement this kit with additional water pouches to ensure you can stay adequately hydrated longer.


Better:
Individual Auto/Emergency Survival Kit

A more robust version of the fanny pack, this auto emergency kit contains everything that's already included in our basic pack, plus a few other extras. In addition, you'll get important essentials such as a flashlight and emergency radio. Everything is contained in a convenient nylon over-the-shoulder bag. Keep it in the trunk of your car in the event you'll become trapped or stranded. Supplement this kit with additional items such as jumper cables to complete your safety kit for the road.
Check out our road trip blog for a complete list of traveling tips.



Best:
1-Person Deluxe Emergency Survival Kit

This affordable pack contains everything you'll need for the first 72 hours of survival. Each Deluxe kit contains 3,600 calories and 76 ounces of clean drinking water. In addition to a variety of first aid products such as alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointments and bandages, this kit also contains waste bags, light sticks, rain gear, gloves, a utility knife and more. We've thought of everything when preparing this emergency kit for you.
The Deluxe kit includes everything you'll need to sustain one person for three days, from hydration to items for proper warmth and visibility. Stow it in your car, at home or at your desk at work.

Disaster Preparation for Everyone

September is National Preparedness Month, which makes this the perfect time to review your emergency plans. Even if you live in an area that is not commonly struck by natural disasters, it's still crucial that you always take a proactive approach to protecting yourself and your family. After all, the number of worldwide natural disasters has risen from less than 100 annually to approximately 400 per year during the past four decades. This means that everyone has an increased risk, regardless of where you live.
Fortunately, there are many steps you can take that will greatly reduce your odds of suffering from a personal tragedy during a natural disaster.

The Importance of Making a Plan and What To Include

According to FEMA, 80 percent of U.S. residents live within a county that was hit by a natural disaster within the past decade. Despite this, fewer than 40 percent of these households have put together an emergency plan.

Emergency Plan Steps:

1. Gather Necessary Supplies

Pack a change of clothes for everyone, spare medication, flashlights and batteries, nonperishable

food, fresh water, some cash and copies of your identification, insurance policy and any other relevant documentation. If you have a pet, be sure to pack food and water for them, along with leashes and bowls. These supplies should be packed and ready to go in easy to grab backpacks.

Be sure to rotate the food and water so that it will still be fresh when needed. A satellite phone and radio will also be useful, along with paper maps of your area. You may want to download emergency weather apps.

2. Plan Your Evacuation Route

Many areas have designated evacuation routes. Familiarize yourself with them, and also make sure to scout out alternative options. Whenever possible, leave immediately so that you can get ahead of the inevitable traffic jam.

3. Assign a Meeting Place

It's important to assign a family meeting place in case you get separated. Make sure everyone knows how to get there, and select a backup spot in case the first one isn't accessible.

4. Take First Aid and CPR Classes

You cannot rely on medical assistance to reach you quickly during an emergency. Taking a first aid and CPR class will give you a better chance of survival.

5. Practice for an Emergency

The American Red Cross recommends practicing all practical aspects of your emergency plan. This includes driving the emergency route, meeting family at the assigned gathering spot and getting out of the house in a quick, orderly manner. Every family should do this at least once per year, but you may want to start doing it quarterly if your children are too young to retain a lot of details.



How to Deal with Common Natural Disasters

Now that you understand the basics of putting together an emergency plan, let's take a closer look at a few common natural disaster scenarios.

Fire

More than 3,500 Americans perished in a fire in 2016. To cut your risk dramatically, be sure to practice what to do if the smoke detectors go off. You can also take important preventative steps, including:

• Never leave candles unattended.
• Always use a timer when cooking.
• Unplug hot curling irons and other similar items.
• Keep your chimney clean at all times.
• Only use your fireplace if you understand exactly how it works and can monitor the fire.
• Install smoke detectors and sprinklers; make sure to test these systems annually.
• Keep all flammables away from the stove.

You should also make sure every family member knows how to use a fire extinguisher, call 911 and escape the home. If you have upper levels, place a window ladder in each applicable room. Include your pets in your escape plan, and consider placing a 'pet inside' sticker on your windows to help firefighters.


Flooding

In 2015, 176 Americans died in a flood. There's not a lot you can do to prevent a flood, but you can implement a property protection plan.

• Waterproof your basement and elevate all essential utility components.
• Keep your downspouts and gutters clear of debris.
• Obtain a backup battery-powered sump pump.
• Purchase sand bags.
• Get flood insurance.

It's best to evacuate when a serious flood is imminent instead of waiting to see what happens. Go to higher ground or a designated shelter. Take your emergency supplies with you and be prepared for at least 72 hours away from your home. If you get stuck in a flood, never drive on a water-covered road; turn around, don’t drown. Go to the highest area in your home until the water recedes.


Earthquake

Experts estimate that 40 California residents die annually in an earthquake. The best way to prepare is to make your home as safe as possible.

• Keep beds away from windows.
• Tether appliances and bookshelves to the wall.
• Use latches on all cabinets.
• Buy emergency plug-in lights.
• Never place glass objects where they could easily fall.
• Get your home and chimney inspected for earthquake-readiness.

When an earthquake strikes, remember to do three key things: Drop, cover and hold on. Run preparedness drills with your family to ensure you're all aware how to quickly drop to your knees, cover up your head and neck and then move underneath a sturdy table. Waiting out the earthquake in that position will give you the best odds of survival. If you have to drive after the earthquake, be alert for aftershocks and damaged roads.





Power Outages

Severe weather can cause power outages, which may lead to issues with heat stroke, hypothermia, spoiled food and unsafe drinking water. To make your home safer during a power outage, you can do a few simple things:

• Keep enough fresh water and non-perishable food on hand for 72 hours.
• Invest in a generator.
• Use your grill to cook.
• Wear light-colored clothing to reduce the risk of heat stroke.
• Wear several layers and wrap up in blankets to avoid hypothermia.
• Have lots of batteries and flashlights available.

If possible, go to an area that has power until electricity is restored to your home. Remember to never touch any downed power lines, and don't drive through any roads that are covered with water. Most power outages are caused by severe weather, so it's also critical to keep an eye on weakened trees and other debris that could fall or get in your way while you evacuate.

With a bit of planning and regular emergency drills, you and your family can be prepared for any type of natural disaster. Don't wait; put your emergency kit and other plan specifics in place today!

SOS Survival Products Awards

Welcome to the 2018 SOS Product Awards! We think it's about time that some of our products get the recognition they deserve, so we've selected a few of our favorites (and yours) to ensure everyone gets a chance to see what all the buzz is all about. Without further ado, we present...

Best Visual Effects!

The Streamlight Strion features three easy-to-control brightness settings and one strobe functionality.

To ensure your safety, whether you're stranded roadside or use your flashlight for tactical purposes, the LEDs on this torch produce 500 lumens on the high setting, the equivalent of a 33-watt incandescent lightbulb. On this setting, the Streamlight Strion is capable of running for one continuous hour. Its low setting produces a comfortable 125 lumens and will provide you with light for more than three hours.
Because the torch is rechargeable, you'll never need to worry about stocking up on batteries or finding them in the dark. The Strion recharges within just three hours.
This bright flashlight earns its spot as number one in the visual effects category because of its lumens. A lumen is a measurement of total visible light. When the Strion's lumens are concentrated into a tight beam, they produce 10,000 candela reaching up to 200 meters.
For a more concentrated beam, try the Streamlight SL-20L. This rechargeable flashlight can't compete with the Strion in terms of lumens, but with an astonishing 60,000 candela at its disposal, its beam reaches 490 meters!

Not sure how lumens and candela differ?

A lumen is a unit of measurement used to describe how much visible light is produced by a light source such as a flashlight or a lightbulb. Because light scatters, a flashlight's lumens aren't necessarily indicative of how far its light will reach.
A candela is a unit of measurement that describes how far away you can be from a light source and still see it. The more concentrated a beam of light it, the more candela, or candlepower, it will have.

Best Design!

At SOS Survival Products, we're all about functional living, preparation and survival. We know that

in the event of an emergency, the more minimal your dependence on outside resources, the better your chances of success. Check out our blog about collecting rainwater here.
The Goal Zero Yeti 150 Solar Generator is an alternative solution to small gas-powered generators. This unit is perfect for the home or for camping trips. The Yeti stores 150 watt hours of power, and can be charged using an AC wall adapter or solar panels.  This gas-free, noise-free and fume-free power generator is ideal for smaller devices such as lights, cooling fans, phones and laptops. An indicator display lets you know how much time and power is left at all times.
With two USB, one 12V and one AC outputs, it's easy and convenient to plug in several devices at one time.  Power it up in preparation for a storm to keep all of your electronic devices readily charged during an outage. This unit is incredibly easy to use, easy to setup and easy to understand.


Best Sound!

During an emergency or extreme weather event, it's critical to stay informed. These days, most of us largely rely on our phones, computers or televisions to stay up to date on weather alerts and emergency broadcast.
The Midland ER200 radio is there for you when other sources of communication fail. During power outages, when your stock of batteries has unexpectedly been emptied or when cell towers are overwhelmed, this hand-crank NOAA radio will be by your side.
The Midland includes a powerful three-setting flashlight, AM/FM radio, NOAA Weather Alert Radio, USB and headphone jacks and an SOS beacon which uses Morse code to signal for emergency assistance. Although it contains a rechargeable battery and a small solar panel, it is also fully functional when cranked by hand. Attach it to a larger solar panel for quicker and more efficient charging in an emergency situation.


Most Original!

Sometimes originality comes in small, simple packages. The LuminAID PackLite lantern started out as a project designed to provide light to earthquake victims in Haiti. Today, LuminAID accompanies hikers, backpackers and emergency aid workers alike.
This uniquely powerful little lantern has come a long way since 2010. Designed to fold flat for easy and convenient storage, it features five brightness settings, adjustable straps and a microUSB charge port. As always, the LuminAID lantern remains 100 percent waterproof. On its highest setting, it puts out an impressive 75 lumens.





Lead Product!

Emergency planning starts with just a few essentials. Although we rely heavily on a variety of basics including food and proper shelter, we can't survive long without water. Up to 60 percent of the human adult body consists of water, powering our cells, lubricating our joints, regulating body temperature, converting food to energy and more. We are so reliant on water, that it only makes sense that our most-ever purchased product is, well, water.
We carry a variety of water pouches, water containers, water collection barrels and water purifiers. To start, we recommend every household contain an absolute minimum of 25 ounces of clean emergency drinking water for every person. Just six single packages will be enough for this. These pouches are tough and will store safely for up to five years, so keep them in your emergency pack, in your car, your camping gear or at your desk at work.
Looking for a bit more? A kit such as this provides the most basic essentials for only $8! This three-day kit contains six single Datrex drinking water pouches, one emergency blanket and a 2,400-calorie food bar.





Best Overall!

Emergency planning encompasses a variety of aspects. Creating an emergency plan and stocking up on the right products can turn a disaster around into a success. If you're not sure quite where to start, or your funds are limited, we recommend one of our kits. The two-person Deluxe kit is designed to offer the biggest bang for your buck, with products including water, emergency lighting, emergency blankets, rain ponchos and a wide range of first aid products all in one place. Everything is neatly contained in a convenient Everest backpack and is designed to provide for two people for three days.
Prepping for an emergency can become an involved process. While it's important to consider your ultimate goal when putting your emergency prep plan into action, we recommend beginning with the basics: a plan, water, shelter, first aid and emergency communication. It takes just a few products to provide some initial peace of mind in an emergency situation. From there, the sky's the limit.

NOAA’s National Weather Service Saves Lives Every Day

The National Weather Service was established on February 9, 1870 and we have President Ulysses S. Grant to thank for it. However, he wasn’t the first person in our country’s history to recognize the importance of weather tracking. Weather patterns are so critical to our daily life and survival that even our Founding Fathers made regular weather observations and recorded temperatures. In fact, Thomas Jefferson owned one of the only barometers in America at that time. Unfortunately, there was no way of making large scale, impactful insights until the invention of the telegraph.

Momentum started building in 1849, when the Smithsonian Institution provided basic meteorological instruments to telegraph companies like Bell. With the help of telegraphs, 150 people that year were able to record weather patterns and temperatures side by side, and then share them with the network to create the very first weather maps. Just over a decade later, there were roughly 500 weather stations set up throughout the US, all tracking weather observations on a daily basis. For the first time, enough people were measuring weather patterns at the same time to be able to chart the data and make predictions about the weather.
During the next decade, the first national weather service – later officially called The National Weather Service, grew from a volunteer network of various weather stations. Back then it was a division of the Army, but by 1890, Congress passed legislation that reassigned weather services to the U.S. Weather Bureau in the Department of Agriculture. In the next year, they started issuing the first flood warnings.

Just at the turn of the century, cable connections were made between U.S. and Europe, allowing for weather warnings to be passed back and forth at greater distances. By this point, communication was beginning to be so expansive that the Weather Bureau could actually forecast events up to three days in advance. Having already established a hurricane warning network in the West Indies, the Weather Bureau was able to start the hurricane warning service in 1935.
With the growth of the Weather Bureau came the realization that weather services weren’t just an invaluable tool for farmers and workers in the Agriculture industry, so the whole assembly was transferred to the Department of Commerce in 1940. In 1950, the first official tornado warning service was established, and in 1960 the first weather satellite started orbiting our stratosphere.
By 1970, the Weather Bureau was renamed to the National Weather Service after being absorbed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). What started out as 150 volunteers sharing weather observations was now a major national organization with over 11,000 weather stations.

Today, the National Weather Service is more accurate and expansive than ever. A person can easily check weather forecasts, storm maps, and local Doppler radar information on the National Weather Service website.

More importantly, even during emergency situations with power outages, it’s still possible to receive weather updates on radios with hand crank or solar powered functionalities. The National Weather Service makes it possible to get weather updates and check the weekly forecast from your phone by downloading the National Weather Service app. However, critical weather alerts in your area are sent to your phone via SMS, regardless if you have the app installed.
Every year, the National Weather Service saves thousands of lives with their weather alerts. Prior to their detailed forecasts, the population had little to no warning of severe weather or storms. Today, thanks to major technological advances, strong communication, and better forecasting than ever, the National Weather Service can predict and broadcast alerts about major events such as Hurricane Harvey, which resulted in fewer than 100 casualties last year.

How to Prepare for a Power Outage

Power outages can happen for a variety of reasons but occur most frequently during the summer and winter months when weather and temperatures can be extreme and unpredictable. Power outages can happen unplanned in the case of strong winds or vehicle accidents that take down power lines or planned in the case of rolling blackouts which are used as a last resort by energy companies in order to curb energy crises or avoid system overloads.

Rolling blackouts are more common during the hottest summer months when energy needs skyrocket due to increased air conditioning usage, but this type of intervention isn't very common within the United States.

If a blackout occurs in your town or community, the most likely causes are damage to powerlines due to lightning strikes, wind, flooding and snow. If you reside in an area where these are particularly common, it's best to prepare yourself in advance. While power outages are often short-lived, we recommend that you follow a couple of simple guidelines in case an outage occurs so that you and your family aren't caught off guard by such an event.

Do:

Talk to your children about power outages

They may not be ready to hear about the birds and the bees, but talking to your children about possible emergency situations at any age can help you avoid a panic situation. We recommend that you keep it simple by informing them about what causes a power outage and what your course of action will be in the event of one.

Make a plan
Your plans may be as simple as staying put and preparing entertainment for the kids or stocking up on emergency cooling packs or blankets for outages in very hot or cold areas. Regardless of the extent of your plans, we recommend that you start with an emergency crank- or battery-powered light and that you keep extra batteries on hand.

Invest in a surge protector

When power fails, surges in electricity that cause voltage to spike are highly common. When this happens, sensitive equipment such as computers can be damaged. A surge protector limits the amount of voltage that reaches your appliance in the event of a surge. Most power strips have built-in surge protectors and are available for $10 or $20.

Don't:

Leave Candles Unattended

Candles are commonly associated with poweroutages. Use candles with care. If you light candles for temporary emergency lighting, don’t leave them unattended. Do not leave candles burning if you planto go to bed.  Also, keep flashlights you’ll use solely in the case of an emergency stocked in various rooms of the house.  

Open the fridge

When the power goes out, it's only natural to start thinking of your perishables as valuable commodities that must be preserved at all costs, even if that means eating them. But consuming what you can before it goes bad will only lead to bellyaches and rising refrigerator temperatures.

Your fridge is constructed to keep cool air in, and by keeping it shut during a power outage, you avoid compromising the temperatures needed to keep food bacteria-free.

Try to be a hero

It's no secret that electricity is a powerful force, but we'll reiterate it here anyway. If you begin to believe that desperate times call for desperate measures, your judgement may be clouded, leading you to believe you’re equipped to handle things that are outside of the scope of your capabilities. No matter the circumstance of your local power outage, remember that you aren't prepared to repair powerlines.

For additional information about power outages, we recommend contacting your local electricity provider. Your local energy company will also likely have a portion of their online site devoted to power outages in your area, allowing you to confirm your power outage is more than a blown fuse and to monitor outages as they occur and are repaired.

If you have any additional tips for our readers, leave your comment in the box below.

Surviving a Winter Storm Without Power

One of the toughest and most difficult experiences you can face is a power outage during a winter storm. We often don’t realize just how much we depend on electricity until it is suddenly cut out of our lives. However, if you are prepared and have the right emergency supplies at hand, you will be able to stay in your home relatively comfortably, and you might even make a good time out of it.

Preparing for a Winter Power Interruption

The best protection against having no power during a blizzard or ice storm is to be prepared. This means you must have all of the essentials for survival, including the following:

• Food and water: If you think you may be trapped in your home or unable to drive, you should have at least a five-day supply of water and food. Plan to have at least one gallon of water per person per day, and the food should require only minimal preparation.


• Light: Darkness can totally incapacitate you, so it is essential to have at least three reliable light sources. This includes battery-operated lanterns, headlamps and flashlights.


• AM/FM/weather radio: In inclement weather, a battery-powered or crank-powered emergency radio will keep you up-to-date with the latest weather and safety reports, and it can help keep boredom at bay.


• Two-way radio: If the phones are down and cell phones are not working, a two-way CB radio may provide the best chance of contact with the outside world in emergency situations.

What to Do When the Power Goes Out

Even if you have made all the proper preparations for a winter power outage, you still have to take several steps to ensure the safety and comfort of you and your family:

• Operate your generator safely. A generator can provide all the electricity you need as long it is operated sparingly and safely. Always keep gas- or propane-operated generators outside or in a well-ventilated area. Other options include Goal Zero generators, which can be used safely and silently indoors.


• Protect your plumbing. Let each faucet run slightly to help prevent freezing.


• Keep perishable food cold. If possible, put food that may spoil into a separate cooler with plenty of ice. However, you can also place your food outside in a sturdy container out of the sun. SOS Survival Products also offers a wide range of freeze-dried foods and food bars for emergencies, with 5- to 25-year shelf life.


• Use your fireplace. If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, start a fire to keep warm.

Power outages during winter storms are not only inconvenient and uncomfortable but also dangerous and life threatening. However, if you have the right emergency equipment and supplies and are prepared for this situation, you will experience few problems until electricity can be restored.

Four Power Generators to Meet Your Emergency Needs

Portable power generators are the best way to supply electricity to your home during a power outage, and they’re also great for times when you are away from other sources of electricity, such as during camping trips. However, choosing the generator that is right for you can take some research. Among the many factors you must consider are the type of fuel the generator uses and its maximum output. Here are three generators that have what it takes when you need electricity in an emergency.

Pulsar Dual-Fuel Peak 4500 Watt Generator

This Pulsar generator provides a winning combination of convenience, portability and power, and it will satisfy your needs at home or for outdoor projects off the grid. The generator runs on either gasoline or liquid propane, which allows you to purchase whichever is less expensive or easiest to obtain.

The Pulsar Dual-Fuel Peak 4500W includes several advanced features, such as a tubular steel frame for durability and solid tires that will never go flat. In addition, it will produce 120 volts to 240 volts of electricity for 15 hours on four gallons of gasoline or 20 pounds of liquid propane.

Gentron Powermate PMC105007 5000 Watt Gas Generator

The Gentron PMC105007 is a portable propane-powered generator that can produce 5,000 watts of electricity at peak capacity. This is one of the most efficient generators in its class, and it’s officially classified as a green generator because of its mild emissions. It’s rated to run at half capacity for 10 hours on 20 pounds of fuel, and it includes several safety features to protect you and the environment.

Approved by the EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), this Gentron generator operates quietly, weighs 103 pounds and measures 23 inches by 23 inches by 32 inches, so it can be easily transported and stored.

LIFAN Energy Storm 2600iER

LIFAN Power USA is known across the country for manufacturing some of the most advanced generators in history. The Energy Storm 2600iER is sleek, efficient and highly portable. It’s one of the quietest generators on the market today, and the electricity it produces is so clean and even that it can be used to power highly sensitive electronic equipment, including computers, cameras, smartphones and LCD TVs.

This unit has a built-in handle so that it can be lifted off the ground, but it also includes wheels and a collapsible handle just like a modern suitcase. It features an electric ignition and can produce 2600 watts steadily for seven hours on 1.58 gallons of fuel.

Goal Zero Yeti 1250 Solar Generator Kit

This super heavy-duty solar generator stores 1,250 watt hours of power and is an excellent backup power source for offices, schools, and the home. It is easy to use safely and silently indoors with no worries. With the 1,000 watt inverter it is capable of running mid-sized appliances, power tools, emergency lighting, laptops, and smaller hand held devices. It features several charger ports for charging many devices simultaneously: 3-USB ports, 3-12V DC ports, and 3-AC ports. 2 Boulder 30 watt solar panels are included.

Buying an emergency power generator doesn’t have to be fraught with guesswork. The four generators above are all highly rated and will provide you with power when you need it most. All you have to do now is decide which size and style is best suited to you and your requirements.