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An electrical power outage will be less inconvenient and more pleasant if you take the time to prepare a power outage emergency kit before it occurs. Here are some items to include in the kit, which you may want to store in a waterproof container...
* Bright flashlight with working bulb and batteries (preferably sealed). If you use rechargeables, check them periodically to make sure they haven't lost the charge while sitting in a drawer.
* Paper cups, paper plates, plastic utensils. You won't be able to run the hot water heater or dishwasher during a power outage, so these are useful items to include in your emergency kit.
* Portable battery-operated radio. It should have good reception and be able to tune both the AM and FM bands. If it can also tune the weather, CB or shortwave radio bands, this is a plus.
* Food that doesn't expire quickly or require electricity to prepare. Granola bars, apple sauce, canned fruit and saltines are good items to put in your power outage emergency kit.
* Small amount of cash. Banks might close and ATMs may not function during a widespread power outage or other emergency. With some cash, you may still be able to buy food at a store.
* Solar Battery Charger and rechargeable batteries. This can keep flashlights, clocks, radios, small fans and other battery-operated electronics running when a long-term power outage occurs.
* Hand sanitizer. Products such as Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer allow you to clean your hands without running water. If your water still runs during a power outage, this isn't necessary.
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