Did you know that in 2020, utility companies reported 1.33 billion hours of power outages throughout the country? That’s an increase of almost 75% from the previous year.
Emergencies can strike anytime. When they do occur, whether it’s a natural disaster, severe weather conditions, or a power grid failure, having access to electricity becomes crucial for our safety and well-being. Traditional power sources may become unreliable or completely unavailable, making it essential to have alternative solutions in place.
Solar-powered home products provide a sustainable and renewable energy source that can provide you with various essential devices and equipment during emergencies. Let’s delve into the risks associated with power loss during emergencies and how solar-powered survival gear can provide a lifeline.
Dangers and Risks of Losing Power in Emergency Situations
During emergency situations, losing access to power can have severe consequences.
- Communication becomes challenging as phones and other electronic devices lose battery.
- Darkness prevails without adequate lighting, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Essential appliances like refrigerators and medical equipment may fail, leading to food spoilage and compromised health conditions.
As you can probably see, it’s vital to be aware of these risks and have a plan in place to mitigate them.
Solar-Powered Survival Gear You Need on Hand
1. Solar-Powered Lights & Lanterns
Solar-powered lights and lanterns are indispensable during power outages. They harness sunlight during the day and provide illumination when darkness falls. These lights come in various forms, including LED flashlights, camping lanterns, and garden lights.
These lights are versatile and portable, allowing you to use them indoors or outdoors. They are also eco-friendly, as they do not rely on disposable batteries or electricity from the grid.
2. Solar-Powered Radio
Staying informed during emergencies is crucial, enabling you to receive updates on evacuation orders, weather conditions, and rescue operations. A solar-powered radio ensures you stay connected to emergency broadcasts even when other communication channels fail.
These radios often feature hand cranks and built-in solar panels, offering multiple charging options. Look for radios with additional features like a flashlight, USB charging ports, and NOAA weather alerts.
3. Solar Camping Stove
Cooking meals becomes a challenge during power outages. A solar camping stove solves this problem by harnessing the sun’s energy to cook food. Solar stoves are lightweight, portable, and easy to use. They work by concentrating sunlight onto a cooking surface, allowing you to prepare meals even without access to traditional power sources.
Solar camping stoves are efficient and eco-friendly, reducing the need for fuel or electricity.
Related Article: Best Wood Burning Stoves on Amazon
4. Solar-Powered Cell Phone Charger or Power Station
In emergency situations, a functioning cell phone can be a lifeline for communication, seeking help, or accessing critical information. Solar-powered cell phone chargers provide a convenient solution to keep your devices powered up. These chargers use solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy, ensuring your phone stays charged even when the power grid is down.
Pro Tip: Look for models compatible with various devices and equipped with multiple USB ports for charging multiple devices simultaneously.
Alternately, a solar power station may be a good option for your family. These are devices that you can plug various different small appliances into, such as cell phones, radios, laptops or even kitchen appliances like toaster ovens or air fryers.
5. Solar Shower
Maintaining personal hygiene is essential during emergencies. Solar showers offer a way to enjoy a warm shower even without access to hot water. These portable showers use the sun’s energy to heat water, providing a comfortable bathing experience. Solar showers are designed with a black reservoir that absorbs heat and a showerhead to regulate water flow. They are an excellent option for camping, emergencies, or even during off-grid living.
