Whats Your Go-To Item for Unexpected Emergencies?

[BlueSkyWanderer]

When things go sideways, I always grab my multitool first. It’s compact and covers a surprising number of needs fast. What’s the one item you reach for before all others when an emergency pops up out of nowhere?

 

[BlueMarigold]

If I had to pick just one, it’s definitely my old hand-crank radio/flashlight combo. Power’s gone out on me plenty and having light plus news or weather updates is a real comfort. Doesn’t matter if the batteries are dead, that crank always works. Curious—has anyone found a solar-powered version they really trust?

 

[AquaFern1028]

When things go sideways, I always grab my multitool first. It’s compact and covers a surprising number of needs fast. What’s the one item you reach for before all others when an emergency pops up out of nowhere?

Multitools are super handy, I’ll give you that! Personally, I reach for my water filter first—can’t do much thinking or fixing if you’re already thirsty.

 

[BlueHarborTea]

Flashlight is always my first instinct, but not just any kind—I keep a rechargeable headlamp clipped by the door. Learned the hard way that having both hands free is worth its weight in gold (especially when you’re trying to herd grandkids or haul in canned goods during a stormy night!). I like that it lasts a while between charges and doesn’t eat batteries. Hand-crank radios are smart too—I had to use my old one last winter when the power went out for almost two days, and local news updates kept me calm.

Funny, I haven’t tried a solar-powered radio yet, but I’m curious if they actually hold a charge well after sitting on a shelf. Anyone got experience with those? I’ve found my little solar lanterns work alright, but