How to Prepare a Summer Emergency Kit
Summer means longer days and sunshine, but it can also bring extreme heat, sudden storms, and unexpected power cuts. Putting together a summer emergency kit can help you stay safe, calm and relaxed when the weather turns unpredictable.
A summer emergency doesn’t have to be a natural disaster. A motorway breakdown, train cancellation, unexpected heatwave, or power cut can quickly become uncomfortable—or even dangerous—when temperatures rise.
Assess Summer Risks
Different areas of the country face different summer hazards. Some common risks include:
- Heatwaves:High temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, or power grid strain.
- Thunderstorms:Lightning, heavy rain, and strong winds can damage property or cause flooding.
- Power outages:Hot weather and storms can disrupt electricity for hours or days.
- Water shortages:Droughts or supply issues can limit access to clean water.
Understanding your local risks helps to customise your emergency kit to your specific needs.
Preparing for UK Heatwaves
A well-stocked kit should cover basic needs for at least 72 hours. Store items in a waterproof container or backpack that’s easy to grab quickly.
Essential Supplies
- Water – You should have at least 4 litres per person per day for drinking and cleaning.
- Non-perishable food – Any canned goods, protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
- Manual can opener for tinned food.
- First aid kit that includes bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes, allergy medication, pain relief, and any prescription medicines. Keep your medications stored in a cool, dry place.
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio so you can stay updated on weather alerts.
- Flashlights and extra batteries, and try to avoid candles to reduce the fire risk.
- Power bank or solar charger to keep your phones and small devices charged.
- Multi-tool or basic toolkit that might be useful for small repairs or emergencies.
- Cash – ATMs and card machines may not work during outages.
- Important documents – Keep copies of your ID, insurance, and emergency contacts in a waterproof pouch.
Heatwave Essentials
- Cooling towels or spray bottles, as these help to lower body temperature.
- Lightweight clothing that has breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Sun protection, for example, sunscreen (at least SPF 30), hats, sunglasses, and SPF lip balm.
- Be aware if you are on certain medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines and beta-blockers, as they could increase your heat sensitivity. Check your medicine leaflets.
- Electrolyte packets to replace salts lost through sweating.
- Portable fan that is battery or solar-powered for cooling during outages.
- Shade materials like tarps or umbrellas for outdoor protection from the sun.
- Insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.
Storm and Power Outage Essentials
- Good waterproof clothing like a poncho or a rain jacket.
- Sandbags or flood barriers if you live in an area prone to flooding.
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape to quickly seal windows or leaks.
- Backup lighting like LED lanterns or glow sticks for safe lighting.
Prepare the Home
- Check for weather alerts and sign up for local emergency notifications.
- Inspect your roof and gutters and clear any debris to prevent leaks.
- Trim your trees and remove any weak branches that could fall during storms.
- Secure your outdoor items by tying down furniture, bins, and garden tools.
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace the batteries if needed.
- Buy a fire extinguisher (check expiration date)
- Keep fuel tanks full as petrol stations may close during outages.
- Unplug electronics during lightning storms and protect devices from power surges.
- Keep your blinds and curtains closed during peak heat hours to avoid sunlight.
- Keep your windows closed and only open them at night when the outside air is at a lower temperature than the indoor temperature.
Plan for Pets and Family Members
- NEVER leave anyone in a parked car, children, vulnerable adults or pets, as the temperatures can reach dangerous levels.
- Pet supplies: Food, water, leads, and carriers.
- Children’s needs: Comfort items, games, or books.
- Older adults or medical needs: Extra medication, mobility aids, or cooling devices.
Stay Safe During Heat and Storms
- Stay hydrated and drink water regularly, even if not thirsty. Drink fluids regularly throughout the day, especially if you are physically active. You should drink enough that your pee is a pale straw colour.
- However, it shouldn’t go completely clear, as you could then be overhydrated.
- Try to avoid alcohol and highly sugary drinks.
- Avoid peak heat and stay inside between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Avoid floodwaters and never drive or walk through moving water.
- Check on others. Make sure your neighbours, especially elderly or vulnerable people, are safe.
Review and Refresh Regularly
- Replace any expired food, water, and batteries every six months.
- Update your kit as your needs change.
- Store your kit in an accessible, cool, and dry location.
A well-prepared summer emergency kit provides security and confidence when facing heatwaves, storms, or power outages. By planning and keeping things in check, you can stay safe, comfortable, and resilient through whatever summer brings.
The links below allow you to register, and you will then receive emails with weather health alerts for your area.
For further information on being safe in the summer, please click the links below.
Do you have any emergency prep tips? Please let me know in the comments section.
