Essential supplies for domestic emergencies and blackouts

Effective preparation for domestic emergencies, such as sudden water leaks or power outages, relies on maintaining a versatile and accessible kit of essential items rather than specialized equipment.

Key tools recommended by Civil Protection include flashlights with spare batteries, headlamps to keep hands free, cloths, bags, and adhesive tape. It is vital that all family members know where this equipment is stored to ensure quick access during a crisis.

For prolonged blackouts or water interruptions, maintaining a 48-hour to 3-day food supply is critical to prevent dehydration and malnutrition, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Recommended supplies include non-perishable, easy-to-consume items that do not require cooking, such as canned legumes, tuna, meat, vegetables, long-life bread, crackers, dried fruit, and UHT milk. A balanced emergency pantry should also include complex carbohydrates, proteins like peanut butter, and healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil.