Just a footnote from the texas freeze, those bic lighters will freeze up in cold temps. So if you keep it in a pocket close to your body will keep it working.
And I'll be recharging all of my flashlights, headlamps, batteries, communications, weapon lights, night vision, and lanterns with my portable solar panels and battery backups. Was a little spendy at first to makey "SHTF- HQ" lol (a.k.a basement) but over time it payed for itself 10x over. Got a pretty sick power/charging station ive been working on the past couple years
Because *everyone* should be a "prepper" (aka - take first and primary responsibility for their safety, security, and general health and well-being). We've forfeited that as a nation, and hence, are in the situation we are now. Go figure 🤷♂️
I think we need to try to steer the common definition of "prepper" away from "someone who stockpiles food and ammunition for a societal collapse" and toward "someone who has prepared for inevitable disasters of all magnitudes, small or large." A Boy Scout, in other words. "Be Prepared!"
I’m from Texas and this past winter storm woke me up big time!! I’m so much more prepared now. Also expecting hurricane season to become worse so we prepped for that too. Thank God for these channels. God bless.
Based on the TX storms and power outages I decided to build a box for my home after watching the videos people uploaded showing what happened, immediately followed by what they wish they had on hand. I think Sensible Prepper covered a lot of great items in this video. In my box, I added chemlights, USB rechargeable lanterns, a few candles, and one D cell lantern. +You don't need to buy an O-light brand flashlight for your preps folks. For the price of a single Olight flashlight Seeker 2 you can build a solid starter kit. They are fantastic flashlights but starting a kit build with $110.00 bucks on a single flashlight is an expensive approach in my opinion.
A good thing to add is an inexpensive reflective safety vest. It may help you be seen by rescue teams or prevent you from being struck by a vehicle if you need to leave on foot.
I use a hunting vest for walking accrost town in heavy traffic . As many streets I have to cross have non working crosswalks. And being a university town we have a lot of idiot under 30 whom can't really drive behind the wheel.
I’ve lived in the Houston, Texas area most of my life (I’m 62). I’ve been through hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms and I don’t think we’ve ever had an actual black-out box. I’ve only recently started working on one, because of the ‘big freeze’ we recently experienced down here. I guess my family always trusted that God would keep us safe!
I live in Conroe.. the Winter storm woke me up that we are not prepared. It was actually scary. I was too afraid to let my children play in the snow because there was no way I could warm them after. I’ve learned a lot since that storm.
Great vid,I would also add, make sure everyone in your family knows where the supplies are ,and how to use them, you may not be home( at work,etc) when they need them.
I like to keep a few chemlights in my larger emergency kits and packs; they'll glow all night, with no fire danger, bright enough to see by in an average room. This allows you to save battery-powered lights for more intensive lighting needs such as repairs, medical emergencies, searches, etc. Also, make sure to inspect all your gear at least once a year (I prefer during spring cleaning) to check and replace damaged or expired items, and so you remember what you actually have in them. Mark the inspection date on your box label so you can tell how many years you skipped.
I've been using chem lights for years, and to be honest I think they're gimmicky bullshit. They do not put out enough light to even read a book unless you basically have it sitting on the page lol. Chem lights are great and have many uses, but light in and of itself is barely one of them lol. Nowadays I use them for marking locations, things in Camp such as clotheslines or ropes that people can get hung up on walking around in the dark, and the obvious signaling uses by spinning it in a circle with rope, but whenever I see people have chem lights in a kit and talk about how they produce enough light for anything, just makes me shake my head and laugh LOL.
@@mrdark9916 To each their own, I guess. I keep them handy so that in a pinch, such as when my flashlight batteries suddenly die or I lose it, I have at least some minimal light to find other gear. Different brands may have different brightness. I'd rather have a little light than none when I need it most.
Hi all sounds great and very practical , just one subjeston , I have seen a lot of disposable attachments for lights that you could fit into inside of lid of case. Just stick on, cheaper lights. That being a black out box, you could open lid and switch on so you could see what your getting out in the dark. Take care folks
Solar powered garden/Sidewalk lights are great. You can charge them during the day and bring them into the house at night and place them in a glass vase or jar and they will illuminate your rooms then recharge the next day. rinse and repeat. Dollar store has them for $1 each. Save those candles for last resort.
Good quick response box for a house. I don't get the criticism in the comments like ''what about food, water, gas cooker'' or ''why have you got poncho, mylar blankets''. Obviously this isn't the total extent of your preps. I haven't got a box like this because I live in a small apartment, but I do have all of the items and I know exactly where they are, and I always have an olight in my pocket, and another flashlight right next to my bed for when I'm not dressed.
You might use some reflective tape or glow in the dark tape to mark it. Great video brother! I’m commenting like 3 minutes in so ignore if this is addressed lol
I had to re-watch this as we just came through torrential, record setting rain here in NJ, just west of NYC, from the remnants of hurricane Ida. We did not have any power outage other than a quick dimming of the lights. We have all of these items at home, but they are scattered around the house and to some degree, in the bug out bag. It makes sense to have a go-to kit for these items without having to scramble around when the lights do go out, or pilfer from the other bags. I am going to make an effort to get better organized and also buy some extra batteries. Currently, I have my eye on hurricane Larry way out in the Atlantic, but creeping toward the East coast.
I think of the kit as something I may keep in our safe spot for tornados. A bright flashing light and a safety whistle would help people find you if you are trapped in that space. Experienced many tornados over the years and storing safety items in the spot you most likely will need them is a big help. Additionally, you might want to keep emergency phone numbers for utilities and other services taped in the top of the black out box. It could come in handy. You may have them in your phone, but a secondary location is never a bad plan. Thanks for all of the great information.
First thing that you should have is a flashlight ON YOUR PERSON! It will help finding things much easier. There is NO reason why any person can't get a small keychain light. The Olight i1R2 EOS is the PERFECT light for a keychain. If you could get a couple of tritium inserts to identify the box, that may help as well. Don't forget to charge the lights once every month or so to ensure they work when you need them!
@@lomaxx1138 Make sure that phone is charged, too! It amazes me how many people can go throughout the day with their cells on 10% charge. If it gets even close to 50% and I know I won't be using it much in the meantime, I charge it back to 75%-80%. A bit extreme I'll admit, but I have never had a phone die on me, and can use it for things like the flashlight or camera or as a notepad when I can't access the internet or wifi so it's still useful.
Maybe do a video on a more prolonged power outage and talk about generators, deepy cycle batters with AC converters, and small battery backup systems with solar cells.
Also,... on the solar,... a Tesla power wall (large Lithium battery) charged by the solar of sufficient size to run some essential home items, like the refrigerator, room window A/C unit ( 105=110 + degrees regularly here in Ariz during summer ) and a few other items, during power down. Thanks great video.
My granddaughter was forever joking about my prepping but she definitely changed her mind when we had a power cut. We had plenty of charged torches and lanterns, battery charger packs meant my granddaughters could watch a movie on my tablet to keep them both entertained. You've now given me a great idea to make up my own box for home
This makes a great individual earthquake kit also. Add some energy bars and water or life straw and you’re set. Put a small flashlight in the boots under your bed.
I live in north montana, we lose power all the time. I have a box of supplies, but a transfer switch for my generator would be best. Head lamps are the way to go. When the power goes out, we lose our well water, and with all our animals it's hard. We keep about 30 gallons of water stored for them and us just in case. But if you can, a generator and transfer switch are the way to go. Also, a wood burning stove, you can cook a meal and stay warm
Another alternative to candles for lighting, I keep white chemlights in my kit. Had a family friend lose their house to candle fire, so I am personally hesitant to use them for lighting.
I am a candle guy, I like making them and burning them but you have to use some common sense in order to be safe. One of the great features of candles is that they will store forever with no expiration date and they will never go dead. Even those misshapen ones that you left in the hot atic will still burn. Learn to be safe with candles and they can be a valuble resource.
I use sunglass/goggles for various work and also keep a pair close by during storms also 👍 canvas jacket and a kevlar neck gaiter meant for explosive/fragments for the military too!
I'm really surprised you didnt include a battery powered am/fm radio or a walkie talkie. Another big thing to think about when the power goes out is the fact that most if not all of your security systems will be down so keep an eye on your property as theives will take this as an opportunity to strike
What I learned with the Feb. Freeze of 2021. Water, alternate fuel source, matches, blankets, mouthwash, body wipes and a source of soft light (not from candles) for when everybody goes to bed. I embraced the 72 hour power and water outage as a practice run. I was surprised of a need for a soft light source at night. Food preparation was not an issue, but without natural gas I could see where other people struggled.
I recently put together a blackout box after going through the Texas Winter Storm / Power Outage. Great to see Sensible Prepper's take on it. Great info. I created a video similar video of my blackout box.
I’m going to give the box idea a try , I have everything on the list but not in the same place ! For the record, BIC lighters have always been extremely reliable for me and part of my EDC for decades.
As long as I can remember I’ve always had a black out box. They have evolved as tech has changed but the one constant I’ve alway had in there is a new deck of card, 5 rolls of pennies, a couple of dice and a pad of paper with a few pens and pencils.
Sootch, In my opinion this kit is overprepped to solve too many problems and turned it into a bug out bag. I set up a power outage kit, but I followed the kiss principle. It is focused on one purpose, providing light, power and fire for my house in the event of a power outage. So it only has flashlights, a propane lantern, chemlights, candles, fire sources, batteries and spare propane. I also have reflective/glow in the dark stickers on the outside to make it easier to find in the dark. I keep mine in the kitchen, on top of a cabinet. The kitchen is covenient to the whole house and well lit all day so the glowstickers are always “charged”. If I had to deal with a Texas freeze, well I have a different kit for that.
I like the idea of this, but I definitely think the way he set his up is upgraded past what people would need for a simple power outage. This seems more like a storm kit, wind damage to the house, rain blowing in, debris whipping around hurting people. Simple power outage for a day or two I don't think you'll need work gloves, a first aid kit or a survival blanket, at least not in the box for power outages.
I have everyone set up with a flashlight and head lamp at their bedside. When the kids were little they liked to play with them so I kept extras hidden away incase their's had wondered away. A couple of years ago I began trading them out for all LEDs and now I am adding lanterns with multiple recharging options including solar and hand cranks. We have one cabinet where all of the spares are stored. I still love my candles, which can be a great resource when used safely. I will always have some of those around too. I also bought some solar patio lights but I got the wrong kind and I can't charge them and then turn them off for storage. They will still be fine for longer term lights out situations, just not for that first night. Thanks
Great idea! I might even add some reflective tape to the outside of that box. So it will be easier to find in the dark, or in a stack of stuff, in your basement!
I first bought a 100w “ GoPowerPlus “ solar power station. It is small, but I was just thinking about light at the time. I upgraded later to aa Bluetti. A person can connect a solar panel directly to the power station and charge. The power station is both ac/dc. An electric lamp will run 32 hours, and a LED dc light can be used also separately pr together. GOD Bless!
Label the box just like you did, but use glow-in-the-dark duct tape. If it's out in the open before the outage or if you casually run a flash light over it looking for it...boom, instant ID.
I don't trust the Open flame of a regular candle but I do like the candle lanterns.. especially the candle lantern mini that uses tea light candles they are extremely safe since they are contained in the lantern
Something to work with until you get the generator hooked up. A 5 gallon bucket would also hold some battery lanterns that wouldn't fit in the ammo can.
I have a black-out cabinet. First out 2 head lamps. Most important of all is 2 sets of back up lights. The entire ground floor is lighted as soon as the power goes off. Outside is solar powered lights. 1 where at the side door. 1 in the shed where the generator is. And 1 where I set up the generator. Cords, oil, starting fluid etc. Outside wall of the kitchen and furnace room are marine battery charger inlets. They power surface mounted wall outlets. 2 cords and everything I need is powered. If nothing else put a plug on your furnace. And plenty of freedom launchers. Beer too.
‘Couple suggestions. Might as well make it EMP resistant, so use a metal box and such... Use glow in the dark tape on the outside so you can find the dang thing, Better yet paint the whole thing glowinthe dark Use moisture absorbing desiccant packs liberally, because burning things for light or heat tends to create a lot of moisture in the air, you want to protect your electronics and batteries etc.
Thanks sootch for videos on IFAKS I actually had to use it today. I was sharpening my knife using the lansky sharpening system it fell on my arm and the point stabbed me on my wrist down to the bone. Was bleeding a bit used some bleedstop powder poured it on the wound and it stopped bleeding. Put a guaze on. Dr said just use antibiotic ointment keep covered it hurts a bit but what ever.
Battery lanterns over candles, as a lot of them have USB ports, and radios. Some can be charged by cranking. And Sterno.
3 ปีที่แล้ว +1
I recently bought 4 solar generators, 2 Anker Powerhouse II 400's & 2 Anker Powerhouse II 800's, great generators, they are built better than any solar generator I've seen, extremely solid & durable. I've been very happy with the power output and the connectors, the 400 has 8mm and all the USB types charging connections and the 800 has 8mm, all the USB types and has Anderson Connectors. I'm able to use my Goal Zero 30w & 50w panels, so you have the capability to use almost any type of panels, they don't make you buy their panels, which is awesome. I highly recommend both of them. And if your looking for a great battery powered lamp, i recommend the Black Diamond Moji 250 lumen, they are USB rechargeable & also run on AA batteries, so your able to have to get twice the amount of power, you can use the rechargeable battery first and then use the AA power. They make a smaller Moji 100 lumen, but they are not rechargeable. The Moji 250 also works as a portable battery for USB devices, so you can charge your phone, tablet or any other USB device with it. The Moji 250 lumen can put out enough light to light up an entire room, but have different modes, allowing you to save power. I've seen the Obulbs from Olight and other battery powered lamps, but nothing comes close to the Black Diamond Moji 250 & Volt 250, both of these are excellent choices for portable camp or black out lights for rooms or tents.
I would use a bright colored box to make it easier to find in the dark. My blackout kit has cyalume sticks, hand cranked lantern, hand crank radio/flashlight/phone charger combo, and couple battery powered fans (I've been thru too many summers with blackouts and no AC)
I think you might have forgotten the crank portable radio.. I found one at Walmart that you can crank or use solar or you can plug it in via USB and charge the battery.. you can also charge cell phones off of the battery in the crank radio
Olights are awesome; I have a few too many, already. Having a couple of low-power flashlights on standby to maneuver the family around in the dark is a good idea, and an M1T Raider makes a good general-purpose EDC light, but for general power-down lighting, chem lights are the first go-to. No batteries, no open flames, no risk of damage from being dropped or submerged. 12-hour lights are cheap enough, and the 2-hour white lights are surprisingly bright.
A real good all around survival box with emergency food and small portable cook stoves and small cook pots and utensils are a great idea. I live practically on the ga.fl. state line so a well stocked hurricane box comes to my mind.
I would add reflective tape to the outside of the box. It will make it that much easier to find in the dark. Murphy’s law say we will no be near the box when we need it.
A Naptha Colman lantern and one can of fuel gives you both light and heat for a considerable time, a few decorative and functional coal oil lamps are also a great must have for heat and light . I would add a roll of aluminum foil to your black box ,,light & heat reflecting, useful for cooking in a pinch ..
I am building a black out box for my 82 year old neighbor. But I am calling it a Zombie survival box as he has a great sense of humour. , cheers
I didn't go through all the comments but Luminous tape or Luminous paint on the box to help find it in the dark when you really get caught off guard.
OR.... Have your gear organized... Lol
Just a footnote from the texas freeze, those bic lighters will freeze up in cold temps. So if you keep it in a pocket close to your body will keep it working.
Good point. Thanks
All you gotta do is roll them down your leg once or twice
Or get an electric lighter
Always have a fire steel and striker. Even if you prefer lighters. I have multiple fire sources in the vehicles and house.
Anything butane freezes up.
Flashlights and Emergency Candles get me to my old fashioned oil lamps.
And I'll be recharging all of my flashlights, headlamps, batteries, communications, weapon lights, night vision, and lanterns with my portable solar panels and battery backups.
Was a little spendy at first to makey "SHTF- HQ" lol (a.k.a basement) but over time it payed for itself 10x over. Got a pretty sick power/charging station ive been working on the past couple years
You know... This is the kind of thing, prepper or not, everyone needs.
Definitely. It's basic but something you'll use way more than a bug out bag Thanks Matt
@@SensiblePrepper I mean not everyone is a prepper, i get that, but name someone who's never had/been in a power outage.
Because *everyone* should be a "prepper" (aka - take first and primary responsibility for their safety, security, and general health and well-being). We've forfeited that as a nation, and hence, are in the situation we are now. Go figure 🤷♂️
@@alexketteman5202 I mean you're not wrong.
I think we need to try to steer the common definition of "prepper" away from "someone who stockpiles food and ammunition for a societal collapse" and toward "someone who has prepared for inevitable disasters of all magnitudes, small or large." A Boy Scout, in other words. "Be Prepared!"
I’m from Texas and this past winter storm woke me up big time!! I’m so much more prepared now. Also expecting hurricane season to become worse so we prepped for that too. Thank God for these channels. God bless.
Based on the TX storms and power outages I decided to build a box for my home after watching the videos people uploaded showing what happened, immediately followed by what they wish they had on hand. I think Sensible Prepper covered a lot of great items in this video. In my box, I added chemlights, USB rechargeable lanterns, a few candles, and one D cell lantern. +You don't need to buy an O-light brand flashlight for your preps folks. For the price of a single Olight flashlight Seeker 2 you can build a solid starter kit. They are fantastic flashlights but starting a kit build with $110.00 bucks on a single flashlight is an expensive approach in my opinion.
A good thing to add is an inexpensive reflective safety vest. It may help you be seen by rescue teams or prevent you from being struck by a vehicle if you need to leave on foot.
the problem is that looters could notice you
I use a hunting vest for walking accrost town in heavy traffic . As many streets I have to cross have non working crosswalks. And being a university town we have a lot of idiot under 30 whom can't really drive behind the wheel.
I keep one of those in my EDC pack. Glad you mentioned it.
I’ve lived in the Houston, Texas area most of my life (I’m 62). I’ve been through hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms and I don’t think we’ve ever had an actual black-out box. I’ve only recently started working on one, because of the ‘big freeze’ we recently experienced down here. I guess my family always trusted that God would keep us safe!
Amen to that, and God also helps those who help themselves bro!
I live in Conroe.. the Winter storm woke me up that we are not prepared. It was actually scary. I was too afraid to let my children play in the snow because there was no way I could warm them after. I’ve learned a lot since that storm.
Trust but verify, and God helps those who help themselves seems to apply.
I blame Biden... Texas never froze over, when Trump was in office! He wouldn't let that happen! 😁
@@BlackMamba-lt8oe While that sounds smart, you can't out run or mess with mother nature!
Great vid,I would also add, make sure everyone in your family knows where the supplies are ,and how to use them, you may not be home( at work,etc) when they need them.
Thanks Larry! Good point
I like to keep a few chemlights in my larger emergency kits and packs; they'll glow all night, with no fire danger, bright enough to see by in an average room. This allows you to save battery-powered lights for more intensive lighting needs such as repairs, medical emergencies, searches, etc. Also, make sure to inspect all your gear at least once a year (I prefer during spring cleaning) to check and replace damaged or expired items, and so you remember what you actually have in them. Mark the inspection date on your box label so you can tell how many years you skipped.
Do you have a preferred choice ? I like these but haven't found larger ones.
I've been using chem lights for years, and to be honest I think they're gimmicky bullshit. They do not put out enough light to even read a book unless you basically have it sitting on the page lol.
Chem lights are great and have many uses, but light in and of itself is barely one of them lol.
Nowadays I use them for marking locations, things in Camp such as clotheslines or ropes that people can get hung up on walking around in the dark, and the obvious signaling uses by spinning it in a circle with rope, but whenever I see people have chem lights in a kit and talk about how they produce enough light for anything, just makes me shake my head and laugh LOL.
@@mrdark9916 To each their own, I guess. I keep them handy so that in a pinch, such as when my flashlight batteries suddenly die or I lose it, I have at least some minimal light to find other gear. Different brands may have different brightness. I'd rather have a little light than none when I need it most.
Paracord for the tarp and a glow stick for signaling would be great to have in box..
Yeah let's wave a glow stick so people can take ALL YOUR STUFF.
Hi all sounds great and very practical , just one subjeston , I have seen a lot of disposable attachments for lights that you could fit into inside of lid of case. Just stick on, cheaper lights. That being a black out box, you could open lid and switch on so you could see what your getting out in the dark. Take care folks
it is never that dark enen in a black out there is some ambient light
@@phililpb IT is never totally dark . It is just that there is not enough light to see and do what you want by
Great ideas, thanks.
Glow sticks are always good for the dark!
EVERYBODY NEEDS THIS! Power goes out all of the time, these things come in as a life saver when that happens.
A source to cook would be a great addition
pretty comprehensive kit. only thing I would add is eye protection...simple work glasses/goggles...
I love a good lights out kit or black out bag. Its amazing how many people dont even have a single flashlight for outrages
Solar powered garden/Sidewalk lights are great. You can charge them during the day and bring them into the house at night and place them in a glass vase or jar and they will illuminate your rooms then recharge the next day. rinse and repeat. Dollar store has them for $1 each. Save those candles for last resort.
Harbor freight has good Pop up Lanterns for $5 (unless the price went up) very bright.
Got a couple from rural king in northeast Indiana very bright would be lost without them
Post some glow in dark stickers around the box .
Great list! In ours we also put a small wind-up travel alarm clock. No battery worry and handy to have both the time and alarm options.
One thing I would suggest is a whistle. I have one on a lanyard I can wear during emergency situations.
Good quick response box for a house. I don't get the criticism in the comments like ''what about food, water, gas cooker'' or ''why have you got poncho, mylar blankets''. Obviously this isn't the total extent of your preps. I haven't got a box like this because I live in a small apartment, but I do have all of the items and I know exactly where they are, and I always have an olight in my pocket, and another flashlight right next to my bed for when I'm not dressed.
You might use some reflective tape or glow in the dark tape to mark it. Great video brother! I’m commenting like 3 minutes in so ignore if this is addressed lol
I had to re-watch this as we just came through torrential, record setting rain here in NJ, just west of NYC, from the remnants of hurricane Ida. We did not have any power outage other than a quick dimming of the lights. We have all of these items at home, but they are scattered around the house and to some degree, in the bug out bag. It makes sense to have a go-to kit for these items without having to scramble around when the lights do go out, or pilfer from the other bags. I am going to make an effort to get better organized and also buy some extra batteries. Currently, I have my eye on hurricane Larry way out in the Atlantic, but creeping toward the East coast.
You can add a butane camp stove and percolator. These items may be to big for the box. But useful when the power goes out.
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼AWESOME IDEA, SOOTCH!!👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
I was just reviewing mine. GREAT IDEAS... especially how well you organize everything!!! You Rock. Stay safe. 🇺🇸💪🏼
Thanks Brother!
I think of the kit as something I may keep in our safe spot for tornados. A bright flashing light and a safety whistle would help people find you if you are trapped in that space. Experienced many tornados over the years and storing safety items in the spot you most likely will need them is a big help. Additionally, you might want to keep emergency phone numbers for utilities and other services taped in the top of the black out box. It could come in handy. You may have them in your phone, but a secondary location is never a bad plan. Thanks for all of the great information.
Bug out bag to black out box. Truly a sense of tension and stress, but needed. Thank you for sharing and be safe.
First thing that you should have is a flashlight ON YOUR PERSON! It will help finding things much easier. There is NO reason why any person can't get a small keychain light. The Olight i1R2 EOS is the PERFECT light for a keychain. If you could get a couple of tritium inserts to identify the box, that may help as well. Don't forget to charge the lights once every month or so to ensure they work when you need them!
Yes, having a flashlight is definitely something that is in my pocket every day. Thanks Joe!
@@SensiblePrepper Warrior Mini on my hip, Warrior II Pro by the door & Marauder (in BLUE) at the beside! What a terrific family we have.
@@SensiblePrepper great vids thanx...small can opener...
guys you have a flashlight on your phone you always have it. more than a key chain.
@@lomaxx1138 Make sure that phone is charged, too! It amazes me how many people can go throughout the day with their cells on 10% charge. If it gets even close to 50% and I know I won't be using it much in the meantime, I charge it back to 75%-80%. A bit extreme I'll admit, but I have never had a phone die on me, and can use it for things like the flashlight or camera or as a notepad when I can't access the internet or wifi so it's still useful.
Solar puff lanterns are awesome
A vid on battery generators would be pretty cool.
There are products that generate batteries? Dam sun sign me up
@@MalWolf01 gas generators, LP generators, natural gas generators, coal fired generators, atomic reaction fired generators. You get the idea.
I'm from Texas and these storms are really bad here and come in quick so this video was perfect timing! Thankx
My blackout box is a forklift battery in the garage and 1250 watts of solar out back. 24 years off the grid and its working great
Great video!! Power outage is one of the most common sort of scenario that people should prepare for.
Maybe do a video on a more prolonged power outage and talk about generators, deepy cycle batters with AC converters, and small battery backup systems with solar cells.
Also,... on the solar,... a Tesla power wall (large Lithium battery) charged by the solar of sufficient size to run some essential home items, like the refrigerator, room window A/C unit ( 105=110 + degrees regularly here in Ariz during summer ) and a few other items, during power down. Thanks great video.
You already have me putting 2 or 3 Olights in every room though.
They come in handy! lol! Thanks Brother
My granddaughter was forever joking about my prepping but she definitely changed her mind when we had a power cut. We had plenty of charged torches and lanterns, battery charger packs meant my granddaughters could watch a movie on my tablet to keep them both entertained. You've now given me a great idea to make up my own box for home
I think a whistle would be good to put in as well. In case you get trapped, you can alert rescuers to your location.
This makes a great individual earthquake kit also. Add some energy bars and water or life straw and you’re set. Put a small flashlight in the boots under your bed.
I would add a crank AM/FM radio with NOAA weather channels.
I live in north montana, we lose power all the time. I have a box of supplies, but a transfer switch for my generator would be best. Head lamps are the way to go. When the power goes out, we lose our well water, and with all our animals it's hard. We keep about 30 gallons of water stored for them and us just in case. But if you can, a generator and transfer switch are the way to go. Also, a wood burning stove, you can cook a meal and stay warm
Another alternative to candles for lighting, I keep white chemlights in my kit. Had a family friend lose their house to candle fire, so I am personally hesitant to use them for lighting.
I am a candle guy, I like making them and burning them but you have to use some common sense in order to be safe. One of the great features of candles is that they will store forever with no expiration date and they will never go dead. Even those misshapen ones that you left in the hot atic will still burn.
Learn to be safe with candles and they can be a valuble resource.
Shared and hoping folks take some self responsibility
I use sunglass/goggles for various work and also keep a pair close by during storms also 👍 canvas jacket and a kevlar neck gaiter meant for explosive/fragments for the military too!
I'm really surprised you didnt include a battery powered am/fm radio or a walkie talkie. Another big thing to think about when the power goes out is the fact that most if not all of your security systems will be down so keep an eye on your property as theives will take this as an opportunity to strike
What I learned with the Feb. Freeze of 2021. Water, alternate fuel source, matches, blankets, mouthwash, body wipes and a source of soft light (not from candles) for when everybody goes to bed. I embraced the 72 hour power and water outage as a practice run. I was surprised of a need for a soft light source at night. Food preparation was not an issue, but without natural gas I could see where other people struggled.
I recently put together a blackout box after going through the Texas Winter Storm / Power Outage. Great to see Sensible Prepper's take on it. Great info. I created a video similar video of my blackout box.
I’m going to give the box idea a try , I have everything on the list but not in the same place ! For the record, BIC lighters have always been extremely reliable for me and part of my EDC for decades.
As long as I can remember I’ve always had a black out box. They have evolved as tech has changed but the one constant I’ve alway had in there is a new deck of card, 5 rolls of pennies, a couple of dice and a pad of paper with a few pens and pencils.
Had to ask,..what are the pennies for? Low stakes gambling?,... just a guess. Curious,... thanks.
@@teatonaz that is pretty much it.
@@teatonaz My dumb ass thought they were for being put inside a sock as a weapon lol. I'm like, "No, use nickels. They'll hurt more!" XD
Sootch, In my opinion this kit is overprepped to solve too many problems and turned it into a bug out bag. I set up a power outage kit, but I followed the kiss principle. It is focused on one purpose, providing light, power and fire for my house in the event of a power outage. So it only has flashlights, a propane lantern, chemlights, candles, fire sources, batteries and spare propane. I also have reflective/glow in the dark stickers on the outside to make it easier to find in the dark. I keep mine in the kitchen, on top of a cabinet. The kitchen is covenient to the whole house and well lit all day so the glowstickers are always “charged”. If I had to deal with a Texas freeze, well I have a different kit for that.
I really like how you did your labels from contrasting tape. Very nice!
Thanks for the video already have most of these items .may need to get a few extra in case of a power outage
Oh, and a great gift idea too!
thanks sootchoo for the ideas!!! keep up the great work you do everyday!!!
No.radio? Or 12 volt TV?
Consider Enigizer lantern that runs on both AAA an D cells.
Have upgraded to also have a budget light forum lantern.
I like the idea of this, but I definitely think the way he set his up is upgraded past what people would need for a simple power outage. This seems more like a storm kit, wind damage to the house, rain blowing in, debris whipping around hurting people. Simple power outage for a day or two I don't think you'll need work gloves, a first aid kit or a survival blanket, at least not in the box for power outages.
I have everyone set up with a flashlight and head lamp at their bedside. When the kids were little they liked to play with them so I kept extras hidden away incase their's had wondered away. A couple of years ago I began trading them out for all LEDs and now I am adding lanterns with multiple recharging options including solar and hand cranks. We have one cabinet where all of the spares are stored. I still love my candles, which can be a great resource when used safely. I will always have some of those around too.
I also bought some solar patio lights but I got the wrong kind and I can't charge them and then turn them off for storage. They will still be fine for longer term lights out situations, just not for that first night. Thanks
Milwaukee M18 batteries and lights are amazing. They can charge your phone as well
Perfect for us east coast dwellers, hurricanes really stink and winter storms are worse 🥶 thank you!
Great idea! I might even add some reflective tape to the outside of that box. So it will be easier to find in the dark, or in a stack of stuff, in your basement!
Recommend glow-in-the-dark duct tape for labeling the box. Easier to see in a blackout.
Silly question: Can you get that glow in the dark duct tape at lowes or home depot? Where can it be purchased?
I first bought a 100w “ GoPowerPlus “ solar power station. It is small, but I was just thinking about light at the time. I upgraded later to aa Bluetti. A person can connect a solar panel directly to the power station and charge. The power station is both ac/dc. An electric lamp will run 32 hours, and a LED dc light can be used also separately pr together. GOD Bless!
Label the box just like you did, but use glow-in-the-dark duct tape. If it's out in the open before the outage or if you casually run a flash light over it looking for it...boom, instant ID.
Tossing glow sticks in stairwells is a HUGE help and can prevent falls.
Great stuff, I never thought about that.
For some reason I find myself have an affinity for your screen name.
Thanks my brother!
I don't trust the Open flame of a regular candle but I do like the candle lanterns.. especially the candle lantern mini that uses tea light candles they are extremely safe since they are contained in the lantern
Something to work with until you get the generator hooked up.
A 5 gallon bucket would also hold some battery lanterns that wouldn't fit in the ammo can.
I have a black-out cabinet. First out 2 head lamps. Most important of all is 2 sets of back up lights. The entire ground floor is lighted as soon as the power goes off. Outside is solar powered lights. 1 where at the side door. 1 in the shed where the generator is. And 1 where I set up the generator. Cords, oil, starting fluid etc. Outside wall of the kitchen and furnace room are marine battery charger inlets. They power surface mounted wall outlets. 2 cords and everything I need is powered. If nothing else put a plug on your furnace. And plenty of freedom launchers. Beer too.
Cool ideas. What’s a good solar mini charger to put in a pack like that ??
‘Couple suggestions.
Might as well make it EMP resistant, so use a metal box and such...
Use glow in the dark tape on the outside so you can find the dang thing, Better yet paint the whole thing glowinthe dark
Use moisture absorbing desiccant packs liberally, because burning things for light or heat tends to create a lot of moisture in the air, you want to protect your electronics and batteries etc.
From.the UK. Love your channel. Maybe throw in some glowsticks?
Thanks sootch for videos on IFAKS I actually had to use it today. I was sharpening my knife using the lansky sharpening system it fell on my arm and the point stabbed me on my wrist down to the bone. Was bleeding a bit used some bleedstop powder poured it on the wound and it stopped bleeding. Put a guaze on. Dr said just use antibiotic ointment keep covered it hurts a bit but what ever.
Battery lanterns over candles, as a lot of them have USB ports, and radios. Some can be charged by cranking. And Sterno.
I recently bought 4 solar generators, 2 Anker Powerhouse II 400's & 2 Anker Powerhouse II 800's, great generators, they are built better than any solar generator I've seen, extremely solid & durable. I've been very happy with the power output and the connectors, the 400 has 8mm and all the USB types charging connections and the 800 has 8mm, all the USB types and has Anderson Connectors.
I'm able to use my Goal Zero 30w & 50w panels, so you have the capability to use almost any type of panels, they don't make you buy their panels, which is awesome.
I highly recommend both of them.
And if your looking for a great battery powered lamp, i recommend the Black Diamond Moji 250 lumen, they are USB rechargeable & also run on AA batteries, so your able to have to get twice the amount of power, you can use the rechargeable battery first and then use the AA power. They make a smaller Moji 100 lumen, but they are not rechargeable. The Moji 250 also works as a portable battery for USB devices, so you can charge your phone, tablet or any other USB device with it.
The Moji 250 lumen can put out enough light to light up an entire room, but have different modes, allowing you to save power. I've seen the Obulbs from Olight and other battery powered lamps, but nothing comes close to the Black Diamond Moji 250 & Volt 250, both of these are excellent choices for portable camp or black out lights for rooms or tents.
I would use a bright colored box to make it easier to find in the dark. My blackout kit has cyalume sticks, hand cranked lantern, hand crank radio/flashlight/phone charger combo, and couple battery powered fans (I've been thru too many summers with blackouts and no AC)
I think you might have forgotten the crank portable radio.. I found one at Walmart that you can crank or use solar or you can plug it in via USB and charge the battery.. you can also charge cell phones off of the battery in the crank radio
Awesome Idea & Video Don.
I like watching videos about emergency preparedness...we can add a hard hat to protect our heads from flying object outside if we go out.from phil
Olights are awesome; I have a few too many, already. Having a couple of low-power flashlights on standby to maneuver the family around in the dark is a good idea, and an M1T Raider makes a good general-purpose EDC light, but for general power-down lighting, chem lights are the first go-to. No batteries, no open flames, no risk of damage from being dropped or submerged. 12-hour lights are cheap enough, and the 2-hour white lights are surprisingly bright.
Good idea sootch00! I’ll have to build me a couple kits like this!
Great idea and another excellent video.
Thanks
Thanks Steve!
I’m making my blockout box and will spray with neon glow in the dark paint so we can find it when the lights go out!
In my kit I have a folding sterno stove, sterno, and a percolator so I can make coffee. Priorities, Man!
Also you can make your own gunpowder and hollowpoints.
No glow in the dark stickers for the box, to find it in the dark?
This is a great idea to have one of these on hand, thanks
You need to put some reflective tape strips on the outside of the case too, be easier to find in the low level light.
Thanks for the great information.
A real good all around survival box with emergency food and small portable cook stoves and small cook pots and utensils are a great idea. I live practically on the ga.fl. state line so a well stocked hurricane box comes to my mind.
one thing i keep in mine not mentioned here is a small battery/crank powered emergency/weather radio
I suggest upgrading to rechargeable hand warmers there around 10 to $15 on Amazon and you can charge your phone with them as well
A couple of heavy duty garbage bags or some plastic to help cover things up or fix a window.
I Just have a crap load of battery banks,flashlights&lanterns and batteries for them including a small battery bank/inverter.
Excellent idea, thanks Sootch
I would add reflective tape to the outside of the box. It will make it that much easier to find in the dark. Murphy’s law say we will no be near the box when we need it.
A Naptha Colman lantern and one can of fuel gives you both light and heat for a considerable time, a few decorative and functional coal oil lamps are also a great must have for heat and light . I would add a roll of aluminum foil to your black box ,,light & heat reflecting, useful for cooking in a pinch ..
Only question I have is when are you going to put out the 2021 EDC video.