Emergency Management Officer Jim Henderson shares his ideas for Christmas gifts.

With Christmas around the corner, I wanted to share a few practical gift ideas that make a great addition to any emergency kit.

Staying informed when the power goes out can be a real challenge. There’s no guarantee your mobile will be able to access the internet, so a portable radio is a must-have. There’s lots of good affordable options, some run on batteries, while others can be hand-cranked, and they may come with other useful features such as an inbuilt torch or USB port for charging devices. These can be found at the Warehouse, OfficeMax, AA and online for around $40.

Every home needs a good torch. Most now use LEDs, which enable the batteries to last much longer than those with the old incandescent bulbs. Some have features such as an inbuilt rechargeable battery or water resistance, but a basic, sturdy torch with spare batteries is all you really need for your emergency kit. If you get a torch with an inbuilt battery, remember to plug it in and charge it every few months. They can be found at many retailers, ranging from $10 to $100 depending on features.

Another must-have is a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies. Options range from small kits suitable for a couple, up to those that can cater for a large family. Many places also sell refill kits, so if you find yourself using bandages and other items throughout the year, they’re easy to restock.  Available from St John, Red Cross, AA and outdoor stores, from around $50 for a mid-sized family kit.

The best emergency kit is the one you make yourself. However, an off-the-shelf “Grab & Go” bag can be a convenient starter option, especially for someone who hasn’t got any emergency supplies. Check the Consumer website for a free review of the options available. Remember to customise these kits with any other essentials your family might need, such as toiletries, important documents, medications and supplies for your baby or pets. Available from AA, Mitre 10 and online, prices range between $100 to $200 depending on size.

There are also plenty of small and inexpensive items you can pop into a stocking. Waterproof matches for lighting candles, an emergency whistle (to signal for help) or a car escape tool for your keychain are all useful additions. Check getready.govt.nz for more ideas. Have a safe and happy holidays everyone!

This column was first published in the Ashburton Courier