Nine items Brits must have in emergency kit as Storm Bram sparks ‘danger to life’ warning

Water and food essentials

Why this matters

Water is life, especially when wind and rain reduce access to taps or make shops hard to reach. Food fuels your body when the weather keeps you indoors or on the move. A small, well-balanced supply can be the difference between comfort and discomfort, or between staying safe and getting worn out while you navigate around blocked roads or power outages.

What to include

Plan for at least 3 days of water per person (about 2 litres per person per day, with extra for kids and pets). If bottled water isn’t convenient, filling a few sturdy, clean containers with tap water is a workable option. Pair that with non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking—think canned soups, tuna, beans, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, and energy bars. A small, portable camping stove with fuel can be a lifesaver for preparing warm drinks or basic meals if the power stays out for a while.

Storage tips

Keep water in a cool, dark place and rotate supplies every few months. Use a dedicated tote or box so it’s easy to grab in a hurry. Label your food so you know what you have, and check expiration dates during a routine kit audit. If you’re sharing a car or a small apartment, tailor portions to your space—compact, practical items beat bulky stock that never gets used.

Lighting and power backups

Why this matters

Storm Bram could bring power cuts that last hours or even days. Without light or heat, everyday tasks become energy-sucking chores, and safety risks creep in. A reliable lighting plan means you won’t have to fumble in the dark to check the fuse box or locate a jackknife in an emergency kit.

What to include

Stock a robust flashlight per adult in the household, plus a couple of LED headlamps so you can keep your hands free. Add extra batteries—alkaline or rechargeable—so you don’t get caught mid-use without power. A battery-powered or crank radio helps you stay updated on weather warnings if the internet goes down. A portable power bank (or two) can recharge essential devices like your phone when the mains fail. If you’re planning ahead for longer outages, a small solar charger can keep devices topped up during daylight hours.

Storage tips

Store lighting gear in a waterproof, easy-to-grab tin or bag near your exit routes. Consider keeping a compact, weatherproof emergency radio in your vehicle if you’re traveling during a storm. For those who rely on digital alerts, a charged power bank is a small investment that pays off in peace of mind.

Warmth and clothing

Why this matters

Cold air can creep into the house through gaps and draughts, turning even a short outage into a chilling experience. Staying warm is not just a comfort issue; it’s a health issue, especially for children, older adults, and anyone with respiratory conditions or circulation problems.

What to include

Pack a set of warm clothing for each household member—think thermal layers, wool jumpers, waterproof jackets, a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Add a few blankets or a compact sleeping bag for extra warmth, plus reusable hand warmers for extra cold mornings or late-night wakeups. Don’t forget a small, easy-to-clean blanket for pets if you’re traveling with a furry friend.

Storage tips

Keep warmth gear in an accessible place near your main exit or living area so it’s easy to grab if you’re forced to stay put indoors. Rotate worn items out for fresh ones when you do your kit check, so nothing dries out or loses its thermal value.

First aid and medications

Why this matters

Storms can cause injuries and illnesses from slips on wet surfaces to headaches caused by stress. Having a well-stocked first aid kit plus essential medications on hand helps you address minor issues fast, reducing the risk of bigger problems when help is delayed.

What to include

Assemble a robust first aid kit with plasters of varying sizes, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, and adhesive tape. Include scissors and tweezers, a digital thermometer, and a basic pain reliever. If anyone in the home uses prescription meds, ensure you have a few days’ supply in your kit (and a copy of the prescription if needed). Include an inhaler for asthma sufferers, an epinephrine injector if prescribed, and a small amount of antiseptic cream for minor skin injuries.

Storage tips

Keep medicines in their original packaging with expiry dates visible. Use a dedicated water-resistant pouch to protect supplies from damp. Replace items that are near expiry and keep a log so you know when you last restocked.

Communication and signaling

Why this matters

When storms strike, the ability to contact loved ones or emergency services can be the difference between calm coordination and panic. A clear line of communication ensures you can share your location, check on others, and call for help if needed.

What to include

Carry a charged mobile phone with a portable charger, but don’t rely on it entirely—plan for a backup option such as a dedicated emergency beacon or a whistle to signal for assistance if you’re isolated. A simple, waterproof notebook and a pencil can help you leave a note if you’re not able to call in or out. Keep a hard copy of important numbers (family, neighbours, and local emergency services) in your kit as a fail-safe.

Storage tips

Store your signaling gear in a waterproof bag with your other essential items, ensuring it’s easy to grab on your way out of the house if you need to evacuate. Practice short drills with household members so everyone knows how to use the items quickly and calmly.

Tools for safety around the home

Why this matters

Storms can cause structural issues, falling debris, and slippery surfaces. Having the right tools at hand helps you manage minor hazards safely and keeps you from making risky moves in the moment of stress.

What to include

Include a compact utility knife, duct tape, a multipurpose tool, a small crowbar or pry tool for emergency access, a flashlight with a red safety light mode for preserving night vision, and weatherproof tape to seal gaps or temporary repairs. A thick pair of work gloves protects your hands when you’re dealing with downed branches or damp surfaces.

Storage tips

Keep tools in a dedicated toolbox or bag so you’re not scavenging for them in a hurry. Label compartments for quick access—like “cuts,” “glasses,” or “plugs.” Dry storage is essential; moisture can dull blades and rust hardware, which defeats the purpose of having reliable tools when you need them most.

Home safety items

Why this matters

Power outages aren’t just an inconvenience—they can lead to dangerous situations in the home, especially with families, pets, or vulnerable people present. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and a small fire extinguisher can prevent minor incidents from becoming catastrophes.

What to include

Ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. A compact fire extinguisher rated for household use is a wise addition, especially in kitchens or near heating sources. Include a route map for exiting the home if smoke or water makes a usual route unsafe, and practice a quick evacuation drill with all household members.

Storage tips

Place detectors in line-of-sight locations and test them monthly. Keep the fire extinguisher accessible but out of reach of very young children, and check its pressure gauge and date of last service. Regular checks reduce the chance you’ll discover a faulty safety device only when you need it most.

Important documents and cash

Why this matters

In a storm, banks may fail temporarily, cards may not work, and a paper trail becomes your lifeline. Vital documents and a small amount of cash can help you confirm identity, arrange shelter, or access funds when digital systems are down.

What to include

Keep copies of essential documents (IDs, medical cards, insurance details, prescriptions) in a waterproof sleeve. Include emergency contact details and a list of medications. Carry a modest amount of local currency in small denominations to cover urgent necessities if card payment systems are down.

Storage tips

Use a waterproof, shielded pouch or a small, sturdy folder that can survive a bit of damp. Keep the pouch in a known, accessible place—ideally near your exit point so you can grab it as you leave. Replace any expired documents or outdated contact information during your routine kit review.

A practical plan and survival items

Why this matters

Disaster kit lists work best when they’re not abstract. A simple, practical plan anchors your kit to real-life routines and contingencies—like a go-to meeting point if you’re separated from loved ones, or a chosen shelter in case your home becomes unsafe.

What to include

Write down a two-part plan: (1) household plan—where to meet, how to contact each other, and what to do if someone is home alone; (2) a quick-to-read steps sheet for a variety of scenarios (floods, power cuts, heavy rain, and travel disruption). Include emergency numbers, including local authorities and nearby shelters if necessary. A map of your area with safe routes can also be incredibly valuable for quick decision-making during a crisis.

Storage tips

Hold this plan in a waterproof binder or folder near your kit. Review and update contact numbers, closest shelter locations, and plan details at least twice a year or after a major life change. Your plan should be a living document that evolves with your circumstances and the weather forecast.

Heating resilience and maintenance tips during storms

Why this matters

Winter storms can stress heating systems, especially when power outages hit or the demand spikes. A well-maintained heating system reduces the risk of sudden fails and keeps your home safe and comfortable when the weather outside is unkind.

While your emergency kit covers immediate needs, you also want to look at the long game: how your boiler, radiators, and water system perform in a storm. Routine maintenance is the foundation—think of it as a health check for your home’s heartbeat.

Where to get help

For heating maintenance and rapid support when Bram is at your door, trusted professionals can make a real difference. If you find your system acting up after a storm or you’re preparing ahead of the next drop in temperatures, consider reaching out to Harrow Heating for a professional boiler service, inspection, and advice tailored to your home. They can help ensure your boiler is ready to cope with sudden demand.

Additionally, if you’re thinking about optimizing hot-water and heating efficiency, a central heating power-flush can clear sludge and buildup from radiators and pipes, improving circulation and heating efficiency. This is where Powerflush comes into play, offering a service that can support energy efficiency and reduce future strain on your system. A well-cared-for heating network isn’t just about comfort; it’s about resilience when the weather tests your home.

Putting it all together: practical tips for quick action

Make a grab-and-go kit

Assemble your nine-item kit in a single, accessible tote. Keep everything consolidated so you can grab it in under a minute if you’re evacuating or moving from room to room to avoid hazards. Use clear labeling and a simple checklist on the lid—tick off items as you pack and as you rotate supplies during routine checks.

Do a weather-aware routine

In advance of a storm, review your kit, charge devices, and inspect doors and windows for draughts. If you have a fireplace or an alternative heat source, make sure you have safe, legal ways to use them and adequate ventilation. This is where planning meets preparedness, and where little habits pay off in big ways.

Practice makes preparedness

Run light drills with family members—who grabs what, where to regroup, and how to call for help if phones fail. Short rehearsals reduce panic and help you act quickly when it matters most. The more familiar you are with your kit, the more you’ll rely on it rather than improvising in a crisis.

Conclusion: storms pass, preparedness stays

Storm Bram can feel like nature’s loud reminder that the world is bigger than our daily routines. Yet preparedness is a quiet, practical discipline you can practice year-round. A well-thought-out emergency kit, combined with regular checks and smart heating maintenance, keeps your home safer and more comfortable when severe weather hits. By stocking the essentials, you’re trading uncertainty for a steadier sense of control—and that’s priceless when the wind howls and the rain pummels your door.

Remember to look after your heating system before and after storms. If you’re considering a professional tune-up or a thorough cleaning of your central heating system, you might find value in speaking with specialists like Harrow Heating for heating services, and Powerflush for power flushing to optimize efficiency and reliability. Together with a practical emergency kit, these steps help you weather Bram with confidence rather than dread.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep that kit close. The wind will change, but your readiness can stay strong.

FAQs

What is the most important item to have in an emergency kit for storms?

While every item on the list has its purpose, water and a reliable light source top the priority list. Water sustains you, and light keeps you safe and oriented when power is out. Combine these with a plan and you’re well placed to ride out the worst conditions.

How often should I review and refresh my emergency kit?

Aim for a quarterly quick check and a full refresh every six to twelve months. Rotate food and water, check batteries, test alarms, and replace anything that’s near expiry. Regular maintenance keeps your kit fresh and ready.

What if I have pets in the house?

Add a pet-focused subset to your kit: extra water and snacks for pets, a spare leash or carrier, wet wipes for cleanliness, and any medication your pet needs. Make sure your plan includes pet-safe shelter options and that your emergency communications cover all household members, including animals.

Should I invest in a generator for storms?

Generators can be valuable, but they require careful safety considerations and correct usage to prevent hazards like carbon monoxide poisoning or fire. If you’re considering one, research yourself or consult a professional to ensure it’s suitable for your home and know-how to operate it safely.

How can I support my home’s heating system during long outages?

Regular maintenance reduces failure risk. Consider a professional service from Harrow Heating for boiler inspection and a power flush via Powerflush to maintain efficient heating. If you notice reduced heat output or strange noises, address it early to prevent a breakdown during a storm.