Look for NOAA Weather Radio
The radio should specifically support NOAA Weather Radio frequencies, not just AM/FM.
Prefer alerts and backup power
Tone alerts, battery backup, hand crank, or solar charging can help during outages.
Keep it accessible
Store it with spare batteries and teach household members where it is.
Midland ER310 Emergency Crank Weather Radio
A battery or hand-crank NOAA weather radio helps you receive official weather alerts.
Includes: One radio with a rechargeable battery and Micro-USB charging cable.
Best for: A separate source of weather alerts if phone service fails.
Compare: Charge it before the storm and check local weather-channel reception. Its six AA backup batteries and wall adapter are sold separately.
Phone alerts are useful, but batteries and cell networks can fail.
Midland X-Talker T10 FRS Two-Way Radios
Helps household members coordinate nearby when phone service is unreliable.
Best for: Nearby family coordination with a practiced channel plan.
Compare: Buildings and terrain reduce advertised range. Confirm the exact FRS model and battery requirements.
Pealess emergency whistles
A small signaling tool can be kept within reach on each household go-bag.
Best for: A simple signal when calling out is difficult.
Compare: Choose a pealess design and accessible attachment. Practice your household signal.
Battery-powered AM/FM radio
A simple broadcast radio offers another way to hear local news during internet and power outages.
Best for: Local broadcasts as a companion to a NOAA weather radio.
Compare: Check battery operation and local reception. An AM/FM radio alone does not receive NOAA weather alerts.
Paper road atlas or local map book
Keeps routes available when a phone battery or internet connection fails.
Best for: Offline route reference during evacuation.
Compare: Choose the correct region and a current edition. Mark your planned destinations and follow official road closures.
Water-resistant notepad and marker
Keeps written contacts, meeting points, and instructions available during an outage.
Best for: Recording instructions without a charged device.
Compare: Compare page size and legibility when damp. Write important household contacts before the storm.
