Preparedness | Power outages

Ham radio go-kit list for power outages

A power-outage radio kit should keep communication simple: a charged radio, usable antenna, spare power, printed information, and a household plan. The kit should be easy to find in the dark and simple enough for a tired person to use.

Core Radio Items

• Programmed handheld or mobile radio.
• Printed repeater, simplex, and weather frequency list.
• Better antenna and any needed adapters.
• Spare battery or 12V power cable.
• Notebook, pencil, and message forms.

Power and Lighting

• USB-C battery bank for phones and small devices.
• Radio-specific spare batteries or charger cradle.
• 12V battery or power station if using a mobile/base radio.
• Headlamp or small LED light.
• Charging cables labeled by device.

Household Communication Items

Include printed phone numbers, addresses, out-of-area contacts, medication notes, meeting places, and check-in windows. Radio is only one layer. The written plan is what keeps everyone aligned.