How to Organize a Blackout Box for Emergencies

[@humblehomestead3190]

On my blackout box we labeled/ used reflective tape-comes from the auto section so you can find in the dark without needing any source of light!

[@SimplyCherie]

Great idea! I have reflective wristbands in our bug out bags. I think they would work here, too.

[@humblehomestead3190]

Have you thought of putting in a deck of cards or small games? Something to keep you entertained!

[@patsyg331]

@@humblehomestead3190 She talks about that around 17:25 🎲🃏

[@MrsPumpkinCat]

Reflective tape reflects light, so how do you see it without a light source?

[@TriniSimpleLiving]

Hi, I like the term Blackout box. I sure will implement this idea in my prepping

[@algloriadawson7666]

Just a word of caution - be careful about how your batteries are oriented in your storage box - opposite poles contacting can cause a fire. Better to leave them in their wrapping until you need them for two reasons. The fire issue, and you can retain the info about the expiry date

[@TheTamrock2007]

I just put a piece if electrical tape over the terminal. No more fire issue.

[@leemartin9156]

I think Lithium Ion batteries (button cell and rechargeable etc) don't like cold. Not sure about NiCad. It may be ok for the old style lead acid batteries.... Can also cover ends in tape but sticky stuff may cause issue later when taking tape off and installing - not making good contact. Maybe put each size in small zip lock in a way where ends don't touch, then put these in that larger bag.... Just some thoughts.

[@sheilaallen2146]

I didn't know that thank you

[@johnbannister501]

Especially for the "button type" batteries.

[@robc.5745]

I myself prefer rechargeable flashlights with a good battery. usb charging.

[@dinamateria7722]

You may want to store the batteries out of the lanterns and flashlights. The batteries leak over time.

[@SimplyCherie]

Hi Dina. I was debating about that with myself. But I will take your advice and others who have commented the same thing.

[@lemyaknight]

The leak happened to me and ruined the connectors in the lanterns😔

[@Preppergirl10]

@@lemyaknight soda can be used in some cases to get rid of battery corrosion

[@MissDeb-jq6nz]

I was thinking that... A separate container, like those long, plastic cracker containers or just another mesh bag to hold them separately...

[@LA-xn7hu]

Just put the batteries in the wrong way.

[@VinceDiaz]

I prefer glow sticks instead of the tea light candles. They are great for kids because a blackout can be a little stressful and if you tell a kid that a glow stick can be their nightlight it cheers them up. Also I put the bracelet type glowsticks in my kit and we put them on the restroom and bedroom door nob to make them easier to see in the dark.

[@kj7653]

Your tetris skills are amazing.

[@SimplyCherie]

Omg I LOVE this comment! I was a Tetris freak for years. There’s a movie coming out “Tetris” with Taron Egerton. I always say you just have to play Tetris when you’re organizing.

[@swcomment5542]

There’s one more really important thing that I think you should add to your bag. They’re sold at target and I think they’re called ShowerPill wipes. They were developed for athletes but they can completely give you a bath with one of these wipes. I bought them for my grandson last year and we keep them in our emergency and long term survival kits.

[@SimplyCherie]

Great idea. Yes, I have those but in a different kit and for camping. You are an awesome grandmother!

[@nebelwerfer9596]

Couldnt find it on Target's site, but did on Amazon.

[@TerryElisabeth]

Your channel should be called "Cherie Thinks of Everything" 😄 Excellent ... just excellent ❤❤❤

[@SimplyCherie]

Wow, thank you. You're always so sweet.

[@MizRuthie]

Ww

[@MizRuthie]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y33alat8arigarc qwq

[@MizRuthie]

W

[@catalhuyuk7]

I agree. Cherie is awesome! Someone to aspire to become.

[@crystaljefferson2182]

Battery operated fairy lights are great for bathrooms at night when the power is out. After Christmas clearance is the best time to get them.

[@Preppergirl10]

I have some of those

[@deniseweatherspoon6983]

Crystal Jefferson I hung glow in the dark bracelets on the toilet tissue holder during a power outage. Easy to find the toilet at night.

[@tngardener231]

I keep some on my mantle and in the window sill of each bedroom. I use them every time the power is out.

[@kirk1968]

Fantastic idea! There are so many varieties and string lengths that would definitely be useful.

[@jenniferpecha4393]

After hurricane Irma I added a set of 10 inch battery operated fans to my kit. They won't blow you away but they would have been a tremendous help in the Florida heat after the power went out. They run on 6 D batteries but worth every penny in that kind of situation.

[@brendapayne6603]

What brand did you get? I have old O2Cool battery fans but I would like to upgrade. Thanks.

[@pattijack]

I bought usb fans, they work great with the portable power stations ( I have 2 Jackery units). Batteries get too expensive and don’t last all that long. I run my lights and even my portable ice maker off the power stations. This is the way to go! Facing a major tropical storm as I speak, I feel totally prepared. I can run my house table lamps with my Jackery 1000 with no issues and to know I can make ice is a plus! I also have solar powered flashlights.

[@jenniferpecha4393]

@@pattijack A Jackery is next on our list but not everyone can afford an item like that (or two). Especially right now.

[@WanderfulWorldofTravel]

Totally agree! After being without power in a hurricane in Florida, the battery operated fan was among the essentials that we needed the most! Obviously food and power and water are important, but the heat and humidity can be very dangerous after a hurricane.

[@jenniferpecha4393]

@@brendapayne6603 We got the O2Cool fans as well.

[@carolyncclark7197]

Great presentation. You have such a clear, nice voice. You explain and demonstrate everything well. Thanks for telling where to purchase the items, too.

[@brianhoskins1979]

If building a box from scratch (so buying new gear as opposed to finding what's already available around the home) I would advise choosing electrical items which share the same battery platform as much as possible. That way, if the blackout lasts longer than anticipated so that you start to run low on batteries, you can at least share the power around the devices you need most. Where as if they use a lot of different batteries, your options are limited in that respect.

[@SimplyCherie]

Love this, Brian. Thank you for the advice.

[@kimbers1238]

I live in Louisiana. I call it a hurricane box. Lol. But its for the same reason.

[@SimplyCherie]

Oh yes, I have heard it referred to that. The name says it all. Perfect!

[@moniquemc4553]

I always love how organized and well thought out you are

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you, Monique!

[@sleepingcolours]

I started putting together my own blackout kit because of this video. You are very organized and explain everything thoroughly. Thank you so much!! 🖤

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bretjoramo1393]

the mrs. here...great video! after 21 days without power, (7/18-8/7/2020), it was good to run across your video. some things we learned...having a flashlight in every room to find our way to the blackout box; use unscented tea lights or candles; some gas stoves need electric to work; and keep a glowstick in it's original wrapping in the shower caddy ... power outages seldom happen when convenient, lol. keeping batteries out of items and in original packaging is a great suggestion. i wish we would of had the personal fans and cooling towels as we were breaking heat records during july...they will be getting added asap! labeling will be getting added as well. " i " know what's what, but the mr. was in the dark, (sorry, i couldn't resist the pun, lol). thank you!

[@SimplyCherie]

Wow Mrs. Why did you not have power for that long? Yes, I am adding flashlights to each room upstairs. I have them downstairs already. Genius idea with the glow stick in the shower caddy. I actually think our water needs electricity. I have camping stoves. So true about power outages seldom happening when convenient lol

[@YT4Me57]

I love the radio. Must get one. I don't leave batteries in my camping/emergency lamps. They are used so infrequently, I find they tend to leak over time. I keep batteries in a separate location (nearby). I just bought a pack of D batteries, just before Hurricane Isaias hit New York. Didn't need them but I found peace in knowing that they were available.

[@SimplyCherie]

I've always wondered about leaving batteries in. I've had batteries in the green camping lantern for years. So I have not had that bad experience.

[@gonens6056]

Nice organization , I would recommend to ditch the D batteries and focus on AA batteries , It will save space , also what about a phone charger power bank ? And maybe a solar panel to charge it ?

[@samanthahillburhop581]

Headlamps would be great for this. My husband and I were at a motel in Whistler BC Canada for a ski trip in Dec '19. BC hydro turned off the power for a couple of hours. I had my headlamp & a pen light flashlight with me (ok, so I'm a girl scout and believe in being prepared) husband took my headlamp and I used my flashlight. Will be adding a second headlamp in my setup for him. I use those mesh bags for my cross stitch projects and knitting

[@SimplyCherie]

Are they part of your emergency kit in your car? Great use of the mesh bags for your projects.

[@samanthahillburhop581]

No I carry them in my backpack. Guess you would call it my EDC.

[@cecilr7986]

Simply Cherie. Your channel is simply wonderful.

[@SimplyCherie]

Aw thank you!

[@Tamara_D]

Solar yard stakes are great to use. Unscrew or pop off the stake and keep the tops.

[@SimplyCherie]

You know I saw someone do that. I forgot who. But I did take a look at The Dollar Tree. I would only get there for the price. I still have it on my list. Thank you!

[@michelebcombs5016]

I have NEVER thought about having one of these emergency boxes. Thanks a million. Once I put mine together I'll let you know what I've done.

[@SimplyCherie]

Yes, please let me know here or dm on Instagram.

[@michelebcombs5016]

@@SimplyCherie I don't have Instagram but I will let you know when I'm done.

[@emilasmith4279]

Just awesome. I’m going to rethink my plan. I have a display hutch in a central room on the main floor of my home. In all the drawers I have all the same supplies for power outages also labeled and in containers. It is within arms length of the designated go to closet under the stairs in the event of a tornado. ( no basement). I just had to use my stuff on a recent power outage. I have flashlights in every room of my house to help to navigate around to get to this central supply. Your kit is more portable. I think I will make up a duplicate bin like yours for a mobile kit. I keep similar supplies in my car. Definitely will invest in those mesh bags. I have a lot of supplies stored similarly in large zip lock bags. Tfs!!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Love it, Emila. You are prepared. So making this mobile kit is just taking it to the next level for you.

[@valmuse2]

This just made my heart so happy. I’ll be putting one together for my family.

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome! Your family will appreciate it.

[@nagaempress]

I love to prepare for stuff and I've never thought of a blackout box! I'm so excited to have just found your Channel! New subby here

[@SimplyCherie]

Welcome! You know how there was that commercial, "I have an app for that"? Well, I have a kit for that or I have a box for that. lol

[@marylandgirl7358]

It would be helpful to note the phone number of your power company on the front of the note pad. Then you can call and report your outage. I find power gets turned on faster this way, in my area.

[@SimplyCherie]

Love it! Will do!

[@unitedheartsamerica5924]

Gas company number too - write down should there be a gas emergency. We had such an emergency and had to evacuate. If our phones or elec were not working we would lose time.. we should all have a hand written book of phones numbers and email addresses.. (goin old school!)😉

[@Grip_ItandrRip_It]

Save the number in your phone. Many utilities can also tell you how long power will be out in your area. And have a power bank to charge you phone.

[@roxannerodriguez7075]

This was cooler than I was expecting. Our power went out today and I sure wish I was prepared like you are! I'll be working on my blackout box for sure!

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad you thought it was cool. And even better that you’ve made one.

[@katedunstan895]

This is great. I have built a box like this after watching your video. So impressed.

[@SimplyCherie]

That is awesome!

[@shondacheesecake]

This is a great idea! 💡 I'd also add a solar phone charger.

[@cherylmarshall6874]

Great idea. I need to find one. Thanks

[@SimplyCherie]

Thanks, Shonda. The hand-crank weather radio is actually charged by battery or by solar power. And then it has a place to plug the phone. So it becomes a solar phone charger.

[@SimplyCherie]

The hand-crank weather radio is also a solar phone charger.

[@shondacheesecake]

@@SimplyCherie oops... Never mind lol

[@ryanbthiesant2307]

I just want to add, do not leave the batteries in the appliances. This causes them to leak. Just have a bag with the batteries separated. Preferably in a packet. Really important for coming to use an appliance and finding that it is actually full of acid.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you, Ryan. Others have told me that. I appreciate it.

[@labradorite8256]

This was more for camping, but regarding lights(because you covered them so thoroughly) I got a battery operated sensor light to leave on the table outside the tent or caravan. It was very handy for night trips, would light my way out of the tent without waking everyone inside the tent. It may also have kept possums away.

[@SimplyCherie]

Great idea! I also saw a video where he has a motion sensor attached to the car/rv like the ones under a kitchen cabinet.

[@pamelajackson495]

Very practical and innovative! Thank you!

[@SimplyCherie]

Thanks, Pamela.

[@wiinidiaz]

Thank you for sharing, Cherie. Invaluable. 😊

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@judiehavard4903]

If power is out quite a while have some clothes line rope and clothes pins. For washing some of your clothes. And hang them to dry outside. And 2 large containers for washing . one for soap and the other for rinsing. Do not use as much soap only a FEW DROPS of soap is necessary in the container. Or you will not be able to rinse out all the soap.

[@s.leeyork3848]

This is so we'll thouhgt-out! Thank you.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you so much.

[@vm1776]

I'd recommend keeping a flashlight in pretty much every room. being in the basement trying to find a flashlight in the pitched dark isn't fun. But if you know where flashlights are all over the house, you can get to one even if it's not a great one and then find the rest of the family and the better flashlights and make sure everyone's ok. I assume most people know to call the power company, but most of our neighbors assume someone else will call. so we call immediately and check back on status regularly.

[@yolandarowe3094]

I'm always surprised to find that I'm reporting a 'new' outage, when it occurred while I was out and about. (Notification from home hub pinpoints when it happened hour before I got back.)

[@betsyadams9670]

Dealt with that a few months ago. Usually have my phone but didn’t that night. Have flashlights in the living room and bedrooms but not the kitchen. I went out and bought wearable head lanterns and hung them in hooks for the kitchen and hall. My house is pitch black when the power goes out.

[@samanthaboutte3677]

Flairs would go perfect in there too! That is a perfect box to put together for Hurricane season! (Louisiana born and raised)

[@joansommerfield8419]

Just found your channel and so appreciate how clear and detailed this has been. Look forward to seeing how you approach other topics. I live in an area with potential tornados, ice storms and flooding. Having this type of box would certainly give peace of mind.

[@SimplyCherie]

Wow those are things to definitely prepare for. And I can see how prepping for an ice storm while at home would be slightly different than prepping for one while in a vehicle. Thank you for your appreciation and welcome!

[@amyhoran7048]

Brilliant organization! Thank you for sharing your ideas. LOVE the labeling!!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you, Amy!

[@TheTamrock2007]

Glad I ran across your channel. I love this black out box. Thinking of making one as a Christmas gift for my grown sons. One thing I do when storing loose batteries is putting a piece of electrical tape over the terminal. To prevent accidental fire.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you, Tammy. Others have commented on the fire risk so I bought a D batteries container and have since put them in there. What a great idea for a Christmas gift. I might do the same and a more edited version for budget restrictions. lol

[@unitedheartsamerica5924]

You are my new Martha Stewart. A for real lady! Love your style! 💜💜

[@SimplyCherie]

What a wonderful compliment. Thank you bunches!

[@gloriaoneil8685]

Thank you for your video on blackout box . I did it and I’m so grateful for it. I’m in Texas a d I have being without power for 3days you have no idea how helpful this has been!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Oh Gloria. I so appreciate this comment and you taking the time to say this. I was watching the news like a hawk and praying for everyone. And just feeling upset, wishing I was there to give my preps, water, and heat sources. I hope you and your family are ok and recovering. I'm sorry for such an unfortunate event. I am so glad that this helped you and you were prepared.

[@ashjoma]

I’m in Australia and my town had a very bad storm a few years back and electricity was out for 6 days. I could have used this. I had a small gas heater (was mid winter) that didn’t require electricity. Had to shower at work and recharge my mobile there as work had a generator running. Drove to the next town for a hot meal as that town wasn’t affected. Apart from that it was dark, cold and miserable for 6 days.

[@thegmanviews11]

ashjoma I live in Australia also. Have a blackout box as we. Those blankets she had are really great, we had a few and didn’t quite understand how to use them and went o Summernats and got a couple for free and they were the best part of the day. I also have some of those heat warmers also as it gets absolutely freezing - it’s forecast to snow this weekend - we luckily have a fire which during a couple of blackouts during winter has been such a bonus. I have a couple of those handy portable chargers for our phones and iPads. We keep them charged up as well as our phones and iPads. Luckily our stovetop is gas, last blackout we had my mil had to use her BBQ to cook lunch and dinner, I did heat some water for her and filled her thermos’s up so they could have cuppas. I buy those coffee satchels for road trips and blackouts as they are just so handy. Wipes are great for a wipe over if your blackout lasts too long.

[@ashjoma]

Adam & Kel Gay Thanks. My area has snow predicted for later this week too. I’ll make sure I’ve got batteries and torches ready. And I’ve got some mobile phone and iPad portable chargers, so I’ll charge them up too now you’ve mentioned it. Just in case....I’m on the central tablelands area west of Sydney.

[@thegmanviews11]

ashjoma oh really, where are you? I’m near Goulburn in the Southern Tablelands.

[@ashjoma]

Adam & Kel Gay Top of the Blue Mountains but possibly moving to Oberon at some stage. When I go to Canberra I usually go the back way via Oberon and Black Springs and come out at Goulburn. Goulburn is very very very cold.

[@thegmanviews11]

ashjoma such a small world 🌎 🌍 yeah Goulburn is gold. We live 45 k from Goulburn toward Canberra, it’s a different climate this way. I always love comments when people say they are in Australia doing the prepping thing. Oberon would be much better.

[@FrankMoore]

Thanks Cherie! We are from Chicago, like you. We get terrible springtime storms and the power is knocked out at least once a year. We are creating a blackout box similar to yours. Great job!

[@SimplyCherie]

Hi Frank. I was telling my kids all the things my dad did to prepare for those Chicago winters. Specifically, he would tape plastic around all the windows and make sure we had our thermals ready. He also stocked up on salt and checked all the supplies for each car - chains, ice scraper, etc. and every car got a tune up. And of course, he made sure we knew how to work the snow shovel and snow blower lol

[@auntyv]

Great idea! Thinking about doing this to keep under my bed. And the flashlight as a weapon - actually the non-lighted end has cutouts in the rim specifically designed for that reason.

[@Joani161]

Thank You. Fine steel wool and flint for fire starting or 9 volt battery touched to steel wool.

[@SimplyCherie]

Good idea.

[@TXJan0057]

Those type of thin plastic water bottles tend to leak. Even houses heated by gas generally have electric blowers and thermostats. I really like how organized the box is.

[@SimplyCherie]

Hmmm…I’ll check them. Thank you.

[@kathymays4896]

Great job on your kits. I enjoyed learning from you.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you. I appreciate the compliment.

[@crickettjd]

Great ideas, great information. Another thing I always do is label each item with the type and amount of batteries each item needs, so I don't have to wait until I get the back open and fumble around to find that information. If you have one of those Coleman lanterns that use fuel, you could even put the fuel, wick, etc, information on it so you have that at the ready and can buy extra to have on hand and store them with the lantern. We also keep the Dollar Tree solar yard stakes on hand for lighting, free power and they are only $1.00.

[@SimplyCherie]

ok genius tip - thank you!

[@DeeCee84]

I live in AZ also and this video was right on time. Going to start prepping a box for my home tomorrow.

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome, Dee! Let me know if you think of something else needed for us Arizonans.

[@Dotalina33]

I have a medical emergency box under my bed. Same concept but bandages and a whole plethora of things to take care of cuts, bleeding, extra prescriptions, etc. I and my kids have used this box more times than I can count. Bee sting sticks, homeopathic remedies, cold stuff. It’s there. The box is flat and about 20” x 30”. Awesome. Stops the panic when injured.

[@SimplyCherie]

Love it! My medical emergency kit needs a little updating/adding. May I ask why you chose it to be under your bed?

[@Dotalina33]

@@SimplyCherie the only place I could find to put it. But the big plus is all my kids and grandkids can go to it immediately without digging. AND they have many times.

[@SimplyCherie]

@@Dotalina33 Love your thought process.

[@barbakartchner5812]

Thank you so much for the work you put into your preparedness videos. They are so well organized and show the amount of thought you put into them. We are old hands at being prepared but you have given me additional ideas. Hopefully your viewers will take your advice to heart. We live in a rural area and have a well on our property so we must have buckets of water available to flush the toilet. Once again thanks so much and stay safe! Ps. I love Spam and don't care who knows

[@SimplyCherie]

That must be a good thing to have a well. Welcome to the Secret Spam Society...that is not so secret!

[@LifeGoesNorth]

What a great set up! Thanks for the ideas!

[@SimplyCherie]

You are so welcome!

[@prepperpatty199]

I will put my solar phone charger in my blackout box . Great idea will gather all up and do a box like this. Love those camp lights. Thanks great video!Will also upgrade to a battery/solar radio like that one.

[@SimplyCherie]

Sounds like a great plan!

[@jessicacanfield5408]

Thank you for this video. On your fan. I have one that is similar for work and I use it all day 5 days a week and it is very comfortable. The things that give M out every 2 to3 days is the batteries

[@paulaclark7989]

Great idea 👏👏👏 thank you. 😊

[@SimplyCherie]

You’re welcome. Have a nice weekend, Paula.

[@BenA-bu1cz]

Great idea and very useful....thanks for sharing.👍

[@SimplyCherie]

Most welcome 😊

[@Copolia]

Such a good idea. Thanks Cherie.

[@SimplyCherie]

You are so welcome!

[@dafnidonascimento2384]

I loved the way you organized everything! thanks for sharing

[@SimplyCherie]

You are so welcome!

[@seniletravel7171]

Excellent presentation! Thank you!

[@SimplyCherie]

You're very welcome!

[@yaivajoni]

Just an idea to add to your box a battery organizer box with battery tester.

[@SimplyCherie]

Yes! I got the organizer box and am actually liking it better, not just for eliminating the fire hazard but for the aesthetics. I have a battery tester with my other batteries in my pantry on the wall. But I can list the battery tester as a future prep.

[@glenmaturityinbasics5430]

Love the Intro!!! ♥️♥️♥️ thank you so much for sharing this. Definitely will do a blackout box! Thank you!!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Yay! Thank you. It will be worth it.

[@ashjoma]

What a great idea. I wouldn’t have thought of that.

[@Fiesta-2014]

What a great video . Survival mode 👍 Thanks for sharing

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you 👍

[@stevinski12]

Some how i found you today, WOW! iv stocked up on items also but obviously I need more...Thanks for the tips 👍

[@SimplyCherie]

Welcome! Yes, keep prepping!

[@elwiub]

Great idea...thanks! 😊

[@SimplyCherie]

You are so welcome!

[@rogerp7030]

Thank you for the tips. The only thing I might change is the lantern. I would get a model that has variable brightness instead of just a single setting. That way you can extend run time if you only need low light. I have personally invested in lanterns, flashlight, and fans that use rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion batteries

[@SimplyCherie]

Thanks, Roger, for the tip. I will have to do more work on rechargeable batteries. I got kind of discouraged investing in them and chargers and them not lasting long at all. If you have a particular one/s that you recommend, please drop the link here. Thank you.

[@Lisaairbnb]

Well done!! So organized and well equipped. Ty for ideas

[@SimplyCherie]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@michaellogan8676]

Fantastic!!!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Many thanks!

[@kirk1968]

Greetings from a fellow Phoenician, you're absolutely right about our summer temperatures 😅 This was great and gave me more ideas about what to have in my blackout box. Those mesh bags are awesome, aren't they? So versatile and durable. God bless!

[@SimplyCherie]

Hi! Glad to hear from a fellow Phoenician. I am working on my water supply and water capture. I will have one for my garden and the other will be a blue water tank. I already have a water bob and life straws. Any suggestions?

[@kirk1968]

Sounds like you are on the right track, I'm in a condo and can't capture water with blue tanks unfortunately. I think you have the bases covered! Lifestraws are good, I have a Sawyer Squeeze but am also going to get a Grayl press filter bottle as a backup. Purification tablets are also good to have, P&G ones from Amazon are supposed to be good at killing all the bugs. Joseph in the Old Testament was the ultimate prepper I think 😁

[@tngardener231]

I like the battery operated T lights to put on every other stair and I keep battery operated light strips installed under my kitchen cabinets. I got them at Walmart and they are oval and bright. Our power goes out a lot so I stay ready

[@SimplyCherie]

I love that idea of every other stair. I also have USB battery rechargeable light strips under my kitchen cabinets. I got them from Lowe's. However, I have found them to last only 1 night's worth. But I am sure they will last longer with regular batteries.

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

Checked out mesh bags and the smallest number available is 18 bags. Also as you are looking at the products, if you scroll down they offer select “bundles” of products you may be interested in. They had the mesh bags bundled with a couple of other items for 1 price. Had a sweet looking hand crank radio with solar power, USB port. Amazon may be the way to go for most all of it. Our WM hardly has any camping stuff anymore and it’s the only store around. No Office Max, Staples, etc. Haven’t finished watching so don’t know if she mentions rotating batteries if the box goes too long without use. But it’s an awesome emergency box. That flashlight is great! If anyone out there is a fan of NCIS you will remember that Gibbs’ rule #9 is “never go anywhere without a knife.” I have several of the small ones like she shows. They come in handy.

[@SimplyCherie]

Nice. I actually need to get a knife. I didn't mention rotating batteries. But yes, that should be done. I go through all my kits in September (National Preparedness Month) and March (Spring Cleaning).

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

@@SimplyCherie I didn’t know that about September. I only know that’s when my birthday is! So good reminder for my birthday. We live in a 20’ travel trailer so we keep all important documents in folders locked in our truck. In case anything happens I don’t want to have to worry about them. Also keep a small GO bag packed. The bag I use is enough to be a purse but it has 24 hrs worth of stuff in it. Toiletries, stuff to sleep in, chg of underclothes, a small journal, and a few other things need/want. They say 72 hrs worth is better because if you can last that long (psychologically I imagine) you can probably make it. I figured as long as I’m not stepping out of the shower when the stuff hits the fan I’m good! Of course we all know that disaster gives very little warning if any!

[@mateo1726]

Pre-staging glow sticks in their bag above every door isn’t a bad idea. So if the power goes out you can quickly access a glow stick if you can’t find a flash light. I throw a small solar panel and batter bank with assorted charging cables as well.

[@SimplyCherie]

Love these ideas. Thank you.

[@RobynG70]

This is a great video with excellent ideas. Be careful storing your batteries loose outmof their original package though. If the ends touch for too long a period they can heat up and start a fire.

[@SimplyCherie]

Good tip! I will change the storage for them. I ordered D battery containers.

[@DARTHDANSAN]

It’s so nice and organized great job. I just keep my head lamps and power power banks and my anker power banks and luci latern in plastic containers. But it’s all thrown together lol . Greet stuff !!!!👍👍👍👍👍

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you.

[@brendapayne6603]

A wonderful common sense video, thanks! I subscribed.

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome, thank you!

[@taylorgontkovic4543]

New Here, Glad I stumble upon your Vlog, great organization...When my babies were just that I had everything in a totes, lol , totes for everything, now their grow and I kinda let all go ,here & there, but after watching you , I really need to get more organized again...Thanks....

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad to hear you'll get more organized. This is for my own sanity.

[@debkellar715]

I bought a camping lantern that had has a mode for sending a did signal which I thought was good to have especially if you need help in really bad situations.

[@SimplyCherie]

I didn't know those existed. I'll have to add that to my shopping list.

[@belleparlor]

Awesome video Cheri. I’m in Florida so this was helpful TFS

[@SimplyCherie]

So glad! I hope all is ok.

[@DB-xo6xh]

Great vid! I just had my power go out in The Bay Area, CA for a little while. There's a huge wind storm here! I prep constantly but it was very nice to find your video. Thanks!

[@DB-xo6xh]

Also! Those clear heavy duty zip bags can be found at Daiso for $1.50 if u have one by you.😁

[@SimplyCherie]

Oh I didn't hear about that. Glad you are ok.

[@SimplyCherie]

Ugh. No Daiso here. But we try to go to one if we are in Cali.

[@becgould3772]

Gone through my second black out this year, I do not keep those things in a box! My are set up were I need light and ready to go, yes the power goes off a lot in my part of Australia! If you still have water pressure you can still have a fast hot shower. Battery back up for phones (yes I have a few) are a really really good idea. Also if you can get ice pack your freezer out with it it will help save your food or you can use bottle water that's been frozen. If you have a gas cook top you can still cook get long candle lighters, a camp kettle is a great thing it means you can still have a coffee.

[@SimplyCherie]

I have emergency lights in my house and backup battery packs for our phones always charged. Glad you are prepared for all those power outages.

[@TheTamrock2007]

Oh I just thought of a good thing to add. Solar light bulbs. They look like a regular bulb and come with a little solar board with a hook to hang it easily. I ordered them from Amazon a couple of years ago and they work great. $10

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome, Tammy. Someone suggested the solar yard lights from The Dollar Tree. Then you take the light and put it in a mason jar, which I have seen before. But I like your suggestion because of the hooks. Those would be very functional. I'll go put them in my Amazon Wish List.

[@grumpyoldphart7325]

Great ideas!

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad you think so!

[@elizabethburke791]

Batteries are best stored exactly as the come in the package,yet negative ends in the same direction, for fire safety reasons.Plastic containers especially for batteries can be purchased at a Dollar store.

[@ErikZarth]

I would add power banks, lots of them. Went through a week long power outage last year and drained 4 power banks within 3 days. That lacking has now been remedied.

[@SimplyCherie]

Ok thanks for that advice.

[@thangtrinh3237]

I know about electronics and batteries so I have a few suggestion to you: - First of all, you might have heard people suggesting you to take batteries out in case they leak and it's true, they are Alkaline batteries and they do leak (when they are dead and you leave them in your devices for too long or when you mixing old and new battery, or for no reason at all). You might had a nice experience with batteries that don't leak(yet) even when you keep them in your devices for years but there is a chance that they will leak and have a potential to destroy your devices. Judging from your preparedness I don't think that you are a person that like to take chance. So do you have to take all batteries out of your devices and leave them empty all the time ? *No, just replace Alkaline battery with Nimh battery and you are fine, Nimh battery don't leak like Alkaline* and your devices always ready to turn on at any moment. Nimh batteries available in AA, AAA, C and D size (I recommend getting brand name like Eneloop, Energizer, Duracell). You need a charger to charge Nimh batteries tho, I recommend you get the one with micro usb or usb c input so you can use powerbank to charge your Nimh batteries in power outage. - Secondly, your little hand crank solar emergency radio is not as good as you think. The solar panel is just too small to put out any significant current, it can barely charge the radio itself after like a full day of sunlight. Using the solar panel to charge itself AND another devices is just wishful thinking (welp, technically it's possible if you have a few weeks). Using the hand crank is also a pain to charge another devices (charging the radio with the hand crank is actually fine, a radio is not a power hungry device after all, unlike smartphones). The hand crank would put out around 200ma to 500ma so to charge your phone it would take like 10 hours (or likely more time) of cranking to fully charged the phone. I suggest you to drain your radio battery and test it (just turn the radio and all the light on until the battery is dead and try cranking to charge your phone, you will understand lol) - So what is the solution here ? A high capacity powerbank (buy the one with 20000mah capacity or more on Amazon, just choose a cheaper powerbank with nice reviews and you are fine, no need to choose expensive brand name one) and *a 10w foldable solar panel* . Yes you need at least 10w solar panel to realistically charge your phone and another USB device in a few hours under direct sunlight (the small solar panel on your radio is likely 0.1 to 0.2 w only, very little power output). 10w solar panel is fine but 15w or 20w is even better so buy them if you can.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you for all this helpful info. I have a generator and solar panel now. I will get a powerbank and check out Nimh batteries.

[@frederiqueboukeras6491]

Dang, loved that little radio, sweet gadget

[@maxinehope278]

Great job you gave me more to get. Thanks!!!

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome!

[@FrankTerranova1]

Great Blackout Box Ideas. Thoughtful and well organized. Recommend Lithium Batteries like energizer ultimate. They have a longer shelf life & and are less likely to leak.

[@SimplyCherie]

Thank you, Frank. I need to learn more about batteries.

[@jjbuttercup84]

That's awesome! Thanks for sharing.

[@SimplyCherie]

You bet!

[@k9raja]

Thank you for putting this together. Lots and lots of good ideas.

[@justcece9082]

I was looking for a video for blackout kit video just incase my area loose power during the summer months. Summer is right around the corner and I don't know what kind of summer we are going have here on the east coast. And your blackout box video made sense to me its was well organized and you covered everything .

[@slhemp3556]

This is the first time I’ve watched your channel, it won’t be the last, I just subscribed. I would rank this video as one of the top five videos I’ve seen on KZbin in 2020. Thank you for sharing.

[@SimplyCherie]

Wow, thank you! Your compliment is very generous. I am humbled. If you don't mind sharing your other top 5, I would like to watch them.

[@couponoverflow]

Lol. That was too funny...."boing" versus "boink" when using flashlight as a weapon.

[@SimplyCherie]

lol. Thanks for catching that.

[@cheyennesutton2055]

This is a great idea! Thank you!

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@1PurdyG1rL]

Great tips! Thank you for sharing!

[@roninvirtues8012]

First time viewer, great video 💯👍🏻

[@SimplyCherie]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@jessicacanfield5408]

Also walmart has body warmers and if you have no heat in Arizona in the winter they would come in handy. My husband and I n.v used to go camping in Tucson in the winter with friends and it was sooo cold some times and we could have used all those warmers.

[@kittycato2023]

Just a tip...use the rubbermade roughneck contan÷s. More exoensive but wont break or crack.

[@SimplyCherie]

Ok. I sometimes regret not getting those. But I might slowly but surely trade out the bins.

[@donnajaemoon]

Mine is a Hurricane Supplies Box. One of my lanterns is a feature on a fan.

[@SimplyCherie]

Wow. I’ve never seen a lantern and a fan combined. Nice.

[@hollywinters5792]

Your camping lanters have a compartment on top that unscrews. I keep extra batteries in the top.

[@SimplyCherie]

Mind blown! I have never heard that. I am so excited!

[@susangulseth2368]

This is great! Thanks. Very informative.

[@SimplyCherie]

Glad it was helpful!