What Kinds of Batteries Should I Keep in My Emergency Kit?
If you want to be prepared for most disasters, your emergency kit should be able to sustain your family for about 72 hours. That means you should stockpile three days' worth of potable water and nonperishable foods for every member of your household. You should also stock up on non-rechargeable lithium batteries, which retain almost all their power significantly longer than their rechargeable counterparts. In case of a power outage, the following types will likely come in handy.
3 Battery Types to Stock for an Emergency Kit
1. AA
AA batteries are used to power a host of small devices, from wireless keyboards to small toys. The chances are good that most of the battery-powered devices throughout your home rely on AA batteries. While you might not need to use the remote control or a computer mouse during a power outage, you can be sure that having a stash of AA batteries will be helpful when your electric toothbrush or headlamp dies.
2. D
Most heavy-duty flashlights call for D batteries. Since you don't want to lose your primary light source during a power outage, it's wise to keep at least 12 D batteries in your emergency kit. Thankfully, they're fairly affordable, and they can hold their charge for 10 years or more, so it's easy to justify buying them in bulk.
3. 9-Volt
When safety devices like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire alarms lose their power source, they rely on a backup battery. This battery is almost always 9-volt. To protect your family regardless of whether your home has power—and prevent that incessant beeping that accompanies a dying smoke detector—include at least one 9-volt battery for every safety device in your home in your emergency kit.
Stock up on batteries for your emergency kit by visiting Victory Battery in Covington, KY. This family-owned and -operated shop has supplied portable power since 1957. Carrying products from only the most reliable manufacturers, they've got what you need to power your vehicles, watches, portable appliances, wheelchairs, small electronics, and toys. Visit them online for a complete list of services, or call (859) 581-0343 to speak with an associate.