For those without standby power........

At first, a power outage might seem like a pioneer-style adventure.

But, before long, it becomes clear that along with not having electricity, pioneers also made due without televisions, air conditioners, computers and home-security systems.

Modern miracles like flashlights, batteries and radios make time spent without power more manageable these days, but they're only helpful if they're already on hand.

Putting Together an Emergency Storm Bucket
According to the National Weather Service, each year Americans cope with an average of 10,000
thunderstorms, 2,500 floods, 1,000 tornadoes and six hurricanes.

This extreme weather can bring unexpected effects such as power outages or home damages, and every homeowner should be prepared.

The following items will all fit and can be stored conveniently within a five gallon plastic bucket. The bucket
itself is a functional item that can be used during or after a storm to carry items, scoop water, or even
manually flush a toilet. Choose a bright orange or red bucket and label it “Emergency Storm Bucket” to help
identify these items when you need them.

• New or disposable flashlight with fresh batteries
• New sealed battery packs of different size batteries (AA, D, etc.)
• Compact radio with weather band and hand crank to get important news and weather updates
• Disposable camera to document home damage from the storm
• Freezer bags to collect and store important documents and keep them dry
• Work gloves to move any debris
• Safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust
• Bug spray to keep pests at bay
• Landline telephone as cordless and cellular telephones will not work without power
• Boat flare to signal for help; these are available at most marine stores
• Heavy-duty Sharpie marker to leave large notes on any available surface
• Duct tape
• First aid kit
• Waterproof matches
• Candle(s)

Without standby power One's home can seem like a strange place when there's no power running through it. Garage-door openers and cordless phones will be out of commission, refrigerator and freezer doors will need to stay closed, and cooling units will be lifeless.

A commercial-grade KOHLER residential generator protects your family, home and lifestyle during extended power outages.