{
  "id": 19621965,
  "title": "Forget batteries: Why an emergency radio was the first prep item I bought",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/forget-batteries-why-an-emergency-radio-was-the-first-prep-item-i",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-12T08:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/home/forget-batteries-why-an-emergency-radio-was-the-first-prep-item-i-bought"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In today's uncertain world, being prepared for emergencies is no longer seen as paranoia. Both the U.K. and U.S. governments actively encourage citizens to stock up on emergency supplies to last for three days. The U.K. government launched its \"Be Ready\" campaign in late October to urge households to take small steps toward emergency preparedness. Despite the unsettling nature of the campaign, the public has responded calmly and rationally, without panicking. While grocery stores did see an increase in sales of essential items like hand sanitizer, bottled water, and canned goods, the response has been considered and not panicked. A wind-up radio was one of the first items the author purchased following the U.K. campaign advice, as it was the most reliable lifeline for emergency broadcasts when the grid fails. The author chose a multi-purpose crank radio, which offers extra benefits like a solar panel, a hand crank for charging, and various light and alarm options. The radio measures 2.91 (h) x 6.18 (w) x 2.09 (d) inches and comes in four bright colorways.",
  "summary": "I’m not a prepper, but I have added one item to my emergency kit: Why this $36 radio is a good start.",
  "key_points": [
    "U.K. and U.S. governments encourage emergency preparedness",
    "Wind-up radio chosen as reliable emergency lifeline",
    "Multi-purpose radio includes solar panel and hand crank"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}