How to choose an emergency radio

What to look for

Tick each point the product you are considering meets.

• Choose a radio that runs on batteries or a hand crank, not mains power alone.^[1]
• Pick a model that can tune FM and, where available, digital radio, so you can try several stations.^[3]
• Look for both a battery compartment and a mains adapter, so it works plugged in and during outages.^[7]
• Consider a model with solar power or a USB port; many emergency radios offer these.^[5]
• An external antenna socket can improve reception in weak signal areas.^[6]
• Check the model is not under a safety recall, for example on the maker's website.^[6]

Avoid

• Do not rely on your phone alone: local masts and mobile networks may stop working in a power cut.^[3]
• Do not pay extra for NOAA weather band or SAME alerts in the GCC: NOAA transmitters only cover the US and its territories.^[8]

After you buy

• Keep spare batteries for the radio in your kit.^[2]
• Store batteries outside the radio, in original packaging, to prevent corrosion.^[9]
• Write the frequencies of your local and national news stations on paper and keep them with the radio.^[2]
• Review your kit every six months to confirm the radio still works.^[10]