Hand-crank emergency radio
An AM/FM radio you can power by hand crank, sun or USB, so you hear official news when power fails.
- Bands
- AM / FM (some models also shortwave)
- Power
- Hand crank, solar panel, USB and built-in battery
- Extras
- Built-in torch, USB output for phone charging
- Battery
- Rechargeable, typically 2,000 mAh or more
- Shelf life
- Many years. Charge the battery every 3–6 months to keep it healthy.
Daniel X. O'Neil, CC BY 2.0 · Photo credits
When the power goes out, mobile networks and the internet may soon follow. Radio usually keeps working. Broadcasters are the main way authorities share warnings, instructions and evacuation news with everyone at once.
This radio doesn’t need mains power or spare batteries. You can charge it from a USB socket or the sun, and when both are gone, by turning the handle. It also has a built-in torch and a USB port to give your phone a little charge.
Learn now which stations carry emergency announcements in your area. In a crisis you won’t want to search the dial.
Why it’s in the kit
Information is protection. Knowing when to shelter, when it is safe to go out, where to find water, or when to take potassium iodide depends on official news. A radio that never runs flat keeps you connected when everything else is down.
Storage & maintenance
Store it in a dry place. Top up the battery every few months and try it once to check reception. If it has a removable battery, check it for swelling or leaks once a year.
How to use it
Charge it in advance
Charge the radio fully by USB at home, so it is ready when the power goes.
Switch on and find a station
Choose AM or FM and tune slowly. Write down the frequencies of your public broadcaster and local stations now.
Crank when the battery is low
Turn the handle steadily at about two turns per second. A minute of cranking gives several minutes of listening.
Use the sun
Put the solar panel in direct sunlight, for example on a windowsill, to top up the battery slowly.
Charge a phone in an emergency
Connect your phone by cable. Hand cranking gives only a small charge, enough for a short call or message.
Video guides
Video guides are being prepared.
Manuals & downloads
Manuals will be available here soon.
