Life Hacks

10 Everyday Kitchen Items That Double as Emergency Fixes

Published

1 month ago

July 28, 2025

Chiraag

load shedding survival kit, cooking in blackout, emergency use kitchen items, baking soda remedies, Joburg preparedness guide, home readiness 2025, Joburg ETC

If there is one thing cooking in Joburg has taught us, it’s that our kitchens are treasure troves of hidden survival tools. Beyond meal prep, everyday items can become lifesavers during load shedding, storms, or unexpected emergencies. Here’s how to use ten common kitchen staples like a pro, with local insights and practical tricks.

Turning Kitchen Tools into Survival Gear

When the power fails or disaster strikes, these household items can step up in surprising ways. We spoke to Joburg residents who’ve used everything from duct tape to baking soda in clever fixes.

1. Aluminium Foil

More than just for braai leftovers, foil reflects body heat, signals for help, and can even patch a leaky pipe. During load shedding, craft a solar cooker by lining cardboard with foil.

2. Duct Tape

A must-have for quick repairs. Patch torn tents, secure loose wires, or even fashion a makeshift handle. Just avoid using it directly on the skin for long periods.

3. Tea Towel

Doubles as a sling for sprains, a strainer for water, or a cold compress when soaked and frozen. Cotton ones are reusable and easy to clean.

4. Wooden Spoon

Besides stirring pots, it can pry open stuck lids, brace a wobbly table, or even help clear debris after a storm.

5. Kitchen Knife

A sharp blade cuts rope, opens packaging, or trims bandages. Always handle with care and store safely.

6. Pot or Pan

Cast iron pots retain heat for hours, making them perfect for cooking during blackouts. Use them to boil water or as makeshift heaters (with caution).

7. Plastic Wrap or Bags

Cover wounds to keep them clean, or use garbage bags as rain ponchos, ground covers, or emergency shelter liners.

8. Candles and Matches

Essential during power cuts. Wax can seal small leaks, and matches help start fires for warmth or cooking.

9. Baking Soda and Salt

Baking soda soothes burns and neutralises odours. Salt can extinguish small grease fires or clean surfaces.

10. Rubber Bands and Scissors

Secure bandages, bundle items, or even fix a loose screw. Scissors cut cloth for dressings or open tough packaging.

Why This Matters in Joburg

With load shedding, storms, and unexpected disruptions, being resourceful is key. South African disaster prep guidelines recommend keeping basic supplies, but your kitchen already has hidden potential.

Quick Tips for Your Kitchen Emergency Kit

Store backup items like matches, tape, and foil in an easy-to-reach box.
Check supplies every six months.
Add manual tools (hand crank can opener, mortar and pestle) for power-free prep.

Your kitchen isn’t just for cooking. It’s a survival hub waiting to be unlocked. Keep these hacks in mind, share them with your household, and stay ready for anything.