A good tool kit should be part of your emergency supplies heading into winter

Prepare for winter emergencies by buying batteries on sale, flashlights and extra blankets.

As fall begins to fade away, it's time to start thinking about a picking up a tool kit, maybe some batteries on sale and other emergency supplies that every house should have in case that winter blizzard comes early.

The best way to prepare for such emergencies is to plan ahead. To do that, make a checklist of everything you could need in emergencies, then start trying to find those items on sale.

Finding batteries on sale always comes in handy when preparing trying times, which is why they should be included among all emergency supplies. Stock up on all different sizes. For example, the Energizer EN95 Industrial “D” size batteries are perfect for items like flashlights and larger radios. Double A batteries and 9-volt batteries are useful for radios and entertainment devices.

Those batteries can be put to good use in flashlights, which are useful when those winter storms blow in and knock out the power. ReStockIt.com, an online retailer, has plenty of flashlights on sale, including the Energizer Eveready 3251 NBP handheld flashlight, which now is only $1.69. At that price, they can be part of the emergency supplies in every room of the house.

Those winter storms can do more than knock out the lights, they can cause damage to houses and cars. That's why it's always good to have a tool kit among the emergency supplies. A basic tool kit should include a hammer, wrenches, ratchets, screwdrivers and pliers.

Don't forget to prepare for the possibility that the heat could, at some point, go out. That means that those who have access to fireplaces should stock up on firewood for warmth and extra blankets for snuggling.

It might also be a good idea to check into pricing on a gasoline-powered generator, which can supply electricity for a home should the power go out. Don't forget to safely store an extra can of gasoline, too.

Finally, remember food and water. Bottles of water are useful for drinking, and for washing. Choose food that has a long shelf life and can be prepared easily. And for those with infants, don't forget extra baby food and formula.

Following these guidelines will give any family a good start assembling emergency supplies for winter. Don't forget t check now to find batteries on sale, flash lights and a tool kit. Other supplies can be found on the next trip to the supermarket.