Tools & Repair

A storm tears off a roof section, water seeps through a broken window, a door can no longer close — emergency situations frequently come with property damage. Having the right tools on hand lets you fix acute damage, secure hazards, and keep your home habitable.

The goal is not a professional workshop setup, but a set of high-quality basic tools that covers the most common emergency repairs. Quality matters more than quantity here — cheap tools break at the critical moment.

Basic Tools

• HammerRecommended

  A hammer is the most universal tool for emergency repairs. It drives nails, breaks obstacles, drives wedges, and can serve as a tool substitute when needed. For emergency use, a locksmith's hammer with 500g head weight and fibreglass handle is ideal — it is more impact-resistant than wood and less prone to damage. Quality hammers from Gedore, Wera, or Knipex last for decades without wear.

• Screwdriver SetRecommended

  A screwdriver set with cross-head and flat-head tips in various sizes is essential for almost every repair job. Door locks, cover plates, furniture, and technical devices all use screws. Choose a set with magnetised tips for easier work. Bit sets with a ratchet and extensions increase reach in hard-to-access locations. Store the set in a compact case so nothing gets lost.

• PliersRecommended

  A robust combination plier grips, cuts, bends, and fastens — an indispensable all-rounder in the toolbox. In an emergency you may need to cut wires, clamp pipes, or loosen screws without a screwdriver. Quality pliers (e.g., Knipex combination plier) made from chrome-vanadium steel stay sharp and easy to grip for years. Keep the joint moving smoothly with an occasional drop of oil.

• SawRecommended

  A small hand saw allows you to cut wooden beams, branches, and plastic pipes without electricity. After storm damage, a fallen branch might block your entrance or a damaged roof beam may need to be secured. A panel saw (25 cm blade length) covers most requirements. For larger jobs, bow saws are more practical. Protect the saw blade with a blade guard when not in use.

Fastening & Sealing

• Heavy-Duty Adhesive TapeEssential

  Strong adhesive tape (duct tape / fabric tape) is the most versatile aid for emergency repairs. It seals leaks, secures tarps, repairs equipment, and in a pinch improvises bandaging material. Choose high-quality fabric tape (e.g., tesa Powerbond or 3M) with adequate adhesion for moisture and outdoor use. One roll 50mm × 50m is sufficient for most emergency scenarios. Store the tape in a cool location — heat can affect the adhesive.

• Cable TiesRecommended

  Cable ties in various lengths and strengths provide a quick, provisional solution for many fastening tasks — from securing loose parts to improvising a splint for injuries. Buy an assortment of short (10 cm), medium (20 cm), and long (40 cm) cable ties. Stainless steel cable ties are weatherproof and stronger than plastic. Small cable ties fit in any toolbox and cost little — a pack of 100 is a worthwhile investment.

Locks & Security

• Spare LocksOptional

  Spare locks are important when door locks become damaged or unusable in an emergency. A kicked-in door, a break-in attempt, or storm damage can damage the lock and leave your home unsecured. A simple padlock with a shackle and two keys enables a provisional solution. Also keep dowels, screws, and short wooden boards to provisionally secure damaged frames. Note the location of spare keys in a safe place.

• CrowbarOptional

  A crowbar allows you to open jammed doors, move heavy objects, and pry structures open. In the case of flood damage or a storm, doors and windows can jam or become blocked. A compact crowbar (30-40 cm, cast steel) is handy enough for an emergency kit. Prying is a technique that saves strength — knowing where to apply leverage is key to minimising further damage.

Protective Equipment

• Heavy-Duty GlovesRecommended

  Robust gloves protect when clearing debris, handling glass and sharp materials, and during welding work. In an emergency, hand injuries are particularly problematic because they limit your ability to act. Choose cut-resistant work gloves made from cowhide split leather or with Kevlar inserts for maximum protection. The gloves should fit well without excessively restricting fine motor skills.

• Safety GogglesRecommended

  Safety goggles prevent eye injuries from chips, dust, and splinters during repair work. The eye is especially sensitive and hard to protect without goggles. Use safety goggles to EN 166 standard that are enclosed enough to also deflect side splashes. Anti-fog lenses are practical in a work environment. Storing in a hard case prevents scratches on the lenses.

• Work GlovesRecommended

  Work gloves made from durable material are specifically suited for construction and repair work. Unlike cut-resistant gloves, work gloves offer more dexterity while providing palm padding. They are important for all tasks that require a firm grip on tools. Choose a size that fits snugly and replace them when seams tear or the material wears through.

• Utility KnifeRecommended

  A utility knife (box cutter) with snap-off blades is essential for cutting sealing material, film, cardboard, and cables. The snap-off blade stays sharp without resharpening. Choose a model with a metal housing and secure blade lock. Always keep spare blades — they are inexpensive and important when a blade becomes dull. A blade cap protects against accidental cuts during transport.