Building an emergency repair kit

When shops are shut and help is busy, being able to fix a leak, a broken window or torn clothing yourself makes life much easier. A small kit covers most quick repairs.

The core kit

• Duct tape: patches tents, holds splints, seals bags, fixes almost anything for a while.
• Cable ties of several sizes.
• Multi-tool with pliers, screwdrivers and a blade.
• Adjustable spanner for gas and water valves.
• Strong cord or paracord, 10–20 metres.
• Sewing kit: strong thread, needles, safety pins and buttons.
• Superglue and a tube of all-purpose adhesive.
• Plastic sheeting and a heavy-duty tarpaulin.
• Work gloves and safety glasses.
• Head torch with spare batteries.
• Wire for binding and hanging.
• Assorted screws, nails and a small hammer.
• Wood or plastic sheet to board up a broken window.
• Electrical tape for wrapping cables or sealing small gaps.
• Plumbing tape and a pipe repair clamp or self-amalgamating tape.

Quick fixes

Broken window: tape over cracks in a cross pattern to stop pieces falling, then cover the hole with board, plastic sheeting or a tarp fixed with tape or nails. Wear gloves and clear up glass carefully.

Leaking pipe: turn off the water at the stopcock. Dry the pipe, then wrap self-amalgamating tape or a rubber strip tightly over the leak and fasten with a clamp or cable ties.

Leaking roof: put a bucket under the drip. Cover the outside with a tarp only when the weather is calm and it's safe; never climb on a roof in wind, rain or ice.

Torn tent or tarp: tape both sides of the tear. Sew it later if you can.

Broken strap or handle: replace with cord or cable ties.

Safety first

• Never repair gas appliances or pipes yourself. If you smell gas, leave and call from outside.
• Don't touch damaged electrical wiring. Turn off the power at the fuse box first and get it checked.
• Know your limits. A quick fix should keep you safe until proper repairs, not replace them.

Look after the kit

Keep it in one sturdy box or bag, somewhere everyone in the house knows. Check it twice a year and replace anything used or dried out.

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