Coghlan’s flint striker is a must-have for anyone reorganizing and restocking their family’s emergency kit. This low-tech gadget allows you to light a fire without matches (Read the review at Gear Diary for a great demonstration of how to use it). As long as your tinder is dry, you can use the rod and striker to start a fire even in wet conditions, and it lasts for years.

$4.98 at Pine Creek Outdoors (via Amazon).

(Wondering what else your emergency kit should have? Here’s a handy checklist for you to print and take to the store.)