Thursday 11/12/14
The number of interruptions to our power supply has drastically reduced in recent times. As a result, many people are caught off guard when the lights go out.
Everyone knows they shouldn't open the fridge or freezer during blackout (because a fridge or freezer's insulation is capable of maintaining their internal temperature for several hours if you don't open the door). But what about your creature comforts? Yes, you actually can be comfortable during a power outage, with a minimum of effort.
In my house we have six high-powered LED torches placed around the building, ensuring that if the lights go out, a light source is always close at hand. I also keep a supply of candles, matches and candleholders in the pantry. The candles present a very low fire risk because I only use them in the candleholders (yes, I even have one of those old fashioned brass candleholders), and I never leave the candle unattended. You might think candles are old fashioned, but it is a lot easier to read a book by candlelight than trying to hold a torch while you read. I keep spare batteries for the torches in the cupboard, next to the candles.
From a security perspective, it is a good idea to have several torches located throughout your house. If you hear a strange noise outside at night, you don't want to waste time searching for a torch that may or may not work when you find it.
My basic (and I do mean basic) cooking needs are taken care of by a single burner butane gas stove. It is big enough to heat a fry pan or boil a pot of water, but small enough to store in the cupboard. Again, the open flames do not present a problem because I only use the stove in the kitchen on a non-flammable surface; and I don't leave the stove unattended. I also have a hexamine stove as a backup, with a supply of fuel tablets.
I always have a battery powered radio in the house. Without power, TV and access to the internet aren't an option; but it would take a catastrophic event to knock out all of the radio stations broadcasting into my area.
These are just a few simple things I do to make my life a little more comfortable during a minor inconvenience.