Alternate Lighting

What do you do during a power outage?  My kids see it as an adventure and a chance to light some candles.  Now, what do you do if that lasts for several days?  What if it could last for weeks, or even indefinitely.  A little light on a dark night can bring peace to frightened children.  It can provide a safer pathway to the bathroom or garage in the middle of the night.  It can provide security (or perhaps increase your risks) by illuminating your surroundings.

Here are a few lighting options to consider.

• Candles, Oil Lamps, Kerosene Lamps: can you operate them safely? Fuel storage?
•  Flashlights: storing / recharging batteries, solar, LED?
•  Propane / butane / Coleman Lanterns: Fuel storage, extra mantels, carbon monoxide concerns
•  Solar lights: low energy use, costly investment but indefinitely (?) reuseable, not EMP proof.  Roof top vs. portable.
•  Glow sticks, phosphorescent paint: limited uses
•  Gas / Diesel / Propane Generator: don’t expect to run your entire house.  Select limited circuits & appliances.
• Solar LED bulbs in your home fixtures.
• Thermocouple generator
• Wind or Water Generator

Considerations

• How much fuel can you legally and safely store?  Check local regulations and homeowner’s insurance policy.
• Will the sound or light emission attract undesired attention from neighbors or roaming marauders?
• Do you have more than one option as back-up?
• Portability.
• Is there a fire or carbon monoxide hazard in using it?
• Start-up investment vs. cost of operation?
• Legal issues: reverse power surge into local utility lines, HOA rules?
• Does everyone in your family know how to (safely) operate it?