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Emergency Energy Sources

Most people don't think about the importance of energy until they no longer have it. As if an emergency situation wasn't naturally stressful enough, these are often times when citizens find themselves struggling to cope without power. Events such as natural disasters will often knock out power to many people suddenly and it could be days before it is restored. In these situations the ones who have access to emergency energy sources will have a far easier time maintaining a tolerable existence until things return to normal. There are several sources of emergency energy that can help in these situations.

  1. Cooking Fuels

    • While your stash of non-perishable foods might get you by for a short time in an emergency, you and your family will need a hot meal eventually. Also, non-perishable foods will become increasingly difficult to obtain in some emergency situations. With limited energy options, having an emergency cooking fuel supply can be a lifesaver. Outdoor cooking fuel like propane for a grill can provide you with several days of hot food. Sterno fuel commonly used for camping is excellent for heating up small portions of food. Charcoal is cheap and effective as a cooking fuel and can provide energy for cooking and warmth outdoors.

    Solar Electricity

    • You will never be so happy that you installed solar panels as you are the day you realize the mass power outage in an emergency situation doesn't leave you without basic needs like light or hot water. Homes equipped with solar energy panels can produce electricity that doesn't require any kind of fuel other than the sun's light. This is an excellent back up power source in an emergency situation because it will never completely run out unless the sun burns out. Solar power through the use of photovoltaic cells can provide lights and refrigeration and even power water purification systems.

    Generators

    • As long as gasoline or diesel is available, a generator will get you by in a short-term emergency. These devices will pump out enough power to provide you with basic electrical necessities, but the fuel requirements can be a problem for longer-term use. According to the Consumer Reports website, the most popular portable generators will burn 12 to 18 gallons of fuel in a day and many fueling stations shut down during power outages. You have to have plenty of fuel on hand to keep the generator running. This can cause storage and safety concerns.

    Batteries

    • Flashlights, radios and other battery-powered devices are welcome sights when an emergency occurs and power is lost. When the batteries run out, however, they are useless. Batteries of various types should be in a home's emergency supply kit. Keep enough batteries on hand to power your emergency flashlights and radios for a few days at least. This is an inexpensive and easy-to-store solution for emergency energy that you'll be glad you have when the time comes.

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