When the power goes out
A power cut seems like something short-lived: an hour without light and then life carries on. Yet that’s not always the case. Just think of the major black-out in 2003 in North America, where millions of people were without electricity for days.
When it gets dark, the heating fails and the fridge starts to warm up, you realise how dependent we are on sockets and batteries. That’s precisely why it can be handy to have some surprising aids at home. Not the classic torch or candle, but items you might not immediately expect, but which make the difference when the lights go out.
1. Solar power bank with built-in light
Energy and light in one
A solar rechargeable power bank ensures that you can continue to use your phone or small devices, even during a power cut. Often there’s a small LED light built in, so you immediately have emergency lighting as well. I think that’s a clever combination: you save space and get two functions in one.
🔧 Practical tip
Always place your solar power bank in a sunny spot, even when there’s no outage. That way it’s fully charged the moment you really need it.
2. Camping cooker on gas
Warm food without mains electricity
When electricity goes out, you realise how difficult cooking becomes. A small gas stove, often used for camping, offers a simple solution. There are compact models that run on butane gas canisters.
- Note: Never use a gas stove in an enclosed space without ventilation. Carbon monoxide is life-threatening and completely odourless.
3. Thermal flask with heat retention
Retaining warmth as a luxury
A sturdy thermos keeps boiled water or soup warm for hours. It sounds banal, but in a situation without electricity, a warm drink is an enormous boost. I’d always want to have one at home myself, just for that little bit of comfort.
4. Wind-up radio
Information remains crucial
Without power, the internet often goes down too, and then a radio is suddenly worth its weight in gold again. With a wind-up or solar-powered energy radio you stay informed of official announcements. Some models also have a USB output to charge a phone briefly. Discover 5 good emergency radios here.
📻 Keep an eye on the radio
During major outages, governments often communicate via emergency broadcasters. A simple radio can then be more reliable than your smartphone.
5. Pocket-sized water filter
Clean drinking water as a foundation
An unexpected but very useful addition. Should the power be out for longer, the water supply can also get into difficulties. A portable water filter removes bacteria and dirt from river or ditch water. You don’t use it daily, but when it’s needed, it can save your health.
💦 Discover more about water and water purification?
6. LED lantern on batteries
Lighting that fills spaces
A torch is handy, but a lantern lights up an entire room. That makes eating together, reading or simply sitting quietly a lot more practical. There are simple versions on AA batteries, but also models that you can charge via solar panels.
7. Collapsible water containers
Build up supplies in an instant
When water pressure drops – because that can happen during a power cut, you want to have a reserve quickly. Collapsible jerrycans or bags take up no space, but give you the ability to store litres of water.
Tip: Fill the containers as soon as you hear there’s a chance of prolonged outage. That way you don’t have to improvise when the water really stops.
8. Safety whistle
Small, but not to be underestimated
A simple whistle may seem like a detail, but can save lives. In a dark environment or during panic, it’s a way to make contact with housemates or neighbours. Cheap, lightweight and yet often forgotten.
Conclusion
A power cut needn’t become a disaster, as long as you’re cleverly prepared for it. Not every aid needs to be expensive or large: often it’s precisely the small and unexpected products that make the difference. Whether it’s a thermos, a radio or a whistle, each of these items increases your comfort and safety. And above all, it gives peace of mind to know that you’re not completely dependent on the grid.