When the power goes out, you need backup lighting and energy sources. Many of these will be obvious but hopefully we provide some contingency options you have not thought of before.
》Backup Lighting
Rechargeable Flashlights: These are great because you can charge them with a USB, solar panel, or even a hand crank. Go for ones with long battery life and different brightness settings.
Emergency Light Bulbs: These look like regular LED bulbs but have a built-in battery. When the power goes out, they automatically turn on and can last for several hours.
Battery-Powered Lanterns: Perfect for lighting up a whole room. Some run on regular batteries, while others are rechargeable. Look for adjustable brightness features.
Kerosene Lamps: Provides light using kerosene fuel.
Propane Lanterns: Bright lighting fueled by propane canisters.
Oil Lamps: Burns oil for sustained indoor lighting.
Battery-Operated Lanterns: Lightweight, portable, battery-powered light sources.
Candle Lanterns (candles themselves should be an obvious): Enclosed candles for portable, safe lighting.
Glow Sticks: Temporary chemical light without heat or flame.
Wind-Up Flashlights: No batteries, powered by winding mechanisms.
Alcohol Stoves: Small stoves powered by liquid alcohol fuels.
Solar Lights: Single purpose light (usually designed to be mounted outside or staked into the ground as a garden/sidewalk light).
》Backup Energy
Prtable Battery Banks: A must for charging phones and small devices. High-capacity ones (10,000mAh or more) are best, and some even have solar charging built-in.
Mini Solar Panels: These are lightweight and can charge small devices or refill battery banks. They’re great for outdoor use or longer power outages.
Power Stations: For bigger needs like running a laptop or small appliances, portable power stations are a good investment. Get one that works with solar panels for extra flexibility.
Hand-Crank Generators: These are small but mighty when you need a quick charge for essentials.
Gas-Powered Generators: Produces electricity using gasoline engines.
Wood Gasification Stoves: Converts wood into energy and heat.
Biogas Systems: Generates power from organic waste decomposition.
》Tips
Always keep your batteries and power banks charged.
Test your backup gear every now and then to make sure it's working.
Use energy-efficient LED lights (when powered by a battery station/ bank) to stretch battery life. Solar-powered devices are a lifesaver during extended outages.
Check and restock fuels (kerosene, gas, etc) to make sure they are safely stored, given stabilizer to increase life (if relevant), and not evaporated.