What did you do when the lights went out?

Thanks to the recent encounter of a Blanding hay wagon with an electrical line, we were all reminded a few weeks ago, that we are perhaps too dependent upon electricity.  Its need pervades every corner of our homes and lives, and we are blessed to have it.  Sometimes, however it’s good to revert back to earlier, simpler times.  Sixty years ago, people still had a good life without 24/7 access to TV, Internet, appliances, radio, movies, games and the luxuries we now consider necessities.  Where were you when the lights went out?  Did you learn anything from that experience?

Lessons I Learned: 

1.      Know where your candles, lamps, flashlights, batteries, and solar lights are before it gets dark.  I remembered to use my solar lights this time, and found them easily! And thus didn’t have to worry about all the other light sources.  It’s a good idea to have extra solar batteries on hand as well.

2.      You don’t have to totally cook food.  Turn off the heat, with the lid on, and let it cook itself the last 15-30 minutes.  This is when a Dutch oven is especially useful, as they retain heat super well.  This decreases the amount of wood, or electricity needed.  You just need to plan ahead.  Our meal was only partly done when the electricity went off, and 40 minutes later when we returned it was still warm and good to eat.

3.      Don’t open your fridge and freezer if they stop working.  Things will stay cold for several days if left unopened.  If a freezer breaks, put everything into your washing machine, with a heavy blanket thrown over it.  That way even though items may thaw, there isn’t a mess and hopefully, the fridge can be replaced or fixed before you lose your food. 

4.      If you fear food loss because of long term electrical loss…you can bottle meat, and other frozen items using your camp stove (if you have propane.)  Plan ”B”:  dry fruits, vegetables, make jerky out of meat using solar heat.  Move your drying racks into a car, or any place with lots of windows.  This ups the temperature significantly and dries things fast.  Who knows, you may even be able to cook a frozen pizza in there, it’s soooo hot!

5.      What to do when you’re bored and in the dark:  Talk to your family; play “in the dark” games (plunk out a tune on the piano and see if anyone recognizes it. Sardines, and No Bears out tonight should be exciting!  Have a read around –pass the flashlight or solar light and take turns reading a story together; pretend you’re pioneers sitting around a campfire.  And of course, go to bed early, and rise early that your minds might be refreshed, and that you will enjoy and appreciate the sunrise as well as your thankfulness for light.  Hmmm, I wonder if they make solar chargers for Kindles?