Cooking without power
Most emergency food can be eaten cold. But a hot drink or a warm meal makes a long, cold day much easier. A camping stove lets you do that, as long as you use it safely.
The most important rule
Only use camping stoves, barbecues and patio heaters outdoors, or somewhere very well ventilated. Never use them inside your home, in a garage, or in a tent you are sleeping in.
They give off carbon monoxide. It is a poisonous gas that you can't see, smell or taste, and it can build up quickly in an enclosed space.
Carbon monoxide: what to know
Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can feel like flu or food poisoning: headache, dizziness, feeling sick, tiredness and confusion. Several people or pets in the same place feeling unwell at once is a warning sign.
If you think someone has carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Get everyone into fresh air straight away.
- Turn off the appliance if it is safe to do so.
- Call 999 if anyone is seriously unwell. Otherwise get medical advice from NHS 111.
- If you suspect a gas leak, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
A carbon monoxide alarm is your best protection. Fit one in every room with a fuel-burning appliance, such as a gas boiler, fire or wood burner, and test it regularly. A battery alarm keeps working in a power cut.
Choosing a stove
A single-burner portable gas stove is cheap, stable and easy to use. Check which gas canisters it takes, and buy a few spares. Keep the stove and gas together so they are easy to find.
Using it safely
- Set it up outdoors on a firm, flat surface, away from anything that could catch fire.
- Never leave it unattended while it is lit, and keep children and pets well away.
- Let it cool down fully before you change the canister.
- Store gas canisters somewhere cool, upright and away from heat. Never store them in the room you sleep in.
Lighting it
Keep matches or a lighter in a waterproof container with the stove. Many stoves have push-button ignition, but a backup is useful if it stops working.
Candles and fire safety
Torches and battery lanterns are much safer than candles. If you do use candles, put them in a proper holder on a stable surface, keep them away from curtains and anything that could burn, and never leave them lit when you leave the room or go to sleep.
Make sure your smoke alarms work. Test them every month.