Cooking without power
Most emergency food can be eaten cold. But a hot drink or a warm meal makes a long day much easier. A camp stove lets you do that, as long as you use it safely.
The most important rule
Only use camp stoves, grills and generators outdoors, well away from doors, windows and vents. Never use them inside your home, in a garage (even with the door open), or in a tent you are sleeping in.
They give off carbon monoxide (CO). It is a poisonous gas 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 CO poisoning can feel like the flu: headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, chest pain and confusion. People who are asleep can be overcome before they notice anything. Several people or pets feeling unwell at the same time is a warning sign.
If you think someone has carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Get everyone into fresh air right away.
- Call 911.
- For advice, you can also call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
A carbon monoxide detector is your best protection. Install one on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area, and test it regularly. A battery detector, or one with battery backup, keeps working in an outage.
Choosing a stove
A portable butane camp stove is affordable, stable and easy to use. Check which fuel canisters it takes, and buy a few spares. Keep the stove and fuel together so they are easy to find.
Using it safely
- Set it up outdoors on a firm, level surface, away from anything that could catch fire.
- Never leave it unattended while it is lit, and keep kids and pets well away.
- Let it cool completely before you change the canister.
- Store fuel canisters in a cool place, away from heat and out of living areas.
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 fails.
Candles and fire safety
Flashlights and battery lanterns are much safer than candles. If you do use candles, put them in sturdy holders on a stable surface, keep them away from curtains and anything that can 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.