Losing power when you least expect it and when you’re unprepared can have a lasting effect. Two small towns in Massachusetts celebrated the anniversary of an ice storm that left them without power for an extended period. The Worcester Telegram and Gazette reports:
Residents of Lunenburg and Fitchburg are still talking about what happened to them after losing power for up to two weeks; area artists have created paintings and other objets d’art at the Rollstone Studios; the Fitchburg Senior Center held an Icebreaker Party; and yesterday, protesters picketed Unitil headquarters; and the Lunenburg Firefighters Association held a community event at the fire station, giving away free emergency starter kits.
“I was friendly with my neighbors before, but now we are friends,” Mr. [Jay] Rinaldi added.
He was without power for 11 days and had to cancel classes he taught in Boston. And he not only used his fireplace to keep his house warm, but also cooked pizza over that fire.
If you’re renting an apartment, you may not have the luxury of a woodstove or fireplace in your apartment. What will you do for heat and food? Homeowners also have to think through how they will get enough food, water and heat to stay alive. Do you have the supplies you need for a 2 week power failure?
Source:
http://www.telegram.com/article/20091213/NEWS/912130420/0/NEWS03