Thanks everyoe for your concerns and comments

I do have an electric heater, and it will be my first go-to source of heat. But if power is lost , I may be in a situation that I want to survive, regardless of what comes next.

There will be no problem with "storing" things per se , because lots of "unacceptable" things are already stored around as ( field items) to be used when we go out in the field. Plus we have enough different departments ( like maintenece and paint shop, labs ..etc. ) that denatured alcohol ..etc. are not an issue.

The real question that is bugging me is : if sterno contains alcohol as a fuel, why does it not burn like alcohol stoves ? It it because of the gel that slows the burning ?

If Sterno is out , I am leaning towards a sterno can with sand. It can store forever and when alcohol is poured in , it makes a good stove. But I need a stand. The super cat does not need a stand. hmmmmm