Nice run down SwedishChef.

Our experience was somewhat similar, but we more or less had sufficient batteries, radios, gas fireplaces, gas stove and phone (old style hardwire) along with gas water heater, so only the lack of lights and central fan forced heat presented any challenges.

I used my manual coffee grinder to good effect to prevent my most harrowing of situations....lack of caffeine <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

One thing that I was just amazed at was the constant references on the radio about checking their websites for additional information...things like shelter locations should not be placed on a web site....that was simply stupid.

My wife and I volunteered to man the local shelter, but only one family showed up....how was anyone to hear about it?, so we just chatted a while then went back to our 48 degree house.

I do think things like this minor event can have positive outcomes if folks look carefully at their prep and make some changes.