Kat, whatever caused the Blackouts in Europe, we gotta be thankful it happened during mild weather conditions of Spring and not in the DEAD OF WINTER. Juan O'Savin makes important note of that, and just as you say, it's even more reason to PREPARE for short-term emergencies.

No one should be scared, NO FEAR, but EVERYONE should try to be prepared with some level of self-sufficiency. I'll share my list in next response.

During an emergency, wouldn't it be nice to be the Patriot who tells the Military knocking on your front door who are asking if you need anything, to be able to say, "No thank you, I am prepared and comfortable presently, because I prepared - so please dedicate your resources to help others who are more in need."

That's the first definition of "freedom" when you don't have to depend on the government for anything.

Just sayin'.