As some of you might well know I am less than 'confident' in our power grid. I did a simple search today and found my feelings were well grounded.
http://www.calgarysun.com/2011/05/19/aging-power-system-needs-upgrading
While trusting a utility is a nice thing to do trusting an aged and near failing utility is less than wise at best. I would suggest that having a reliable source of electricity other than our grid power would be a rather good idea. It's great to be able to count on electricity but it's about as reliable as a crippled postman from what I can see. I mean no disrespect to the brave unsung hero's who brave weather that most of us do not venture outside on, to repair our aged and failing electrical system. I do think it our individual duty to provide ourselves with sustainable electricity in the event of an extended (multi day) power outage. If you are still planning when it happens, it is too late.
BTR
Than= I’d rather be rich than poor.
Then= I first became hungry then I ate.
There = She is there now.
Their = They have their things.
They're = They're going to the mall.
To = They came to the house.
Too = That's too bad.
I think this is actually our biggest threat. If the grid goes down in a Canadian winter it could be life threatening without a plan.
My next home (or bug out location) will be smaller and have a wood burning stove. It might not be off the grid but if it goes down I`ll still be warm. 😐
BTR,
Nice of you to bring this topic to the attention of the prepping community. We all need to be reminded of the frailty of our comfortable life.
Not meaning to scare anyone, but if you would like to dig deeper into the potential threats poised against the "grid" have a read of CYBER WAR by Richard A. CLARKE and Robert K. KNAKE.
I agree aging infrastructure, may be the downfall of the North American empire. Life will not seem so choice without power, water, natural gas, or sewer. Not to mention bridges, overpasses and tunnels.
Maybe the simpler but harder "homestead" life-style was the best option for Canada. Self-sufficient is a wise choice for many. Pursue it if you can or when you can.
Cheers,
Mountainman.
Even the Lame Stream Media now! FOX News
The perfect solar storm? Sun eruptions to peak in 2013
Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/science/2013/01/14/perfect-solar-storm-sun-activity-to-peak-in-2013/#ixzz2KKjOSg3Z
http://www.foxnews.com/science/2013/01/14/perfect-solar-storm-sun-activity-to-peak-in-2013/
On Solar flare ups this year at peak vs the power grids. Substitute CDN for the word US and Change the Province from the State and it will be about 100% the same here!
just some food for thouht.
This makes interesting reading, from the global insurance company Lloyds:
http://www.lloyds.com/news-and-insight/news-and-features/environment/environment-2013/solar-weather-warning-issued-for-2013
Wow. I never thought I'd ever click on a link that had Fox News and Science in it... Thanks Wilderness
The article actually appears to be balanced and informative from what I've read elsewhere. It is good to note that more people may look into basic preparedness if the networks stop scaring people and just provide the 'news' 😮