Gadgets can help create calm after the storm

As hurricane season looms over the warm Gulf waters and Southwest Floridians start checking their emergency supplies, thoughts of battery-operated coffee makers, fans, TVs and radios begin to surface.

A few days or even hours without power in the heat of storm season can bring on a bad case of the no-electricity blues.

But it doesn't have to be that way.

Solar- and battery-powered gadgets and appliances can bring at least a bit of comfort and ease back after the storm, long before the household current comes back.

Road Pro makes several styles of battery-operated coffee pots, plus a number of other kitchen appliances — crockpots, microwave ovens, pizza toasters, popcorn poppers and blenders, for example — that will make you say, "What hurricane?" Check out the online catalog at www.das-road.com.

Justin Milson, the camping manager for Bass Pro Shops in Gulf Coast Town Center, says the store carries a variety of items to make living without electricity easier and more comfortable. Generators, battery-operated fans, crank-operated radios and flashlights that just need a quick shake to function are always in stock, as well as Coleman coolers that plug into your car's cigarette lighter. Big-box stores and even drugstores also carry a variety of such things. While you're there, don't forget to stock up on batteries.

— E.I. Rottersman, Florida Weekly

Cool stuff that doesn't need electricity

>> A number of companies sell a wide variety of battery-operated tools.

>> The Sunnan desk lamp from IKEA has solar cells that you leave in direct sunlight over the course of the day. A nine- to 12-hour recharging period will give about four hours of light from its LED bulbs.

>> Keep drinks cool and sandwiches fresh in a cooler that runs on a 12V battery and sips just 24 watts on average. The Coolmatic by Waeco has a control panel where you can set the exact cooling temperature you desire. It'll keep your food and drinks icy cold for two days straight on a single 80aH battery.

>> For those who would prefer to check things out locally rather than buy online, Bass Pro Shops at Gulf Coast Town Center carries a line of appliances and camping gear including battery-operated fans, crank-operated radios and flashlights that need a quick shake to operate.

Source: www.treehugger.com