Hints from Heloise: Ideas on how to keep the lights on when the power goes out

PRODUCING LIGHT DURING OUTAGES

Dear Heloise: A cautionary thought to a neighbor across the river in Omaha, Nebraska, who had a suggestion on solar lights for emergency use. Be sure not to depend on bringing them in during a thunderstorm. Stay in the house when thunderstorms are in the area.

Use the alternative options that you should already have on hand in case the power goes out. Save the solar lights for long-term outages after any storms are out of the area. -- Steve T., in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Steve, there are also light bulbs that have batteries in it, and every time you turn on the lamp that contains one of these lights, you can charge up the battery. When a storm (or any other mishap) comes along, you can turn on the lamp that contains this bulb because it will be running on th