The November after we moved into this home (1999), we had a major unseasonal snow storm. I was alone (DH worked in the US) did not know any of the neighbours (had only been here a month) and could not realisticaly leave the house (cats). Thank goodness we had a fireplace. Dug out the camping supplies and camped in the living room--hot dogs and canned soup were my friends. 4 cats are really good insulation. But that experience taught us. Now the house is wired for a generator, we have a propane stove and our neighbours are our best friends. Believe me, I know what you have experienced. ((hugs))