Short answer: use no-cook food when safe outdoor cooking is not possible. Camping stoves and BBQs are for outdoor use only—never in a home, garage, tent or enclosed shelter, even with a door open.
Choose an option that fits the conditions
| Option | Useful for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| No cook | Meals from ready-to-eat foods | No burner; clean hands, safe water and utensils still matter. |
| Camping stove | One-pan meals and measured boiling | Use outdoors, compatible fuel and appliance instructions. |
| BBQ | Grilling and outdoor pan cooking | Operate outdoors only. Manage heat and monitor continuously. |
| Wood-fired oven | Small batches at controlled temperatures | Heat and timing vary by oven; follow manufacturer instructions. |
What if I cannot cook outside?
Choose a no-cook menu. Wind, flooding, access or other conditions can make outdoor cooking unsuitable. Do not bring a stove or BBQ indoors as an alternative.
Make fuel and water go further
- Measure the safe water a recipe calls for before heating.
- Use a lid where practical and a pan approved for the appliance.
- Prepare ingredients before lighting and cook in sequence when a single burner is used.
- Practice with your own equipment: actual times and fuel use depend on wind, cold, pan size and product.
A recipe’s added water is separate from drinking, washing and hygiene needs. Safe water remains necessary even for meals with zero added water.
Understand water planning · Read food-safety guidance · See the no-cook menu
Official sources
UK Be Ready household checklist ↗UK campaign announcement ↗US emergency supplies — Ready.gov ↗US emergency food — USDA FSIS ↗US emergency water — CDC ↗EU preparedness strategy ↗UK FSA (GOV.UK): food safety in a power cut ↗FDA: food and water safety during power outages ↗CDC: drinking-water advisories explained ↗Source links and principal guidance claims checked 2 November 2026. Consult current local advice. The Blackout Kitchen is independent and is not endorsed by these organisations.