Canned heat (generally referred to as “Sterno”), and the stoves to use it, can be purchased in large sporting goods stores, discount stores, or online. A folding Sterno stove costs between $8 and $14, is very compact, and will hold a 2-quart saucepan or a small to medium skillet.
Sterno stoves are used primarily to heat food and not cook food. They are great for most foods you would store in an Emergency Food Supply. Theses stoves work well for heating a can of chili or soup or stew. They can be used to boil water for instant oatmeal, hot cocoa, or freeze-dried meals.
To use the stove, the lid on the can of fuel is removed and the fuel is lit with a match or lighter. The amount of heat, or the size of the flame, can be lowered by laying the lid of the can over part of the fuel can opening. The flame is extinguished by carefully pushing the lid into place and closing the can.
If you can’t find a folding stove, you can make your own stove with an empty 29-ounce can and a bottle opener. Look for the instructions on THIS page.
A can of Sterno brand cooking fuel will last 45 minutes to 2-1/4 hours depending on the size of the can of fuel and the size of the flame used.
Consider adding a canned heat stove to your Emergency Food Supply or to your 72-hour kit, or both.
