The first friction match (or wooden kitchen match) was invented in merry old England on this day in 1827. You'll need more than that old match to cope with today's extended power outages. Due to a big storm or a rolling blackout, you could find yourself in the dark. If you do, you'll be glad you took our advice and put together a power-outage survival kit. First, flashlights and extra batteries are a must. While candles give light for long periods, so do battery-powered lanterns -- and they're safer. Battery-powered touch lights are good too. Purchase a quality all-in-one multi-tool (with pliers, screwdriver, scissors, etc.) and keep it in a large weather-resistant container with a utility knife, duct tape and a long-snout butane lighter (for pilot lights). Make a trip to your local hardware store today. You'll find everything you'll need from first-aid kits to fire extinguishers and portable generators, even those old wooden kitchen matches. And that's the On The House tip for today.