The hazards presented by disruptions to the reliability of the electrical power grid and our capacity to use natural gas to heat buildings, along with wild spikes in energy prices, go well beyond the threats of inconvenience and financial losses. These sorts of energy system failures also contribute to health problems. Freezing in the dark is not just the punch line from a 1970s bumper sticker. High energy prices and service disruptions can kill people — even in rich countries like Canada.