What do you need to do in case of a power outage during a winter storm? We have a few tips to prepare your home and family in case the lights (and heat) aren't working.
Before the Power Goes Out (If You Have Time to Prepare)
- Charge everything: Phones, power banks, laptops. Consider turning devices off to conserve battery.
- Fill containers with water: Especially if you're on a well—no power means no pump. Pro tip: fill the bathtub with water.
- Crank the heat: Warm your home in advance so it stays warmer longer.
- Cook a meal: Prepare food that can be eaten cold if needed later.
- Park your car safely: Away from trees or power lines that could fall.
Staying Warm Without Power (In Below Freezing Temps)
- Stay in one room: Stay in a room with the fewest windows. Close doors to trap heat inside.
- Layer up: Wear thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and wool socks—even indoors.
- Use blankets and sleeping bags: Pile on layers; share body heat if you're with others. Snuggle up with the fam!
- Block drafts: Use towels, blankets, or even tape to seal windows and under doors.
- Tent trick: If it’s very cold, set up a tent indoors and sleep inside—it holds heat better. The kids will love this - now it's an adventure!
Food and Water Tips
- Eat to stay warm: Your body burns calories to produce heat. Eat small, regular meals.
- Avoid opening the fridge/freezer: Food can stay cold for 24–48 hours if unopened. Stick a cooler outside if you're concerned about food going bad!
- Melt snow safely: If you're low on water, melt and boil snow before drinking.
Light and Safety
- Use flashlights, not candles: Candles are a fire risk. But if you need to use them, never leave them unattended.
- Solar lights: Outdoor garden solar lights can be brought inside at night.
- Headlamps and lanterns: Useful for hands-free light, especially in the bathroom or kitchen.
Communication & Info
- Keep a battery-powered or crank radio: For weather updates if the internet is down.
- Text instead of calling: Conserves battery and is more reliable during network overloads.
- Check on neighbors: Especially the elderly or families with infants.
Your Car Can Help (Safely!)
- Warm up or charge devices: But never run a car in a garage—carbon monoxide kills.
- Clear exhaust pipe: If snowed in, make sure the tailpipe is clear before running the car.
At Night
- Sleep in a huddle: Share warmth with others.
- Use hot water bottles: If you can heat water safely, these work wonders in a sleeping bag or under blankets.
Remember...
- God loves you and He knows what you need. Rely on Him and repeat Scripture to yourself if you feel anxious.
- Play games or tell stories: Keep spirits up, especially with kids.
- Stay hopeful: Crews work hard in storms. Power often returns sooner than you fear and emergency service folks are working around the clock!
- Pray for those who don't have a warm place to stay and thank the Lord for helpers everywhere.