Winter Weather Disasters, Could You Go Two Weeks Without Electricity?
Tonight, more than a half million residents of Arkansas and Kentucky are without electricity. Officials have warned them that they may be in this winter disaster and in the dark for at least two more weeks. Not only are they in the dark, it’s cold—still well below freezing in many areas—and there are roads blocked with down trees and power lines.
Could you survive two week under these conditions?
Of course, we used to live without electricity, but that was the norm. Pioneers prepared months in advance for winter. They chopped wood, prepped non-perishable foods; dressed in many layers, and made sure they had an adequate water supply, which most likely included melting the snow.
Things haven’t changed. Shelter, body warmth, food, and water supply are still priorities.
If you live in an area where winter disasters are likely, you should go ahead and prepare a 7 day emergency supply, at least. If you live in an area that’s prone to ice storms, blizzards, and severe cold, then prepare for more.
How to Live for Two Weeks without Electricity:
Water and heat are your top priorities.
Have some way to stay warm. A wood stove, a generator, or heaters will be necessary. Block off all rooms except for one and everyone stay together. Make sure there’s ventilation. Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a real winter hazard, so don’t seal off the room so well that you’re putting your family in danger. Check on family members often. Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, nausea, being lethargic, and non-responsiveness.
Dress in many layers and keep on your hat and glove and double, even triple socks. Your extremities are the most in danger of frostbite. Gather all the blankets and covers and keep them in the room with everyone.
Stock those gallon jugs in your garage prior to the storm, but you may want to move them indoors so they don’t freeze. (Average one gallon of water per day or each person). You might want to fill up the bathtub. Even if it freezes, it might melt during the day and can be used to flush the toilet.
Gather those candles, flashlights, and batteries. It’s best to have a hand cranked flashlight, and remember to conserve. You have no idea how long you will be in this situation.
Gather your prescription drugs and keep people who are ill on a structured medication schedule. Monitor them for signs of change since stress can make many conditions worse.
Let someone know outside your region where you are and that you’re safe. Other than that, turn off your cell phone and conserve the battery.
By preparing your home and family for a winter disaster, you have a better chance of surviving a severe storm.
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