For those of you that are without power this winter, especially for those of you not used to cold weather in general- Just a few tips for keeping warm and healthy without electricity.
Stay in one room; it is easier to heat one room than a house especially if you cannot use a heating system. Try to avoid using the living room- there are usually more windows and doors that will allow cold air to seep in more easily. If you have a tent, set that up in the room yoh are staying in
If you have pets that can be brought inside, bring them inside. They are cold too and can die from exposure and chill.
Layer your clothes, you will stay warmer with multiple layers on than with just one article of big clothing. Wear cotton, wool, ect to help hold in more heat. Undershirt, tee-shirt, sweater, jacket.
Wear more than just jeans on your legs, they don't keep in heat very well. Again, layers- underwear, long underwear is best if you have it, fleece pants/leggings, then a final layer to keep heat trapped.
If you have a hat, wear it. Lock in that sweet body heat.
Long socks are a wonder when its cold out. Layer your socks as well, but make sure they aren't too tight or it will cut off circulation
If you have roommates and/or pets keep them in the room with you- more body heat in one space will keep the room and you all warmer.
If your pets are cold you can put clothes like socks or shirts on them; snuggles are good too. Keep the fur babies warm.
Let your water run very slowly- your pipes will freeze if no water is moving.
Candles are a must- try not to use too many at one time so you don't run out. It'll surprise you how much a candle can do to provide heat.
Do NOT use something for heat that isn't meant to be used indoors- such as an outdoor grill. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real deal and many people die from it.
Cover your doorways and windows with blankets- for your windows I would advise covering them first with clear plastic and then with a blanket. Cover them tightly so it keeps out cold air more efficiently. When the sun is out yoh can move the blanket to let sunlight help warm the room- put the blanket back when the sun is going down.
Roll up clothes, towels ect. that you are not using to fill gaps under the doors. Insulate where you can.
Keep a hand can opener, canned food, granola bars, jerkey, nust and dried foods in the room with you as well as water and other drinks like juices and teas.
Heat any drink you are able to- it will keep you warmer internally. You can heat them over the candle.
Flashlights, and if you have batteries, find all you have and keep them with you.
Line the floor with clothes you aren't using or extra blankets that you have; you want every layer possible for insulation
If you have sleeping bags- Use them. Most sleeping bags are designed to help hold in some heat and every bit counts.
If you have pets or other people in the house- sleep close together. Body heat is a lifesaver.
If you absolutely have to use snow for hydration purposes, make sure you use clean snow and warm it up and melt it first. Eating snow will lower your internal body temperature and will hurt more than help you.
Move around- don't over exert yourself or make yourself sweaty; but moving around is good for your health and will help keep you warm.
If anyone wants to add something please do!
