The National Weather Service shared some tips on how to stay warm when the power is out on their Facebook page. Most importantly, Texas residents who find themselves without power during the NWS’s “winter storm warning,” in effect until 6:00 AM central standard time on Thursday, should follow these tips to stay warm and safe.
Block Drafts
Given the urgency of the current situation, the National Weather Service (NWS) recommends closing all blinds and curtains. It would help if you also stuffed towels or rags in cracks under doors. Doing this can help you stay warm until full power can be restored by preventing heat from escaping through cracks around your windows and doors.
Close Off Some Rooms
The NWS also recommends that you “move all activities to a main room and close the remaining interior doors to retain heat.” Dressing for the cold by wearing “layers of loose-fitting, lightweight warm clothing” and “gathering blankets, sleeping bags, and flashlights” is also being advised. Finally, the NWS encourages you to keep extra clothing layers handy.
Light Up Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, now’s the time to light them up, taking necessary precautions to remain safe. These include using fire safeguards and adequately ventilating. Alternatively, if you have a portable or whole-house generator, you can use that to power the essentials. That includes your oven/stove and furnace/heater. Always follow manufacture directions and use generators in a well-ventilated area.
Stay Hydrated and Prevent Hunger
The NWS advises eating as “food provides energy to warm the body” and staying hydrated while avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Choose foods with high carbohydrates, such as is found in some vegetables and milk products. Also, if available, eat meat and fish. These foods can naturally warm the body since they take longer to digest.
Please Stay Safe!
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Resources:
“How to Keep Warm Without Power.” U.S. National Weather Service Fort Worth Texas Facebook page.
“Improving the Energy Efficiency of Existing Windows.” The U.S. Department of Energy.
“Staying Warm During a Power Outage.” @NWSKansasCity.
“What to do if you’re caught in a winter storm.” The National Weather Service.