Even a simple evening power outage during winter will transform a regular evening into a tense and unpleasant experience. Outages in winter are particularly difficult due to shorter days, temperatures that are freezing, and limited daylight. Heavy snow, storms, or even high energy demand could leave you better off than unprepared and unaware of how to react to the situation, being prepared is usually the key.
The Challenge of Staying Warm During a Power Cut
The issue of how to keep warm is one of the greatest when there is a power outage in winter. In most cases of absence of electricity, the central heating systems cease operations and the temperature in the buildings can fall rapidly. This is the reason why it is necessary to have other methods of storing heat. A large number of families are planning ahead and taking energy saving alternatives including heated blankets by Stoov that do not need constant Mains power to offer warmth.
Stay Warm Without Power
When there is an outage in winter the first step is to preserve body heat. Begin by shutting the doors not in use to ensure that the warm-up is concentrated in a smaller area. Cover the windows with heavy curtains or blankets to minimize the loss of heat and put on layered garments of insulating material such as wool and fleece.
Pocket warmers can also come in very conveniently. Electric heating items that are battery-powered or rechargeable are gaining popularity due to the ability to work even during a power outage. As an example, Stoov heated blankets provide a convenient means to keep warm when sitting, resting or sleeping during an outage to keep warm as the traditional heating system is not available.
Create a Safe and Comfortable Living Space
Create an area that you will use as your primary living room in the power outage. Preferably, it must be a smaller room that can hold heat better. Take blankets, cushions and sleep bags to make it cozy and comfortable to all in the house.
Use of a fireplace or a wood burning stove should be done safely and well ventilated. Do not use outdoor grills, gas stoves, and candles as the main sources of heat in the house because they may be very hazardous in terms of fire and carbon monoxide. Rather concentrate on safe and home warmth products.
Manage Light and Visibility
Another problem that occurs during winter outages is lighting since the dark sets in early. Have torches, battery powered lamps or LED lanterns readily available. These alternatives are less dangerous compared to candles and limit the possibility of accidental fires.
The proper placement of lights in the common areas would allow them to maintain the feeling of normality and decrease stress especially in children or older members of the family. It is also important to conserve battery life by switching off lights when not necessary because sometimes winter power outages can take longer than anticipated.
Eating and Hot Beverages During a Power Outage
It is important to be fed and hydrated in cold weather. Even without electricity you can still cook food and water with a gas stove which does not need electricity. Otherwise, use non-perishable foods like canned food products, nuts, and energy bars.
Hot beverages may be used to give warmth as well as comfort. An insulated thermos already pre-filled with hot tea, coffee or soup can be a godsend during a power outage in winter. It can help a lot to plan ahead and to have a few thermoses prepared.
Stay Informed and Connected
Through information during power outage, you make the right choices. A radio powered by battery or hand-crank will enable you to get the weather updates and the news of local authorities. It is also quite important to keep your phone charged with power banks in case of any communication and emergency.
Use your phone sparingly so that you can save power, and use power saving mode. Visiting neighbors, particularly the old and single persons, can also serve the purpose of making sure they are all safe.
Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Winter power cuts can best be countered by preparation. Prepare an emergency kit which consists of warmups, blankets, portable heating devices, torches, batteries, foodstuff, water, and first-aid kit. To make the life of a person more comfortable and less stressful, it is possible to invest in some reliable personal heating devices like the ones produced by Stoov: the heated blanket will help to feel better and relax in the event of some unexpected shutdown.
Power cuts during the winter are never a good thing, but when properly prepared and minded they need not be so daunting. With the use of warmth, safety, and smart thinking, you will be able to ride through an outage in winter without any hassle.
