01/23/2026
All joking aside, this is a very serious storm headed our way. Get your running done today and gather any necessary supplies. Prepare for possible energy shortages or even outages. Check on loved ones, the elderly and other vulnerable people in your area. Ensure your electronics are charged and think about what you may need in the event of a power outage where travel may be impossible. Here are some essential tips in the event of power loss:
Essential Heat Retention & Safety:
• Stay in One Room
• Gather in one room, preferably on a higher floor as heat rises, and close off unused rooms to conserve heat.
• Insulate Doors/Windows: Use towels, blankets, or rugs to block drafts under doors and over window cracks.
•Layer Up: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including hats, mittens, and scarves, to retain body heat.
• Safety First: Never use generators, charcoal grills, or camp stoves indoors, as they produce deadly carbon monoxide.
• Safe Heating: Only use fireplaces or wood stoves if they are properly ventilated and up to code.
• Food and Water Safety
Keep Fridge/Freezer Closed: A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for 4 hours; a full freezer maintains temperature for 48 hours.
•Use Outdoor Cold: Keep food in a cooler outside or in a cold garage.
• Hydration: Drink fluids, but avoid caffeine or alcohol, as they can cause dehydration and lower body temperature.
Preventing Hypothermia and Pipe Freezing:
•Monitor Health: Watch for signs of hypothermia (shivering, slurred speech, memory loss) and frostbite (numbness, white/pale skin).
• Protect Pipes: Open cabinets under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, and let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing.
Preparation Tips (If Power Is Not Yet Out):
• Charge phones, laptops, and portable power banks.
• Fill bathtubs with water for cleaning and toilet flushing.
• Have flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio ready.
Most of all, do everything you can to be self sufficient for your particular needs. It may be very difficult or even impossible for emergency services to reach you.
