My mom and I were on our way home from Shaumburg, the other day and heard a commercial for Black Diamond. They are selling generators that are said to power your entire house. Now, that's all fine and dandy if you can afford a generator. But what if you can't? Are you screwed? Are you stuck with rotting food, hot conditions (if it's summer), cold conditions (if it's winter), no lights at night, and no entertainment? I think not! Here are some cheap and easy ways to get through a power outage.
As far as food goes, it's always a good idea to keep a small to medium size stock pile of canned and boxed goods. Now I know what the health food people are going to say... "What about sodium?!? Canned goods and boxed goods are always high in sodium!" Now, maybe it's just me, but when the power goes out, keeping my sodium low isn't my most important priority. Also, there are low sodium options out there. Now, what about your milk and ice cream and stuff that will go bad in the refrigerator? Ice! If you have a cooler, I've found it's a good idea to pack your perishables into a cooler and cover them in ice. Many coolers will keep the ice in it's solid form for up to 90 hours. If you do not have a cooler, then just pack the ice in the fridge and freezer! I know you'll have to spend some money on the ice, but it's not that expensive. If all else fails, at least you have an excuse to eat all the ice cream!
Now, what to do in the event the power goes out and it's scorching hot outside? Close the curtains and the shades! Walmart has some cheap, $10.00 battery operated fans that will last a few hours before needing to have the batteries replaced. Also, that ice you just bought for your food will help keep you cool! Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and don't worry about that yard work outside. Dress in loose, thin clothing and keep your hair up! No one likes it when their hair sticks to their neck.
But what if it's winter and it's freezing cold outside? Well, I've always found it useful to keep a stockpile of "Hot Hands" and "Toasty Toes". They're cheap, and generally come out during fall and winter. Cuddling under a blanket by yourself, or a loved one, with a couple Hot Hands will warm you up quickly! Gas stoves can be used during a power outage, if you're careful. Use the stove to make some hot tea, or a hot meal. Wear your coats and mittens, and double up on the socks. If you have a fireplace, light it. If not, then lighting multiple candles may help with the heat situation. Just don't leave them unattended.
Winter or summer, it doesn't matter... power outages can get PRETTTTY boring! In this day in age, with all the technology, how on EARTH will we survive without electricity? Simple... go back to your childhood. Play Monopoly (except with my sister, you'll never win) by flashlight! Or, tell stories or read a book out loud! Need to clean your room? Now is as good a time as any, since you don't have time to hang out on Facebook or play Halo! I've also found that, when the electricity goes out, it's easier to bond with your family. If you still live with your parents, talk to them! They're not as bad as you think they are, I promise. I've also found marshmallow poker to be a fun, electricity-free game.
Some very important things to keep in mind are, make sure that your cell phone is ALWAYS fully charged, just in case there is an emergency. Keep flashlights and extra batteries handy. Be sure to have at least one fire extinguisher (just in case you have a fireplace/candle accident) somewhere in the house. If you are able to, check in on your neighbors, friends, and family. Also, be sure to have a first aid kit somewhere in the house.
If I missed anything, or you have an interesting tip to give, do not hesitate to leave a comment!
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