When a power outage hits, most people have to scramble for basic needs such as food, water and heating which can prove to be scarce in extreme situations. Here are some ideas to help prepare for those needs when it’s absolutely necessary.

Having Food on Hand

You never know when a winter storm can get bad enough to cause a power outage. When a power outage occurs there’s risk of whatever food you have to go bad. It’s a good idea to stock up on non-perishable food when you can. Having non-perishable foods on hand can help greatly if you still need a generator to be able to keep the fridge or freezer running.

Dehydrating food and canning fruits and veggies can also prove beneficial. On this note it is a good idea to start a garden in the summer so that you are able to can these items yourself at a much lower cost.

Preparing Food

You can always invest in gas cooking devices. They are convenient and along with a propane tank, like those from Kitsap Propane, always at the ready, it can be a life saver. You also need to be aware of the gas bill as it will possibly rise so it is a good idea to keep this in mind.

Another possibility is to build an outdoor kitchen. Now granted no one wants to freeze while eating, but your main focus is to keep you and your family fed. So as long as you bundle up first, it should be bearable enough to cook in.

A decent plan is to station a wood burning stove. With this, you can have the option to cook in your home as well as provide heat.

You can always have a clean oil drum with the metal grate from a grill waiting in your shed for just these emergency situations. Fill it with wood and old newspaper to create the fire and there you go. Not to mention with this idea the fire is contained and safe. Be sure to always keep fire such as this outside the home.

Heating

If you’re in the middle of a winter power outage, electric heating is out of the question. For this extreme circumstance, gas logs are a perfect idea. These give out enormous amounts of heat and would definitely keep you warm.

Another option is a wood burning fireplace. Of course, you would need to keep it clean and make sure it is ready in case you need it at any point.

Lastly a wood burning stove may be an option. Again, not only would it be a sufficient way to cook but also a great way to stay warm.

It’s also good to have plenty of blankets on hand for bundling up in the event of a winter power outage. If you need a generator, it is good to look for one before winter hits and the prices haven’t gone up. However, having a generator means you can possibly run your home’s heating system just enough to keep the house tolerable, have hot water, and more.

Obtaining Water

When an extreme winter hits it can possibly freeze pipes making it impossible to get water. You may want to keep your milk gallon containers, clean them out and fill them with water. You must keep in mind that you need to bathe and keep yourself hydrated so having several of these in the garage or in a closet is a great way to stock up on water in the event of extreme weather.

To heat water for food preparation as well as bathing—should the storm go on that long—you may want to invest in a propane tank so that you can heat small amounts on a cooking device.

Dealing with a power outage during winter can be a cause for concern, but with these helpful tips you will make it through by thinking ahead and staying safe.