Losing power in the middle of a winter storm isn’t just inconvenient, when temperatures plunge, it can quickly become dangerous. If you’re facing days without electricity in bitter cold, here’s what to do to protect yourself, your family, and your home.
First: Preserve Heat Inside Your Home
If you still have heat but expect to lose power soon:
- Close off unused rooms to concentrate warmth
- Hang blankets or towels over doorways
- Cover windows with curtains or spare blankets at night
- Keep everyone gathered in one main room, preferably one with the fewest windows
According to Ready.gov, conserving heat is one of the most important first steps during winter power outages.
Dress for Survival, Indoors
Even inside, treat this like being outdoors:
- Wear layers: thermal base layer, fleece or wool, then a heavier outer layer
- Use hats, gloves, thick socks, even inside
- Sleep under multiple blankets, including sleeping bags if you have them
- Let children and pets sleep close to adults for shared warmth
The Red Cross notes body heat conservation can significantly reduce the risk of hypothermia indoors.
Use Heaters, Safely
If you use alternative heat sources:
- Never use grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors
- Use only approved indoor-safe heaters
- Keep heaters at least 3 feet from anything flammable
- Install or check carbon monoxide detectors if you have them
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a leading cause of winter storm deaths, according to the National Weather Service.
Food, Water, and Cooking
Eat non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking. If you must heat food, use outdoor grills only, outside. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold.
Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause massive damage once power returns:
- Let faucets drip slowly
- Open cabinet doors under sinks
- If your home is losing heat rapidly, shut off water at the main valve if you know how. This step alone can save thousands in repairs.
Stay Informed, Even Without Power
- Use a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Sign up for local emergency alerts on your phone
- Check in with neighbors if it’s safe to do so. Community check-ins are especially important for older adults and those living alone.
Know When to Leave
If indoor temperatures drop dangerously low and you cannot safely heat your space:
- Go to a warming center, friend’s home, or hotel if possible
- Bring pets as many shelters and warming centers accommodate them
- Don’t wait until conditions become unsafe
The Red Cross emphasizes relocating early is safer than waiting until hypothermia sets in.
If the power goes out in extreme cold, staying calm and methodical matters. Focus on conserving heat, dressing appropriately, using heat sources safely, and protecting your home. Preparation and smart decisions can turn a dangerous situation into a manageable one, even if it lasts several days.
