10 Tips for Staying Warm – (If The Power Goes Out)

Winter storms can be brutal, especially if the power goes out. Staying warm without electricity isn’t just about comfort—it’s about survival. In this video, we’re sharing 10 practical tips to help you and your family stay warm during a power outage. Whether you’re fully prepared with off-grid heat sources or finding yourself caught off guard, these tips will help you make the best of the situation and stay safe.

We’ve ranked these tips from most prepared to least prepared, starting with strategies for those who planned ahead and finishing with advice for those who didn’t anticipate the power going out. Here’s a preview of what you’ll learn:

1. Use a Backup Heat Source: If you’ve planned ahead, having a wood stove, propane heater, or other off-grid heating source is ideal. Make sure it’s safe for indoor use and properly ventilated.
2. Layer Strategically: Wear thermal layers, wool socks, hats, and gloves. Layers trap heat more effectively than a single heavy item, keeping you warm longer.
3. Seal Off Unused Rooms: Close doors to unused areas and concentrate heat in a smaller, enclosed space. Use blankets or towels to block drafts around doors and windows.
4. Insulate Windows and Doors: Cover windows with plastic sheeting or hang heavy curtains to trap heat. Roll up towels or blankets to block drafts under doors.
5. Huddle for Body Heat: Gather everyone in one room and share body heat. Cuddle under blankets or sleeping bags to stay warmer together.
6. Set Up an Emergency Shelter Indoors: If your home loses heat, create a smaller warm space by setting up a tent or blanket fort in your living room.
7. Use Hot Water Bottles: Fill water bottles with warm water and place them in your bedding. If you have access to a fireplace or stove, heat stones or bricks to use as radiant heat sources.
8. Eat and Drink Wisely: Consume high-calorie foods to fuel your body and drink warm liquids like tea or broth to maintain internal heat. Avoid alcohol—it makes you feel warm but lowers core body temperature.
9. Run a Car Heater Safely: If you have no other options, warm up in your car, but make sure it’s outside or well-ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
10. Pile on Every Blanket and Layer: For those caught off guard, your best bet is layering every piece of clothing and blanket available. Stay still and conserve energy until conditions improve.

00:00 Introduction
00:54 Use a Backup Heat Source
02:11 Dress in Layers
02:41 Seal Off Rooms
03:29 Insulate Windows and Doors
03:55 Huddle Together for Body Heat
04:08 Build an Emergency Shelter Indoors
04:37 Use Hot Water Bottles or Warmed Objects
05:39 Eat and Drink to Generate Heat
06:04 Run a Car Heater Safely
06:24 Huddle and Wait

No matter your level of preparedness, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t let the cold catch you off guard—stay safe, stay warm, and share your own tips in the comments!

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