How to Survive the Polar Vortex
How to Survive the Polar Vortex
Over the past few days, a polar vortex is gripping much of the United States and Canada. What’s the best way to survive this frigid weather? Silver Sage Magazine researched what to do before the cold hits your area, during the freezing temperatures and afterwards. First, don’t panic. Like all storms, this too shall pass. However, it is definitely beneficial to be prepared than not.
Here’s some things you can do before the cold snap hits your town:
- If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel for it.
- Consider purchasing an indoor propane heater which is safe for indoor use (while most generators are not).
- Think about weather proofing your windows and doors if they aren’t sealed that well. Insulated curtains or honeycomb shades are good insulators. Door draft stoppers are a great thing to have even after the storm.
- Make sure your pets have enough food for a couple of weeks and consider purchasing them some outerwear, especially if they’re not used to the cold either.
- Make sure each family member has appropriate clothing. For many who live in areas not used to the cold – it’s time to go shopping. For those used to the cold, pull out the wool socks, slippers, long underwear and fleece pajamas.
- Check to make sure you have extra blankets, candles and lighters as well as fleece sheets for a cozier night sleep.
- Make sure all your batteries are charged: computers, cell phones, etc.
- Have gallons and gallons of water stored if you can – they come in handy to flush toilets, cook with and wash.
- If you don’t have hand warmers or foot warmers, great time to stock up.
- Call your loved ones, neighbors and the elderly to see if everyone is okay or needs help.
Right before the storm hits:
- Fill your bathtubs and sinks with water, in case you lose power.
- Test your generator for a trial run.
- Reload firewood so you have a full stock.
- Add extra heat to your abode in case you lose power. Turn your thermostat up higher in your house, condo or apartment hours before the storm. It will raise the temperature to keep it warmer longer, just in case.
- Turn off heat registers or close vents in areas not needed like extra bedrooms. Close doors inside the house to rooms unused, especially any rooms with an exterior wall.
- Use those door draft stoppers and close all curtains.
- Make sure your cars all have fuel.
- Have some board games and card games on hand.
- Find out if there will be any emergency shelters set up in your town.
- Check in with your loved ones and make sure everyone is okay.
During the storm:
- Stay calm.
- Shelter in place.
- Have layers of clothing set out for each family member so that as it gets colder inside, you’re prepared.
- Don’t take a bath or shower unless absolutely necessary. Getting wet, especially wet hair can make you feel much colder.
- If you lose power, it’s fun for children and grandchildren to make forts with sheets and blankets and the close proximity of everyone will help generate heat.
- Consider hunkering down in the basement if it’s been prepared. Those gale force winds may be dangerous.
- Use your cell phone and electronic devices sparingly. You never know how long it may take for the storm to pass or the power to restore and those batteries won’t last forever.
After the polar vortex :
- Be thankful you’re alive.
- Take inventory of any damage.
- Make sure your family members and friends that live near and far are all okay.
If you have any other tips, let us know!
