Choose a room with minimal windows and interior walls (e.g., bathroom, closet, or central bedroom).
Bring bedding, water, and supplies.
Body heat multiplies when people huddle together.
Overnight Survival Tips
4. Create a “Bed Cocoon”
Sleep in layers: thermal pajamas + socks + hat.
Place hot water bottles (or sealed soda bottles filled with hot tap water) at your core (armpits, groin).
Cover yourself with multiple blankets—add a plastic sheet or emergency blanket on top to trap heat (not next to skin).
5. Insulate Windows & Doors
Hang heavy curtains, quilts, or cardboard over windows.
Tape plastic sheeting over drafty panes.
Stuff rolled towels along door bottoms.
6. Use Your Oven? NO.
Never use a gas oven, stove, or charcoal grill indoors—carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and deadly.
Only use outdoor-safe heaters inside if they’re specifically rated for indoor use (e.g., Mr. Heater Buddy with oxygen sensor).
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Safe Heat Sources (If Available)
Source
Safe?
Notes
Propane heater (indoor-rated)
Yes
Must have ODS (oxygen depletion sensor)
Camping stove (butane/propane)
No
Produces CO—only use outdoors
Fireplace or wood stove
Yes
Ensure chimney is clean and damper open
Car exhaust
Never
Deadly CO risk—even in garage
Candles
Limited
Provide minimal heat; fire hazard. Use only in metal holders, never unattended.
Install battery-operated CO and smoke detectors—test them monthly.
Long-Term Prep (Before the Next Outage)
Stockpile: Wool blankets, sleeping bags, hand/foot warmers, thermal clothing.
Insulate: Weatherstrip doors, add window film, use door sweeps.
Know your home: Identify the smallest, most insulated room for emergencies.
Have a plan: Where will you go if temps drop below freezing? (e.g., friend’s house, warming center)
Special Considerations
Infants & elderly: Lose heat faster. Monitor closely; keep core warm.
Pets: Bring them into your warm zone; provide extra bedding.
Medications: Some require refrigeration—have a cooler + ice pack ready.
What NOT to Do
Don’t burn charcoal, grills, or camp stoves indoors.
Don’t leave candles unattended.
Don’t ignore shivering—it’s early hypothermia.
Don’t sleep in a car with engine running (CO risk).
Final Tip: Conserve Body Heat, Not Just House Heat
Your body is your best furnace. Eat high-calorie snacks (nuts, chocolate), drink warm non-alcoholic fluids, and stay dry. Movement generates heat—gentle exercises like marching in place help.
“Warmth isn’t just about temperature—it’s about wisdom, preparation, and care.”
Stay safe, stay warm—and remember: the goal isn’t comfort, it’s survival until power ret
