Recently came off of 3 days and 2 nights with NO POWER, in the dead of winter. We had just recovered from Round 1 of the winter storms, when Round 2 came. Ever had your weather shift about 30-40 degrees in the difference of a day? No? Me either. We had heavy snow, then rain/melting snow, then all of that evaporated snow came down in the form of freezing rain, which froze even more overnight (yes, that is possible). Oh yeah, then we had high winds followed by more snow/freezing rain. In the span of 5 days, I lost power twice and the second time for 3 whole days.
Now, for some that's "nbd". But, this is my first house, just me and my pup, and no parental unit to run shield me from the scary parts. The first night without power we "roughed" it and slept in front of the gas fireplace, which is run via battery power. By the second night I had to swallow my pride and take a friend up on her offer for both me and the pup to sleep at her place. I am so glad we did, because the temperature continued to drop. I kept wondering about neighbors in my area and how they were staying warm! By day 3, I was running out of ideas for what to safely do with my dog. I looked like I was living out of my car ('go bag', sleeping bag, work stuff bag, dog stuff bag, pillow, and dog). My "good" string instruments were safely secured in a controlled temp-environment.
Did I mention, it was also a concert weekend for me?
Let me just say, I was so ready to quit adulting.
However, through it all not once did I feel "fear". Sure, I felt like I wasn't 100% equipped to deal with this new experience, but I knew God wouldn't be given more than I could handle. I also knew that my prayers would be answered. Example 1: During the howling gale of night 1, a lot of trees/tree limbs were coming down. I prayed throughout the night that my house, my property, and me/my dog would be kept safe/protected/whole. Answered. Example 2: I prayed that we (me & my pup) would be able to handle this. Answered. Example 3: Prayed for no water damage/pipes freezing. Answered. Example 4: By day 3, mega praying for power restoration, because I had reached my limit & was beginning to worry about my neighbors. Answered. Example 5: I prayed that those around me would also have protection over their homes and property. Answered.
God is good. He supplied our needs and kept us safe.
How to survive a power outage in the dead of winter:
1) Keep a few faucets set to drip to keep the pipes from freezing.
2) If you have the options of an auto functioning fireplace set a minimum temp for it to kick on at; if you have a would burning, make sure you have enough dry would and starter.
3) Have plenty of powerful flashlights/lanterns & batteries.
4) Look into investing in a camp stove so you can at least cook/heat food.
5) Pack a go bag (essentials: toothbrush/paste, travel toiletries, extra (warm) clothes/ underwear/socks, device chargers, cash); sleeping bag & pillow; "essential"electronics.
6) For pet owners - pack your pet a go bag (food for 4-5 days, water, dishes, blanket, leash, 1 toy).
7) Don't let pride or fear keep you from making safe/smart decisions.
8) Remember to be thankful for what you do have and look out for others if you can.
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