EXTREME
TEMPERATURE
Survival Guide
INTRODUCTION
However, they tend to overlook planning for
more likely minor disasters that could linger
and escalate into significant, life-altering events.
Our nation’s power infrastructure is grappling
with age-related challenges. Recent events
like the Texas snowmageddon and rolling
blackouts across America underscore the grid’s
vulnerability.
This guide delves into a scenario involving
an extended grid outage during extreme hot
or cold weather. Let’s be honest: our lives
heavily rely on electricity, utilities, lighting,
and the comforts of Heating, Ventilation,
and Air Conditioning (HVAC). While our
contemporary constructions are built around
Greetings, my name is Kris, also known as City these conveniences, the reality is that they are
Prepping, and my involvement in emergency prone to vulnerabilities and failures. When these
preparedness spans several decades. Over the pillars are absent, our homes can transform
last several years, I’ve built a community of over from sanctuaries into hazardous spaces,
950,000 subscribers on my YouTube channel. contrary to our desired safe-havens.
During that time, I’ve gained a new level of
appreciation for being prepared during these
times of uncertainty and have learned from the
community’s insight.
This journey with my community has instilled
within me a deep understanding of the
significance and wisdom of preparedness. The
wealth of insights and responses from this
expansive community of like-minded individuals
has remarkably enhanced my knowledge and In an era where power grid failures are
comprehension. I feel compelled to share this becoming more frequent, preparing for
knowledge freely with as many people as prolonged power outages has never been more
possible. crucial. Our reliance on electricity to heat our
homes during cold winters and cool them in
scorching summers has become a vulnerability.
This guide aims to equip you with essential
strategies to make your home livable during
extended power disruptions during extreme
heat or cold periods. Whether you’re facing
soaring temperatures or freezing conditions,
Often, people associate prepping with getting these practical steps will help you maintain a
ready for an extreme, once in a lifetime event. safe and comfortable environment for you and
your family.
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WINTER
Every winter, the possibility of a prolonged power outage during extreme cold
becomes a genuine concern. Without proper preparation, this scenario can be
catastrophic. Whether you’re facing an ongoing power outage or planning for the
winter season, this guide will provide you with what you need to ensure your safety
and comfort.
MAXIMIZING WARMTH AND COMFORT
DURING A WINTER POWER OUTAGE
Radiate Warmth Isolating yourself in a small, sealed room
One of the critical strategies for surviving is crucial to preserving heat. Use plastic
a winter power outage is to maximize sheeting and duct tape to seal windows
radiant heat sources. Hot water bottles, and doors, and place rolled towels at
thermoses filled with hot water, and door cracks. Opt for a smaller room as it’s
a personal electric heater or blanket easier to warm and maintain. Consider
plugged into a backup power source setting up a tent or makeshift fort within
(which we’ll discuss momentarily) can this room over something like a tablet,
significantly raise ambient temperatures. as tents provide insulation and help keep
Warming water for beverages and using temperatures up. Creating a multiple-
a heating pad can help maintain your layer bed and dressing in layers will
average body temperature. further aid in retaining body heat.
Sealed Small Room with a Tent Dress Smarter
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Dressing appropriately for extreme dense foods such as fats and starches will
cold is essential. Layering clothing with help your body generate heat through
water-wicking base layers, fleece jackets, thermogenesis. Hot beverages and soups
gloves, mitts, scarves, and insulated also contribute to maintaining body
boots will help you maintain a balanced warmth.
temperature. Avoid sweating, as moisture
can lead to discomfort and decreased
warmth.
Keep the Water Flowing
Maintaining access to water is crucial.
Partially fill sinks, bathtubs, and
containers with water as soon as the
power goes out. Leave faucets on a slight
trickle to prevent freezing. If possible,
insulate exposed pipes to prevent them Know Your Resources
from freezing. Storing warm water in Before the cold sets in, identify local
thermoses and hot water bottles helps warming centers your community offers.
with core temperature, and a backup Community centers, homeless shelters,
water supply is essential. places of worship, public libraries, and
public buildings may be designated
Exercise & Diet warming centers during extreme cold
Engaging in light exercise upon waking spells. Understand the resources available
and in the early afternoon can elevate to you in case of power loss.
your core temperature. Eating calorie-
PLANNING FOR WINTER SURVIVAL
Food & Water logs and charcoal briquettes can provide
continuous burning for warmth. During
the warmer months, insulate pipes and
repair any drafts you can find.
Safety
Before anything else, ensure your safety.
Many will use fires from candles or old
Stock up on non-perishable food to last heating units that may no longer be
at least three weeks. Ensure you have a safe. Have a battery-operated carbon
way to rehydrate and cook these foods. monoxide sensor alarm and a decent-
Consider a portable camping stove and sized fire extinguisher. Consider your
store water in a warm room (preferably neighbors and the impact they may
the one you’re sheltering in) to prevent have on you (since you live in such close
freezing. proximity) if you live in an apartment.
Create A Safe Space
If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s ready
for use before cold weather. Duraflame
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Warmth Some containers can be stacked to
form an insulative barrier. Even in cold
weather, hydration is crucial. Drink warm
liquids and maintain a water supply. Avoid
alcohol, as it can dehydrate you.
Seal windows and create a vapor lock
using plastic sheeting and duct tape.
Use sleeping bags, blankets, and electric
blankets for warmth. Set up a small tent Communication
or makeshift fort in your designated room A small emergency radio is vital for
to insulate and contain heat. A Mr. Heater staying informed. Ideally purchase one
Buddy is a very popular option for an with a hand crank to allow you to plug in
indoor heater. If you do use one of these, your cell phone to charge it.
make sure you have proper ventilation
and a battery operated carbon monoxide Power
alarm. Avoid DIY heaters involving open Consider investing in small solar panels
flames such as a terra-cotta heater (we for electronics and a solar generator
don’t recommend them) as any potential setup for power. Have extension cords
advantage does not outweigh the risk. with splitters for power distribution. How
much power do you need? I cover that
Lighting here.
Damage Prevention
Cover outdoor faucets and allow indoor
faucets to drip to prevent freezing.
Consider shutting off water to the house
and draining pipes in extreme cold.
Have LED headlamps, lanterns, and
flashlights. Consider alternatives to open
flames for safety.
Cooking
A clean fuel camping stove is essential for
cooking. Prioritize warming and easy-to- When the Power Goes Out
cook foods like canned soups and chili. Designate a room for shelter and start
Utilize fireplaces, thermal cookers, or solar sealing it off. Close off rooms that will
cookers for heating and cooking. Make remain unused. Maintain sanitation and
sure you have a safe source of fuel. check on neighbors for safety.
Water For more information, watch our video,
Store water in containers and bring them “How to survive a winter power outage
to your heated area to prevent freezing. and stay warm”.
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SUMMER
The potential for extended power outages during extreme heat becomes a real
worry every summer. Without appropriate preparation, this situation can lead to
severe consequences. Whether you’re confronted with a continuous power outage or
preparing for the summer season, this information will equip you with the essentials to
guarantee your safety and well-being.
MAXIMIZING STAYING COOL DURING A
SUMMER POWER OUTAGE
Staying in the Shade a light source for safety. Traditional
candles and heat-emitting sources are
not recommended (their fire safety
risk outweigh their benefits in most
scenarios). Opt for glow sticks, LED
lights, or electric lanterns. These sources
produce minimal heat and offer sufficient
illumination. Regularly check and maintain
batteries in your light sources to ensure
When the sun’s intensity peaks, seeking they’re ready when needed.
shade becomes your ally. Close windows
and blinds during the day to keep Promoting Air Circulation
out heat. Position fans strategically
to pull cool air indoors when cooler
air is available. Find the coolest room,
preferably on the lower level, and prepare
to stay in this area. Keep doors closed to
hotter rooms to maintain a temperature-
stable environment.
Illumination without the Heat
Even during heat waves, you need
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Air circulation aids in even temperature you’ve got a power source, position fans
distribution and provides a cooling effect strategically to create cross-ventilation.
by encouraging sweat evaporation. Fans Conversely, shut windows and draw
are indispensable during a heatwave curtains to retain coolness before outdoor
(if you have a backup power source). temperatures rise again.
Battery-operated personal fans and
handheld misters can keep you cool. If Embrace Rest and Relaxation
possible, run fans using backup power In extreme conditions, conserving energy
sources or solar panels. Placing frozen is paramount. Avoid strenuous activities
water bottles in front of fans can enhance that generate body heat, especially
the cooling effect. during the peak heat of the day (this
is why in some countries, people rest
Cooling Alternatives during the afternoon (aka siesta). Opt
With air conditioning units down for relaxation and save energy. Cooking
during power outages, consider cooling should be minimized as it raises indoor
alternatives. Evaporative air cooler fans or temperatures. Opt for no-cook or quickly
ice can provide localized cooling. Portable warmed foods. Hot foods require the
air conditioners are effective but require body to expend slightly more calories
a substantial amount of power requiring than cold food.
a gas or solar generator. Solar generators
offer an “infinite” energy source (as long Hydrotherapy
as you have solar panels and ample sun)
to run fans and other cooling systems
when paired with solar panels, but they’re
not cheap. Evaluate your needs and
choose the best cooling solution for your
situation.
Dress Smarter
Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics
in light colors. Microfiber cooling towels Water is your ally against heat. Soak
and loose-fitting clothes will help regulate in cool baths or showers for a cooling
body temperature. Go topless, if you can, effect. Stay hydrated with water, coconut
to keep your core area cooler. water, or hydrating fluids. If the humidity
is medium to low, use a mister to spritz
Temperature Management yourself. Run water over your pulse
points.
Know Cooling Centers
Identify local cooling centers like malls,
hospitals, or community buildings during
heatwaves. Seek natural shade in parks
with trees or bodies of water.
As night falls, assess outdoor Watch our video, “How to survive a
temperatures. If it is cooler outside, summer power outage and stay cool” for
open windows and doors to ventilate more information.
your home and release trapped heat. If
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WEATHER/WHETHER
HOT OR COLD - SIX
PREPPER ESSENTIALS
You may have noticed some overlaps tablets, especially if boiling isn’t an
between hot and cold survival regarding option. Don’t just store water; ensure
the essential things you need to know. I you can also treat and drink from natural
have categorized these core six prepper sources.
essentials to get you through most
disasters--hot or cold weather. Getting Hydration is so critical after a disaster.
these six essentials in order will provide Even without a disaster, many people
you with a foundation from which you can are walking around in a constant state
grow. Remember that for each, you must of dehydration. Don’t be one of them,
be sure you have a minimum of two to as it will complicate your ability to make
three weeks’ supply. sound decisions. Set a schedule to drink
water regularly. Use powdered drink
Water mixes for flavor and electrolyte powders
The first essential is water. Aim for a to enhance your hydration.
minimum of 1 gallon per day per person,
with 3 gallons being ideal. Use BPA-free Food
containers for storage. Freeze-prone
containers should be filled to ¾ capacity
(this allows for expansion as the water
freezes and prevents it rupturing the
container).
Besides storage, address water treatment.
Failures in municipal systems can lead to
contamination. Use solutions like sawyer
mini water filter or water purification
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Food is essential; relying on last-minute detectors, preferably battery-operated,
grocery trips before disasters isn’t and be cautious with devices after
enough. Americans usually have just a disasters.
few days of food. Aim for at least two
to three weeks of calorically dense food Power
at a minimum. Consume at least 1,800
calories (expect you’ll need more if
you’re active) with a balance of macros
(protein, carbs, and fats which we detail
in our 3 week emergency food video).
Basics like beans, rice, and pasta are
versatile. Freeze-dried food supplements
are convenient. Meals should require no
more than boiling water. Consider mild
multivitamins and electrolyte powders for
stable metabolism during disasters.
Cooking Assess your electricity reliance and meet
those needs minimally. Remember, the
more power you need, the larger the
generator and fuel needed (or the larger
the battery system and solar panels
you’d need if you have a solar setup). For
instance, if you require medication that
requires stable refrigeration temperatures,
a small dorm fridge paired with a portable
solar generator (and solar panels) would
work. Portable generators vary from ICE
(internal combustion engine that run on
propane, gas, or diesel) to solar (a battery
Cooking is vital for surviving a two- paired with solar panels and an inverter);
week grid-down scenario. Consider solar generators are essentially unlimited
your cooking methods, like using a power sources when paired with solar
propane stove for boiling and cooking panels but dependent on sunlight (the
(with adequate propane supply and sun doesn’t always shine). ICE generators
ventilation). Apartment dwellers face are typically more affordable (initially)
limitations due to indoor safety concerns. and offer more on demand power but
If unable to afford a safe indoor propane can not be utilized safely indoors, emit
stove, cooking over candles or Sterno is fumes, rely on a finite fuel source, and
an option. Immediately after a disaster, alert others around you as they are noisy.
you won’t be cooking fancy meals, Which one is better? It depends on your
so cooking should be the equivalent situation and budget.
of heating food to recommended
temperatures and bringing water to a
and light to avoid drawing attention. A
cooking source can double as a heating
source, as seen during situations like the
Texas freeze. Keep carbon monoxide
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Medicine a tent indoors during power outages
and freezing weather creates warmth.
Using tarps and blankets to build a fort
over furniture stabilizes temperature.
Go beyond mylar blankets for warmth—
include wool blankets, hats, gloves, and
scarves. Prepare for wet conditions, stay
dry, and understand heatstroke signs and
remedies during hot weather crises.
Months before each season, consider your
preparedness for the weather. Inventory
Regarding medicine, consider three your current preps at least every quarter.
aspects: maintenance, first aid, and If you can’t live in the weather occurring
accessible information. For maintenance, out your window right now when the
include daily drugs, potential EpiPen furnace goes out, or the air conditioning
needs, and allergy treatments. Consider stops, what do you need to do to survive
purchasing a basic first aid kit starting the climate? Exposure to the elements
with essentials like quality bandages, and without protection will kill a person
consider adding a tourniquet (do not buy faster than dehydration or starvation, so
the ones on Amazon as they are often consider this as you prep.
cheap knock offs…we highly recommend
this one). Also, plan for information As you navigate the challenges of
availability with a practical medical prolonged power outages during extreme
handbook, as internet access might be heat or cold, remember that advanced
unavailable in emergencies. Additionally, preparation is vital. By implementing
consider having crucial medications in these strategies, you can maintain a
your inventory. In a significant crisis, 9-1-1 livable environment for you and your
and emergency services may not be able loved ones. Whether combating scorching
to make it to you at all, and getting to the temperatures or freezing cold, your ability
hospital may be very difficult. to regulate core temperature, utilize
available resources, and adapt to the
Climate & Shelter situation will significantly enhance your
Adapt to your current climate far chances of survival. Stay informed, stay
ahead of a disaster. Before winter and prepared, and ensure your home is ready
summer, review corresponding preps. to weather any storm.
Unconventional as it seems, setting up
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