Winter Storm Preparation: Staying Safe and Warm Without Power - Part 3

Watch for signs of hypothermia or inadequate heating. Your assistance may save their lives. Is it safe to use electric space heaters? Modern electric space heaters include safety features like tip-over switches and overheat protection. Use only UL-listed heaters in good condition. Plug directly into wall outlets, never extension cords unless heavy-duty. Keep 3 feet from combustibles. Never operate while sleeping. Don't use in bathrooms or near water. Check cords for damage. Feel outlets for dangerous heat. One heater per circuit prevents overloads. Electric heaters work safely with proper use but require respect. They're excellent for zone heating with generator power. What foods are best during winter power outages? Focus on hearty, warming foods requiring minimal preparation. Canned soups and stews provide complete meals. Peanut butter offers protein and calories. Hot cereals like oatmeal warm internally. Dried fruits and nuts provide energy. Crackers and canned meats create simple meals. Hot chocolate and tea boost morale and warmth. Avoid foods requiring extensive water or cooking. Plan for higher caloric needs in cold. Include comfort foods maintaining spirits. Keep manual can openers accessible. How do I know when pipes are starting to freeze? Warning signs include: reduced water flow from faucets, unusual sounds from pipes, frost visible on exposed pipes, and cold spots on walls containing plumbing. Kitchen and bathroom fixtures on exterior walls show symptoms first. If faucets produce only trickles, ice is forming. Strange odors from drains indicate frozen traps. Act immediately when you notice these signs - partial freezing can be reversed, complete freezing causes bursts. Time is critical once freezing begins.