As temperatures dip, conserving body heat becomes more and more critical. Here are some strategies for maintaining warmth in the event that you must wait for heat or power to be restored.

  • Outfit yourself in heavy clothing, particularly bulky outerwear. If possible wear several layers on your hands and feet. Always wear a warm hat, as an uncovered head results in greater body heat loss.
  • Select a "Warm Zone" for the house. Ideally, this would be a room that is away from prevailing winds, has good insulation, does not have many windows and is isolated from other unheated areas. Rooms with a fireplace or other sources of heat are also ideal candidates. Use towels or blankets to stop drafts from cooling the selected room.
  • Utilize blankets, sleeping bags, large towels, rugs and other materials to create a pocket in the "Warm Zone" that can better trap body warmth. Huddling close together is a good way to pool body heat.
  • Close all drapes and window coverings. If cold air can still be felt, consider covering windows with towels or extra blankets.
  • Cover openings under doors with towels and/or blankets.