Molly Ayala
Living without electricity for three days may seem daunting, but with some preparation and adjustments, it is possible to survive and even thrive. When the power goes out, several essential functions are lost, such as lighting, heating or cooling, running water, and the use of electronic devices and appliances. However, by understanding our dependency on electricity and making a few simple preparations, we can increase our chances of survival and maintain a certain level of comfort during a power outage. This guide will provide valuable insights and practical tips on how to survive 3 days without electricity, covering topics such as alternative energy sources, food preservation, cooking methods, lighting options, and entertainment ideas.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Power sources | Solar panels, wind turbines, hydropower systems, car batteries, propane, butane, wood stoves, gas stoves, grills, campfires |
| Food preservation | Purchase dry ice and wrap it in newspaper before placing it in the refrigerator; open fridge only when necessary; cover fridge and freezer with thick blankets; cook perishable food first |
| Cooking | Camping stoves, propane or butane cans, grills, barbecues, wood stoves, gas stoves, fireplaces |
| Lighting | Candles, electric candles, battery-powered string lights, lanterns, camping headlamps |
| Water | Store several gallons of water; fill the bathtub |
| Hygiene | Paper plates, cups, and utensils; Purell |
| Entertainment | iPod, battery-powered Bluetooth speaker |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking and preserving food
To preserve food, keep perishables in your fridge cold. Purchase a block of dry ice, wrap it in newspaper, and place it in your refrigerator. Only open your fridge and freezer when necessary, and consider covering them with thick blankets to keep the temperature down. Make sure the vents are not covered. On the first day of the blackout, cook and eat perishable foods first. Most refrigerated food should not be eaten after sitting in temperatures above 40ºF (4.4ºC) for longer than two hours.
Stock up on non-perishable foods that don't require a lot of preparation, such as canned soups, beans, rice, and dried fruit. If you have the means to grow your own fruits and vegetables, this can also help reduce your dependence on refrigerated food.
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Alternative sources of power
Solar Power
Solar power is a popular choice for those seeking an off-grid lifestyle. Solar generators, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, can be crucial for off-grid living, providing a green power solution to run light or heavy-duty devices. Installing solar panels allows you to harness the power of the sun and generate electricity. While solar energy is renewable and eco-friendly, it is important to note that upfront costs can be high, and there may be days without sufficient sunlight to recharge.
Wind Power
Wind turbines are another alternative energy option. They can harness wind power to generate electricity, but their effectiveness depends on the wind availability in your area.
Hydropower
If your property is located near a lake or river, hydropower can be a great alternative energy source. This renewable energy option uses the flow of water to generate electricity.
Bicycle Generator
A bicycle generator is a unique option that combines exercise with electricity generation. By riding a bicycle, you can generate power to charge your electronic devices and even light your lamps.
Renewable Fuels
Using renewable fuels, such as biofuels, natural gas, propane, biodiesel, biomass, and ethanol, can be an alternative to traditional fossil fuels. These fuels can be used for cooking, heating, and powering certain appliances.
Backup Generators
Investing in a backup generator can be crucial for powering your essential electric items during a power outage. While it may not be your primary source of electricity, it can provide temporary relief and power essential devices in an emergency.
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Heating and cooling
If you are facing a power outage during a heatwave, there are several ways to keep your home cool. First, keep windows open at night and close them before it gets hot outside. Block as much light as possible using reflective material or white cloth. Mylar blankets on the backs of curtains are also great. Avoid running electronics, keep the fridge/freezer closed, and avoid cooking indoors. Drink lots of water and consider electrolyte drinks. You can also use frozen face washers: wet a face washer, lay it flat on a cookie sheet, put it in the freezer, and place it on the back of your neck, on your face, or wear it like a hat. You can also freeze 2L milk/juice bottles with saltwater in them. If you have access to a gas stove or any other non-electric cooking appliance, you should quickly cook and eat any food that will spoil without electricity.
If you are facing a power outage during cold weather, there are also several ways to keep your home warm. If you have a fireplace, maintain a good-sized fire throughout the day and night. If you don't have a fireplace, be sure the damper is closed tightly to block cold air from entering your home. Invest in a carbon monoxide detector with battery backup. Wrap yourself in blankets, and wear layers of clothes, including fleece-lined pants and/or tights, wool socks, and a wool cap. If you have a gas range, boil water and pour it into a hot water bottle. If you have to go outside, seek out an alternate location with heating, such as a public warming site.
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Water and sanitation
Water is essential for drinking, but also for sanitation. The Red Cross suggests having at least one gallon of water per person per day. For a family of three, that would be 21 gallons of water for a week. If you cannot store or buy this much water, you can learn how to purify water in other ways.
If you have advance notice of a power outage, fill your bathtub with water. You can also stockpile water in your house. Make sure you have enough water for sanitation, as well as drinking.
If you have a gas cooktop, only make one-pot meals. Washing dishes without running water is challenging. You may want to use disposable paper plates, cups, and utensils.
If you have access to a hot shower and an endless supply of water, take advantage of it. If you don't have running water, it's difficult to wash your hands, so make sure to have hand sanitizer in the bathroom.
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Entertainment and communication
Entertainment
- Stock up on batteries to power battery-operated entertainment devices such as iPods and Bluetooth speakers.
- Purchase regular and electric candles, as well as battery-powered string lights, to illuminate your space and create a cosy atmosphere.
- If you have a fireplace, gather firewood to keep the space warm and create a comforting ambiance.
- Consider investing in a wood-burning stove for cooking and warmth.
- If you have a garden, spend time outdoors and tend to your plants.
- Play board games or card games, especially if you have company.
- If you have a car, you can use the cigarette lighter to charge your phone and play music.
Communication
- Ensure your phone is fully charged before the outage, and conserve its battery by minimising usage during the blackout.
- Write down important phone numbers and addresses, such as hospitals, schools, libraries, or storm shelters, as your phone may not be dependable for an extended period.
- If possible, keep a portable charger handy and fully charged to extend your phone's battery life.
- If you have a landline telephone, it may still work during a power outage, providing a means of communication.
- If you have neighbours or community members nearby, consider interacting with them directly, as they may have valuable information or updates regarding the power situation.
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Frequently asked questions
You can keep perishables in your fridge cold by purchasing a block of dry ice, wrapping it in newspaper, and placing it in your refrigerator. You can also cook perishable foods first and eat out if possible.
You can use candles, battery-powered string lights, and flashlights to light your house.
You can charge your phone through your car battery. It is also a good idea to have an external charger ready.
