Lessons from 2000: How to Survive Winter Storm Fern Without Losing Your Cool

We are all thinking about Fern the Winter Storm that is headed our way. Many of us are having flashbacks of the 2000 Texarkana Ice Storm, when we all lost power and water on Christmas Day.

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Most of us were without power and water for at least four or five days. Others in the rural areas surrounding Texarkana were without power for weeks

But it's not the time to panic, it's time to reflect and use that experience to our advantage. A few things I learned may help you or maybe jog your memory.

The big worry? If the power goes out!

Here Are Things I Learned From the Texarkana Ice Storm of 2000

Buy bottled water for drinking. Fill jugs and buckets with water. My sweet husband taught me a few great hacks like, like filling your bathtub with water and using it to flush the toilet.  Flushing the toilet this way is easy! Just fill a bucket with water and then pour it quickly into the toilet; this will automatically start the flushing process. You can also use the water in the bathtub for washing.

Sleep in The Room With the Fireplace 

If you have gas logs or a fireplace, you have a great advantage. Bring the blankets and sleeping bags in and sleep in the room with the heat source.

Ration Candles

Ration your candles; you might need them longer than expected. I tried to read by candlelight last time, and it is not as romantic as it sounds.

It's Okay to Go to Sleep When the Sun Goes Down

When the sun goes down, it's okay to just go to sleep.  You will realize when day breaks, you only have a few hours of light. Try to cook or grill your meals and eat before the sun goes down.

Don't Wash Your Hair

Oh this is the biggest lesson I learned! Do not wash your hair and get your hair wet! When the water came back on back in 2000, we had a gas water heater. I thought,

'Heck yeah, hot shower here I come!'

The shower was great, but I also washed my hair. I forgot that most of the house was only 20 degrees, and there was no electricity to run the blow dryer. My hair was wet forever! Do not get your hair wet!

This is a Great Bonding Time With Your Pet

Our pets always want more time with us. This is the perfect time to give them exactly what they are craving...more play and cuddle time. Plus, if you get a little down or overwhelmed by the situation, our pets are always ready to listen to us. Especially, after you give them a treat! I think my cat Izzy is secretly looking forward to the weather this weekend.

Other Things to Think About

Other things to do: Charge your phone and battery packs. You can also charge your phone in your car.

And last but very important, check on your neighbors and family, especially the older ones.