10 Ways to Keep Your Home Warm During a Power Outage

Millions of Americans are bracing for a historic winter storm this weekend, including the Texarkana area. Some of the coldest Arctic air is expected to drop temperatures to record lows.

Staying warm is a top priority if the power goes down. It won't take long for your home to start turning cold, so knowing what to do is essential to surviving this wintery blast.

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Winter Storm Warning and Ice Storm Warning Remains in Effect in the Ark-La-Tex

Temperatures are expected to drop into the single digits by Sunday night, with predictions ranging from 7 degrees to 3 degrees in Texarkana. A significant amount of ice accumulation on power lines and trees is likely to knock out the power.

Unless you have a power generator or other means to stay warm, it can be brutal and life-threatening if you don't know what to do.

10 Things You Can Do To Keep You and Your Family Warm in a Power Outage

• The first thing to do is close the doors to other rooms and find a small room to gather family members
• Wearing layered clothing, thermal wear, sweaters, coats, hats, and gloves to retain body heat. Doing this creates a warmer room.
• Wear warm hats, scarves, and gloves. Most body heat is lost through exposed heads and hands
• Use extra blankets and fleece to stay warm or insulated sleeping bags. If you have a gas stove, you can fill the bottle with hot water and place it in your sleeping bag or under a blanket for warmth.
• Insulate windows and under doors with pillows, blankets, or rolled-up towels to keep cold air from getting inside.
• If you have a log or gas fireplace, seal off other rooms and use this main room to stay warm. Use propane or kerosene heaters only if they are rated for indoor use, and the room is well ventilated.

• Try to stay active and moving to keep blood circulation flowing in your body for body heat.
• Eat warm soup, liquids, or warm foods to raise your internal body temperature.
• Bonus Tip: Set up a small tent inside to trap body heat in a smaller, insulated space.

Here's a quick guide on what you can do and shouldn't do when trying to stay warm when the power is down.

READ MORE: 25+ Foods You Can Eat Without Refrigeration

Staying warm doesn't always have to be uncomfortable or life-threatening if you follow these simple guidelines. And yes, Spring couldn't get here any faster.