Part 5 of 5 - Texas Power Outage - What We Learned By Using Our Preps

Video 5 of 5... We are mostly back to normal now, and I wanted to show what that looks like for us. Also, I talk about things we learned from this experience as well as from some of you. Other parts of Texas are still really hurting. My prayers to all of you!
I hope my series convinced you to start prepping!
Five-part video series on how we handled the Texas power outage in February 2021:
Video 1 "How We Are Preparing For a Texas Power Outage This Weekend"
• Part 1 of 5 - How We A...
Video 2 "How We Handled The Texas Power Outage - How We Use Our Basic Preps"
• Part 2 of 5 - How We H...
Video 3 "Texas Power Outage - How We Are Dealing With No Water - Also Some Updates..."
• Part 3 of 5 - Texas Po...
Video 4 "Texas Power Outage - What It's Like to Have To Boil Water For Everyday Chores"
• Part 4 of 5 - Texas Po...
Video 5 "Texas Power Outage - What We Learned By Using Our Preps"
• Part 5 of 5 - Texas Po...
If you would like to support my channel, you can select the "Thanks" button near the "like" and "share" buttons to donate. Thank you!
Below are some of the items we used in the videos:
Delta 1300 Solar Generator (solar power station)
amzn.to/2Zz9kjx
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER Max (similar to my Ecoflow but not the same. Mine is not available) Good little unit!
amzn.to/3bxu94o
HQST 100 Watt Solar Panel (I connect 4 of these in series to my Delta)
amzn.to/3pDPr5A
Berkey Water Filter (Royal Berkey)
amzn.to/3bF1hY4 (If out of this one, try below but more $$ because more filters)
amzn.to/3jqCFaU (more filters)
5 Gallon Stackable Water Storage Containers
amzn.to/383cfWw
WaterBOB Bathtub Storage Emergency Drinking Water Container
amzn.to/3azlfUR
Panasonic Portable AM/FM Radio
amzn.to/2Zz5mYf
Midea 3.5 Cubic Foot Freezer
amzn.to/3uspMAy
Vont Camping Lanturn 2 pack
amzn.to/3qGaXb1
Yaesu FT-60R Handheld Ham Radio
amzn.to/3k8c1lR
OLIGHT S1 500 Lumen Flashlight
amzn.to/3koLUqJ
Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Themometer
amzn.to/3kkpaIw
Tableboard Co Teversible Cutting Board PBB1
amzn.to/2NCmcmA
Sunbeam Velvet Plush Electric Heated Blanket KING size (We got on sale. It is expensive but we had gone through several other blankets that failed. To use lower watts, don't run on high.
amzn.to/3uCpAia
Vornado Room Heater Model MVH. If my link shows more than $59.99, then I suggest shopping at Bed Bath and Beyond or Walmart or Home Depot. Or just check back... The price changes.
amzn.to/3r2JBvY
I plan to compare two water filters, the Grayl and the Sawyer soon:
I just ordered the Grayl Water Filter. It is very expensive, but from what I can see, it really looks awesome. I plan to do a review on it after I get it, but I thought I would add this link for you just in case you wanted to learn a little more about it.
amzn.to/3uMPL5P
Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System. (I have this one)
amzn.to/3r9zW77
This description page contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of them, I will receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you). This helps support my channel and allows me to continue making videos.
If you would like to support my channel, you can select the "Thanks" button on the same line as the "like" and "share" buttons to donate. On computer just click the 3 buttons on that line. Thank you!
Disclaimer: The content provided by PreppingOver50 is for information only. I make no representation regarding the accuracy of the information on this site. In no circumstance shall I have any liability to you for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of the site. You use this site at your own risk. The suggestions I have are for general education and information only and is not a substitute for professional advice.

[@iwrist313]

I'm here in north Texas but reared in the Midwest. Been here for 20 years but never gave up my winter coats, gloves, hats or thermal underwear bc I knew this would eventually happen. I even bought a snow shovel and hiking boots several years ago. My suggestions are: 1. Buy 3 mil plastic and thumb tack to seal all windows and nonused doors. Use pool noodles and masking tape to keep drafts from coming in from entry doors and sealed off bedrooms that are not being used. 2. Use bubble wrap or Reflectex in window that are single paned or you want light to come through. 3.Wash your body in a 1/2 gallon of water every two days and use that same water to wash undergarment while it's still warm 4. Have a 5 gal bucket to poop in. Wood ash, saw dust, mulch, baking soda kills most of the odor. Have a compost bin in the backyard to dump it in. You can separate the urine and mix with water and fertilize your outdoor plants 5. Use your fireplace to heat and cook. Save the wood ash for your gallon toilet 6. Learn to can your food so you dont have to worry about the food going bad in the fridge or freezer 7. Keep rain barrels in the garage for water. 8. Keep your pipes insulated year round. One less thing to worry about. 9. Keep large ice packs in the freezer YEAR ROUND 10 Have a Down Feather comforter... VERY warm That just a few bc I cant think of everything I did bc I practice most of this every winter so it common to me. PS Watch weather guys on YT. They forewarned us about two weeks in advance in comparison to the local news KNOW what black ice is and the signs of its presence on your walkway, driveway, streets...stay home..NO job is worth it

[@mkchris9154]

Thank you thank you thank you for sharing that!!!! Never thought of pool noodles for drafts. Great stuff!!!! The best advice!!

[@annjean8709]

I Hassan, excellent read and tips. Thank you for sharing.

[@PebbleBeachLife]

I've been following prepper videos for years and I felt like I learned more in your 5 videos than the last 5 years. Well done guys. Nothing better than a prepper who was put through the test and passed with flying colors. Amazing.

[@Nonnachella]

Being a diabetic we have 4 different ways to keep my insulin cool. My diet is pretty strict. Long term foods are not for me. I've had to be very creative in having long term foods. I know people will say that you will eat anything when you're hungry, I'm not able to do that. In an emergency I understand that there may not be any one coming. We go over all of our preparedness plans 4 times a year. Things change as time goes on, but it never hurts to always build on what you have. We try to think of everything that could go wrong and plan the best you can. No one knows about our prepping that includes our children. To many people talk and that makes me nervous. Our nearest neighbor is 5 miles away. If everyone just starts small and gives them self's small goals, prepping isn't so over whelming.

[@ms.queenlenorakingsqueensr65]

@M K, I TOTALLY AGREE w/YOU! You're WISE.

[@JonTanOsb]

I keep my insulin in the fridge. Without power, in the winter, I'd freeze ice cream buckets of water outside and put them in the fridge to keep things cold. For long term outages I'd hook my 12 V cooler up to a battery. If I only had a cooler, I'd put ice or snow in a big Zip-Lock bag and put that in the cooler with the insulin. Jon in rural BC, Canada

[@lissaestes7017]

Just one suggestion that may help someone who needs to insulate their windows- I bought a clear plastic shower curtain for each window and folded it in half to double it up. I used the thin metal curtain rings and hung the curtains on tension rods pushed to the top of the window frames. I can still see out, get plenty of light, but it really helps to keep the cold out. I will just put these away for next winter when it gets warm again. So glad you were prepared and did so well. Thank you for sharing your story, for your example, and for your prayers to all affected by this storm. I learned a lot and will be making some improvements in my preps.

[@JonTanOsb]

That's a great idea. Thanks. Jon in rural BC, Canada

[@gonebananas1076]

What an awesome suggestion! Thank you 👍

[@lorimav]

i like the idea of clear shower curtains but don't understand exactly what you mean by tin metal curtain rings. Are these designed for shower curtains or regular curtains? Are these rings used in the shower curtain holes or are they rings that have clips on them?

[@lissaestes7017]

@@lorimav just very thin shower curtain rings using the shower curtain holes. Not the thick plastic kind. Just to save space in the window frame.

[@MrTone075]

I'm studying Texas' situation. Good preps, good stuff.

[@shoutingatclouds6841]

Believe in science, believe in cloud seeding, Cloud seeding has been done for ages now that’s how they get it to snow in New Zealand and that’s how they get it to snow in Texas Texas has a stack of lawsuits against Washington DC we’re obviously being attacked by Washington look at the stack of lawsuits.

[@MrTone075]

@@shoutingatclouds6841 It appears cloud seeding is playing a role. HAARP could be at play as well.

[@francesca9263]

Same here this is the best one so far

[@shoutingatclouds6841]

@@MrTone075 Cloud seeding is like electrically shocking somebody running around telling everybody oh it was a natural bolt of lightning. I mean somethings in science exist. If people don’t believe in cloud seeding I hope they believe in electricity and don’t rely on lightning.

[@MrTone075]

@@shoutingatclouds6841 I read a certain ex computer geek is trying to develop sun-blocking technology and wants people eating soilent I think they call it.... This is crazy

[@LifePrepared]

Pick up a couple thermoses. You can keep the hot water in them to use later in the day instead of boiling again.

[@jelle_smid]

Watched al 5 videos in the last few days. What i really like is that your preps are really down to earth, sensible things that helped you, and your neighbours in a real world emergency. A nice change from the many bragging, 1 million AR15 wielding, bunker building end of the world people on youtube. Well done and you have my respect sir.

[@SirenaSpades]

Hmmm. What makes you think he doesn't have an AR15 or a bunker? lol

[@rvirgo6]

I live in CA and just discovered your channel due to the recent arctic snow in TX. I am very impressed on how prepared you are and were able to think ahead which came handy when this snow storm happened. Being from CA I always have earthquakes on my mind and worry what we will do if a big one hits and we have no electricity no running water and no gas. It’s pretty scary but I think being prepared and having a plan is key. So you have really inspired me to start my own prepping. TY for sharing your helpful tips.

[@lisalee2885]

Hi. I'm in Santa Clarita, California. I've been prepping for years and it feels great. Earth quakes, fires and no electric it just feels like we are ready 🤗🤗🤗

[@JonTanOsb]

@@lisalee2885 I'm just starting out here. We don't get earthquakes six hours in from the west coast, but we do get forest fires and rock slides that close the roads to supplies. I have five gallon water jugs with a hand pump, a 12 V cooler, some candles, matches, lighters and flashlights. The fires mean evacuation, so everything has to fit in my minivan with the pets. I'm looking into an electric generator and some small solar panels as well as a solar battery maintainer because my van barely gets used and I don't want a flat battery when I have to go somewhere. Jon in rural BC, Canada

[@lisalee2885]

@@JonTanOsb Hi Jon...sounds like your doing pretty good so far. I look at my supplies and think...can we live off this if we had too and for how long 😄😄 I'm 55 and single with 2 adult sons and a cat. So I try to cover all the needs. I'm originally from Long Island NY but as a kid we moved to California.

[@JonTanOsb]

@@lisalee2885 Thanks, Lisa. There's always room to improve. I have two kids in their 40s, but it's just me and my two cats in my little one bedroom house. Enough room for an old man. Jon

[@iwrist313]

@@JonTanOsb Lol, I plan to downsize to a 1 BR 1 Bath...less upkeep and easy to prep for

[@tarabrown5666]

I am glad you did your video

[@Letsgocamping143]

So true just to learn from each emergency. I cannot believe how many people, after the covid shortages, people were lining up at stores with no extra food and water put by. Some folks never learn I guess thinking that it won't happen again.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I know...

[@58MrMike]

Our power went out yesterday for only a few hours but it was a great drill to use my DeltaPro and Delta 2. Ordering backup batteries next.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Glad you had those! We have used ours with power outages many times.

[@MrsPumpkinCat]

I appreciate these real life videos. I definitely learned something.

[@stephencullum8255]

Living in rural Florida I have been out of power for up to 3 weeks. Prepping for those events is part of life for me. I have generators to run some house circuits including my well and an assortment of camping stoves for cooking. I keep food stuff that I do not have to refrigerate and water on hand. I have bleach on hand to sanitize water and stored water on hand. I seems smart to me to have on hand kerosine or propane heaters in areas where it can get cold and you lose power. I use to heat an old home that way in the winter. I have used both a stand alone kerosine heaters and a stoves to heat my house. I watched one woman in Texas complain about losing her food in her fridge to spoiling. You could of used coolers outside to keep your food cold. The coolers would keep it from freezing. I think fast on my feet but a lot of people do not. BTW I am also a senior.

[@sherrymeurer]

we added a generac generator to our home about 10 years ago bc my MIL moved in with us and was on oxygen, and we live in Florida too. We were able to pick what outlets and appliances would be connected to that generator and it has been a life saver over the years. Well worth the cost and it turns itself on within 10 seconds when our power goes out. Highly recommend if you can afford one.

[@stephencullum8255]

@@sherrymeurer You can get a predator generator from Harbor Freight for about 300 to 400 dollars . About 4000 watts. This will run basic minimal circuits. Something lower income people might be able to do.

[@deadairconversion]

As long as it works for you, that’s what matters. 👍 I see nothing wrong with what you did. You definitely gave me some good prepping ideas. Good job.

[@bque9444]

First time viewer. Thank you for being humble enough to share what you learned. I understand that top loading freezers are more efficient than front loading ones.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I think I read that myself. What was important to me was I did not want a auto defrost.

[@gigis5017]

We loose power in the winter a couple times a year, we have a bunch of games, Oil lanterns set in each room with a liter next to it as well as extra oil on stock. I have a good stock of laundry pods soap, however, I am adding an 18 lbs bucket of dry powder laundry soap as a LT prep; as powder doesn't go bad, unless it gets moister in it, and that is easily solved by storing in a bucket with a gamma lid once opened. Great videos, I added some of the items from your other videos to my get for preps list for this year- solar panels, sm. generator (we have a gas one).....TY

[@bonnievernon6191]

Get a new toilet plunger and use that to agitate the clothes that’s what I’m planning on doing if I ever have to do it that way.

[@proudseeker4814]

You're awesome to think this far ahead!! No bragging a teaching moment indeed! Thank you.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Thank you

[@tomhicks4097]

It's different in an apartment with no balcony. I'm working on it. Thanks for your post.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

When we moved to Texas, ee stsyed in an apartment. I was going to do a video about what people can do in that case.

[@thelifeofjools8384]

@@LoneStarPrepping that would be really useful...best wishes from the UK 👍

[@mtower235]

Sounds like you did well and picked up lessons. I enjoy these type of reports. I hope it’s motivation for others.

[@nanamurf9430]

Loved watching your 5 part series. We experience power outages every year because of high winds and fire danger. 10 years ago we took a whole week and turned the power off to the house and only used our preps. By the end of the week we new where our flaws were and were able to correct them. We made a game out of it and we all had fun....glad your preps were well thought out!

[@ADKMan]

Failure to prepare is preparing to fail

[@COUNTRY_CUTlE]

I think everyone needs to take something from these situations as life lessons, what can you do to ensure you and your family are fully prepared for the next crisis????? Prepping is survival, we can NOT expect the Government or anyone else to take care of us.They do not care and they are only concerned about taking care of themselves and we need to do the same.... I hope everyone is awake now and they take the initiative to PREP and be ready for whatever could and probably will happen. I commend you for knowledge and your prepping expertise and I think people need to be taking notes and learning from you on how to survive.

[@KhemistryIBMOR]

I agree. But most people ain't that smart. In time, most will soon forget.

[@JohnWhite-Iowa-City]

Thanks for the explanation on the freezer as it makes more sense.

[@LilNrthStar]

Thank you for doing these videos, I'm learning alot and optimizing my prepping as a result! You're awesome! Thank you!!!!

[@jeremiah.k.mathis]

You should have a lot more subscribers! You’re methodical in your approach to prepping. New sub!

[@maybee...]

I have my freezer in the garage where it is always cold, power or no power. Of course I live in a very cold climate. Checking in on neighbors is a great idea. Water will leak out of your tub, but having it there is still a great idea. I purchased as part of my prepping 6 - 5 gallon camping jugs for water, I also purchased a Burkie Water Filtration system.

[@CactusBaby]

Thank you so much for your videos. We live in Victoria, Texas and learned a lot during the ice storm. We have had a lot of prepping done, but we used this as a type of lesson, to see where we are lacking. Now we can finish filling in the blanks. All in all we didn’t do so badly. We always try to have extras to help others/neighbors with as well.

[@sharpcanines3347]

I have learned that you need a well fitted plug in the bathtub, mine leaks

[@rosepaul9681]

I read that you could use a plastic shower curtain or plastic sheet to line your bathtub to prevent leaks or get a water Bob .

[@hollyh9334]

We have occasionally used a baggie, taped down with duct tape, over our drains to stop leaking from the tubs.

[@michaelhenderson5098]

We are in the Houston area. Yep, filled the tubs, and gumbo pots with water for cooking. Car full of gas. Plenty of food to last as needed. Plenty of water for drinking. I drained the water lines just before it really got cold. Thus no busted pipes to deal with. Fortunately we were only out of power for about 30 hours. We have gas so the burners on the stove provided heat. At one point I robbed the solar lights in the flower bed so we could have some free light in each room for about 4 hours. Worked great.

[@gonebananas1076]

I really enjoy your videos. Very practical and helpful.

[@hollywinters5792]

I've enjoyed watching your videos of using preps and learning from this experience. We can learn alot from others experiences. Keep prepping!

[@complexblackness]

You saw the signs and prepared ahead of time. Your 5 part series shows that many people didn't pay attention. Awareness is key.

[@dawnbaker9274]

Just found your channel so I will have be bingeing on your videos for a while.

[@reginamee3777]

I just found you from another person. Thank you for sharing your info with us.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Welcome!

[@wishmom100]

Brand new to your channel. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge and lessons learned. I'm just starting to get into a more serious level of prepping and I'm sure that I'll be watching all of your past videos. So glad that you are getting back to normal

[@anchorageprepper9008]

Thank you for capturing and sharing your lessons learned 👍

[@outbackeddie]

I keep a large roll of plastic sheeting as part of my preps. Several years ago I used it to block off my stairway and some of the downstairs rooms so that I could concentrate the heat from my woodstove into a small area and save fuel. It works great for that purpose.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

We have plastic sheeting as well. If the crisis were ti continue or get worse, I would have started using it.

[@CathAlexandra]

You have nice neighbors, only one checks in on us when hurricanes hit. They are elderly, so we check in on them, mostly. We lost electricity for 2 looong weeks one year. Muck tub and a laundry plunger works great for clothes washing. We have rolling clothes racks in the garage to dry clothes on hangers and clip hangers. Dawn works fine and rinses easily.

[@Bucky1836]

Ive used a drill with a paddle chucked in at deer lease before

[@mgentile7]

here in Richardson !!! Prepping away quietly.....

[@bethpacker1534]

Your videos are SO helpful. Thank you for filming your experience.

[@garrick1117]

I enjoyed your video presentations. It really made me think about some things I had overlooked, and confirmed the importance of being prepared.

[@iunderstanphotography2780]

Thank you for documenting your experience during this crisis. You gave me some ideas I can use way over here in Philly

[@bhamptonkc7]

Freezer, you did fine, putting the refrigerator stuff out I am sure worked great, during a winter storm,

[@tonyrubin7180]

Don't let the negative comments put you down. You did a good job and went though a fubar situation very well. It is also great how much you learned while doing it as well and thank you so much for sharing the experience with us all so we could learn as well. Lots of love and blessings.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

No problem... If you are talking about the people who say to put the food in the snow or outside, I have to assume that they didn't understand the whole story. That's why I said something about it in the video. I am well versed on solar power and know what I am doing. They may not know this because they have not seen my other videos. If after seeing this video and others I have done regarding solar, and they still have that opinion for my situation, there is nothing more I can do. I certainly would not have changed a thing that I did. In fact, I am working on a video right now about how to use a solar power generator, or for the more politically correct... Portable Power Station, when the power goes out. It will be three parts.

[@14sgs]

Thanks. Back Brace. Spot on. I missed that one for me. I'll check out the bread. That's just comfort. ~ nice.

[@Speed00007]

Thanks for all the useful info dude. Glad there are channels like yours on KZbin.

[@ccccclark2605]

Howdy! I'm a new subscriber. From Central Texas. 🇨🇱🇺🇸✝️❤️🙏

[@mamachicken1548]

Really like your informative videos.

[@ChurchLady-g77]

Thank you for taking your precious time to make videos about your experience. This has help me so much as being past 50 how important it is to be prepared. I highly recommend solar panels or a whole home generator installed on your house. Good Faith Energy is a good company for solar panels. Your setup was really impressive!

[@cindysue1139]

Thank you so much for this series of videos. I learned a lot. Your channel came up in suggested videos. I watched and then immediately subscribed . You explain things so clearly and simply. I will be binge watching past videos!

[@rags1602]

Good job. You found out what worked & where you could improve. May I suggest you have some heavy duty plastic sheeting on hand...cover the windows for insulation from the cold.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

We have some stored to seal windows and doors for chemical or biological attack. But I had not though about this use... good idea!

[@mammabirdsworld137]

Very well done videos. Mught suggest if noone has already, if you have a *old school* top load washer filling it with water will give you an added source for cleaning too

[@emilasmith4279]

Great info! So I had mentioned in another comment that I catch the dripping faucet water in jugs (when letting the faucet run during freezing temps). I rethought that idea this week. I have had drains freeze before so it is probably better to let the running water drain to keep the drains open and from freezing. Luckily in Ohio we’re finally coming up into double digits again at night so maybe no frozen pipes this year. // I have a list of misc things to get at big box store this weekend to add to my preps thanks to your experience. Glad your neighbors and you are checking in on each other. I’ve been considering reaching out to my small village to see if anyone wants to talk about prepping and learn from each other. Tfs! Glad you didn’t have any damage to your home! 😃

[@morninglight7544]

Liked and subscribed. Good stuff.

[@bethpacker1534]

By the way, Angry Prepper on KZbin is requesting Texans to contact him to share their survival tips. I think He said he would like to do an interview. You would be so helpful and informative.

[@inbedduringcovid3005]

I like to partially cook meats that I would normally double cook or can. Like pre fried chicken wings and mostly pounded out fried chicken cutlets that lay stacked and flat. Also pre cooking burger patties to render out some fat and shrink a little to save space to cook fat later on grill. And sous vide the 1lb packages of ground pork and ground beef in a Insta pot or sous vide machine. They act like ice packs when layered in the freezer so does packs of smoked bacon. Also cheap preps of pounding out boneless pork loin cutlets after cutting them in chops. A case of the whole loins are so much cheaper. Can make tons of roast out of them to pressure can pulled pork and be the neighbor that takes a meaty pot pie out of basically nothing. Plenty of good ways to fully pack a freezer. Smoked ham steaks and a beef steaks fit in to finish filling all spaces. It's just fun making things work before needing them to Romans 8:18 New International Version Present Suffering and Future Glory 18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.( Amen

[@thomasdipaolo2349]

New sub. Also a 50 somethimg in North Texas. Never considered my self a prepper. Did many of the same thing during last weeks weather event. Like to learn from life experiences. Always been a curious person. Thanks for posting these videos ;)

[@roddrysdale3317]

Really enjoyed your practical approach to prepping. No conspiracy theories and hype… well done

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Thank you. I try to keep it real without the hype. Glad you noticed. 👍

[@moniquespeaksandreactions]

Your experience will certainly help others. New subscriber here. Thanks for sharing

[@thesurvivalist.]

Chest freezers are a lot more efficient then a refrigerator!

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Yep

[@theonewhomjesusloves7360]

"Than"...not "then"

[@SirenaSpades]

This was an amazing series. Great job recording this. Loved seeing how much better you fared by being prepared.

[@MouseToes]

Thank you for making this series of videos of what worked for you! Very informative and I learned a lot from your experience. Had a similar experience in South Carolina with no power for 10 days after ice/snow BUT we did not have temps as low as 5 degrees F.

[@SpringFlowers537]

This is great information

[@bonnievernon6191]

I live in California now but I am originally from Biloxi Mississippi and I remember the pipes freezing never had snow but I could walk to the Gulf of Mexico and go swim and then December I just want you to know that I have thoroughly enjoyed all your videos I’ve watched all of them now I’m 76 years old and I used to go camping quite a bit so I have some knowledge and steal some equipment that I had when I went campaign I know a lot of my friends wouldn’t have a clue of what to do in hard times I wish I could get them to watch your videos

[@travellingonuptozion5658]

Thanks for sharing

[@anthonycouse1798]

First of all NICE reveal on your preparations & their success. Secondary since certainly people are watching this here's a S Florida hurricane tip when water goes down or unclean; disconnect power to your water heater, shut off valve, release pressure safety....that's potable water in there. Spigot at base.

[@annwithaplan9766]

Anthony Couse - Yes! And never empty the water heater if no water will be going back while it's going out (if the heater is still getting power). No water in the heater has resulted in the inside element burning out.

[@robertmurphy3014]

@@annwithaplan9766 He said disconnect the power.

[@annwithaplan9766]

@@robertmurphy3014 - Yes, he did. But I was saying if it was still getting power.

[@gloriapeel6887]

Very interesting! I like the idea of getting together with friends and neighbors and helping each other.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I dont want to stand out as someone with any more preps than anyone else. I dont see anything wrong with offering a little exrta water, for example, if others are offering up some water as well. I could do an entire hour long video on the ethics of surving a crisis and dilemma of wanting to help others yet not wanting to disclose that you have what they want. I wont let that happen. Do you help family? Do you have enough for all you relatives? What about their families? Do you help your best friend? What about their family? Where does it stop? Do you allow other people to join you? If so, must they contribute or do you tun them away if they have no skilks or supplies. These are the type of issues I could get into in another video. Sorry for going on... Its just an interesting topic that many have not thought about. If the Texas outage went on for months, those questions would have to have been dealt with.

[@ChatGPT1111]

After seeing all the riots here last June, I amped up my prepping activity by a factor of 5. I already had small generators, batteries, ham radios with attic antennas, small inverters and food but I added way more long term stored food, propane and natural gas conversion kits for my generators, several water filtration options, a 22KW automatic natural gas whole house gen, upgraded permanent sliding shutters, a real security door for my front porch, bug out kits for BOTH cars that can be split for my motorcycles, 4KW of 200w solar panels that I store and can bring indoors during storms and enough Battleborn lithium batteries to store power for an entire week.

[@mydogzmom5058]

We learned in hurricane Sandy to keep the large igloo cooler (2gallon) ones at each bathroom sink and a 5 gallon one at kitchen sink. Also solar yard lights can recharge in the window For overnight nightlights

[@teambigv]

I got alot of the video of you using your solar generator! Great channel!

[@evvlb2]

This is good information. As I was watching you I went and looked to see if I was faced with the same situation how my preps would work.

[@SyberPrepper]

Loved all these videos. Thanks so much for sharing all this.

[@arcadebrat]

I made beer bread twice during that week. It very simple for us to make. Self rising flour, sugar, beer, and a little melted butter.

[@dawngaskill9122]

I am 54 years old and started prepping for real exactly 1 year ago today. As Italy started talking lockdowns, my groceries started rolling into my home. Now, today, I have 3 campstoves, 1 lb. propane bottles (many) butane cannisters, rv. room heaters and sterno fuel. Lots of tap water stored in clean used milk jugs. My next purchases will be room coolers, in case the power goes out when the temps are high. I have invested in solar and the Jackery portable power station.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

What kind of room cooler are you thinking about?

[@dawngaskill9122]

Battery water cooled. I am prepared for heating in the cold weather, and cooking also. Looking for a battery/solar backup to cool a room. I may be able to purchase a diesel generater for an actual window airconder. But not really ideal.

[@dawngaskill9122]

This can and will happen in any weather. Never let a crises go to waste..

[@mrhalfstep]

Just found your channel and have enjoyed the "What we learned" theme. One thing I'd like to recommend to you, regarding your freezer, is to drape a few quilts or blankets over it, if you have them to spare. You can actually provide more insulation that way than was included into the appliance's original design and it will result in the compressor cycling fewer times throughout the day and a longer life from the charge on your power station.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Ill look into that idea. As it was, it was so cold in the house thst it didnt cycle on oten at al only pulling 35 watt hours.

[@charleyangel1218]

In your preps get disposable diapers rains will come, they hold a lot of water leaky sinks around windows and doors. Then when their full of water open them put filling in plants ,gardens,compost .

[@personaldanceparty5518]

Great idea

[@lagunn327]

Thank you , this was help ful

[@JEFLeb35712]

Thanks for sharing your successes and lessons learned. It helps a lot of people.

[@aliceolivares-chawk8307]

We have a second fridge in our garage and everything in our fridge FROZE during our cold spell and we're in Kansas. 🙂

[@woodspiritstudio]

You can also purchase purifying tablets to add to any water. You can find those in hunting sections at stores. They last forever so keeping them in stock is okay. Also check out the videos on how to create candles that burn for days out of a wide-mouth mason jar, one skinny emergency candle and crisco oil. You can also make a heating unit out of a clay planter/pot and instead of using fast burning wax candles, you can use the crisco candle instead. I hope these tips help... and more so hope you'll never need them! Oh... when dressing for below zero temperatures, alpaca and wool sox are the best... they dont make feet sweat like synthetic material sox. Also try to avoid wearing tight boots and shoes.... your feet will stay warmer if they have good circulation.

[@scottlanghoff8729]

8 drops of UNscented chlorine bleach per gallon of water will also work.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I have those

[@rosemarywilliams9969]

Put your food in snow..."No I'm not going to do that"😂😂 I'm definitely sharing this video👏👏

[@gibblespascack1418]

That freezer uses the amount of power for 2 to 3 lightbulbs. It is similar to my freezer which used 50w when it is running which is about once every few hours while sitting in our basement. It can be run once a day during an emergency and still be fine for years.

[@nickwing6194]

Can you do a review/video on your radio scanner? Communication preps?

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I plan on it!

[@floridaguy1133]

Just found your channel glad to see you folks made it through ok and shared your experiences because we can all learn new ideas and things that can help each other

[@cherylburnett5626]

Good Job.

Still studying for my hamm test and tomorrow programming them. Hopefully the right way

[@LoneStarPrepping]

What radios do you have?

[@BobRooney290]

wow, never seen anyone keep bread in the freezer. i basically mill my own wheat into flour and make homemade bread. i usually keep about 100 pounds of winter red or spring white on hand. i mix them together usually to get the best flavor bread.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

We are thinking of milling our own flour too. I never heard of freezing bread until 2 years ago and there is zero taste difference.

[@titanpreparedness]

Thank you for sharing this whole situation with Us. I enjoy a after action report. And learning from someone with A. Common sense and B. A level head non doomsday style approach. Very well done and i learned a lot. Thank you

[@privateprivate8366]

Yes, I’m considering buying a solar generator but, as I live alone, one of the heavier ones are not an option. I’d prefer to buy a lighter weight one and, over time, buy one or two even smaller ones for other rooms.

[@SirenaSpades]

I have several of them. You really need a higher powered one to use it for anything.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

I had one in my other home. I design and built a 10,000 watt solar generator in 2015. I have a video of it on my YT channel.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Look into an Ecoflow R600

[@privateprivate8366]

Sirena Spades well, I’m an apartment dweller. Other than the power I need for a light and a laptop in either the bedroom and/or living room, during a power outage, I probably only need power for the 745 watt fridge in the kitchen.

[@privateprivate8366]

PreppingOver50 I was thinking about a Yeti Goal Zero 1000 or 1400 for expandability, over the course of time.

[@gordonreeder3451]

Thanks for sharing. We tend to prepare for the mythical Zombie Apocalypse or The End of the World as we Know it with only a vague notion of what to expect.. But emergencies like the one in Texas serve as a good rehearsal, or case study on what it will actually be like. Glad you made it through OK. Others who had not prepared did not fare as well.

[@travellingonuptozion5658]

I use b.b.que pits to preserves. Meat..and to cook and stay warm

[@victorialg1270]

Ignore criticism. That is more prevalent today than oxygen. You got the generators for the purpose you used them. Thank you for sharing the things you learned.

[@suzylarry1]

on one of your video's (early power connections) I think you should limit the length of power extension cord as this will effect the end amperage.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

If you are talking about the storm video series, I already calculated loss and it is very minimal. If you are talking about my 10,000 watt system, the panels were as clise as I could get them. They were on roof right over my system.

[@cherylbishop7657]

I think they were talking to people who fell to prepare, you're a prepper you have backup power . Food outside is for those who don't. GOD BLESS

[@LoneStarPrepping]

One would think so; however, I have been specifically attacked by several people for choosing to put it on my solar unit rather than putting my food in the snow. Most people who understand the entire story totally get it.

[@ezmealstravels9221]

Great information 👍👍since I don't eat that much meat so I've got lots of grains and like oatmeal, tuna, beans, rice, canned salmon, nuts, powder milk. Etcétera stuff that doesn't need to be refrigerated and it can keep you fed for a few Weeks. God bless🙏

[@SirenaSpades]

I haven't eaten meat in almost 40 years.

[@fiddlesticksbessette398]

'' well buddy,your a lucky mn to have had that tex sense of ''dry run''.you might want to explain what kind of power you have,to generate electric for your home,etc.i bought a small electric power supply unit for $250.00and come to find out,it's only good for charging sell phone's,lat top's,etc.wont even keep my small frizer unit on,ugh.good vid buddy.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Please see other videos on my site. I have those details. The solar powered portable power units were a Delta 1300 and Ecoflow R600 Pro

[@stonethecrowshomestead]

Great info. Food in snow animals can get

[@SirenaSpades]

It's interesting that you had this weird blackout electricity on/off thing happening during the electricity outage. That doesn't happen in my location - that would be awesome! When we lose power for 3 weeks - it is out - FOR 3 WEEKS!!! We don't get it back on, which would be GREAT!! to heat the house back up every day and do stuff and help out with stuff. Whew, that would be so great during 30 below zero. It would be a lot more survivable. Good thing I guess that we spend a crap ton of money on fuel and generators :/ etc.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Thats because the power was being shut off and on by the electric company on purpose. I have lived in the mountains with lots of snow and week long outages, and yes, this was weird. Problem is, just as the heat pump started to work, the power would go off. So it never warmed up.

[@rwinga01]

Thanks for these videos, they are really helpful. I bought the same deep freeze as you guys did, but it only came with one basket. In this video it looks like you have 2. Just curious where you were able to find a second basket. Thanks.

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Could not find one that fits perfect, so we bought one on amazon that was a little long and pulled the sides out a little which shortened the length... WR21X10208 White Refrigerator Freezer Basket

[@rwinga01]

Thanks a lot, I’ll pursue that as well. Have a great day!

[@nickwing6194]

Awesome video!!! Do you have a link for the temperature gauge you have in your freezer?

[@LoneStarPrepping]

Ill put it in