15 Must Have Items for Power Outages!

[@cherylei6258]

I drape a couple of strands of fairy lights around the room during a storm as a source of comfort for the kids.

[@tammihughes6229]

I gave my grand daughter a head lamp that she wears as a necklace.

[@wu1847]

Great idea! Thank you

[@justnana2256]

I love that idea. Thanks!

[@dagneytaggart7707]

​@@ImaOKay522 Love that idea. Also changes something scary to an adventure.

[@kimeverhart6253]

Wonderful idea! Thank you!

[@cherylei6258]

I forgot to share that I have installed puck lights under the kitchen cabinets and in the bathroom so that I always have a light exactly where I need it and it never “walks away”. I change the batteries every year on my birthday. It’s a gift I give myself.

[@rosanneciccia7918]

Ive done the same thing but also have put a flashlight in each bedroom as well

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

I bought a bunch of those when the $ store was still $1, originally just for my camper but got more for the house….. they last forever !!!

[@patriot1902]

Yes! Those magnetic under the counter lights are great. I have the rechargeable ones in back up and pull them all out every couple months and too them off

[@tigerguitara]

Brilliant

[@kleineroteHex]

We had some years ago, leave one on in the kitchen, the batteries were constantly drained, one week max. May be they make better ones now?

[@rmhendrickson9320]

Most people don't realize that dishwashers are normally waterproof. If you have a storm coming, put your important. Paperwork, hopefully sealed, in there. With anything else you want to protect

[@wandabrindamour8473]

Yup, top rack in case you need to open the dishwasher prior to the water receeding the base height.

[@btracey]

Fabulous idea. I never really thought about that😊

[@sigabou7296]

Clever❤

[@daryaun1111]

Wow I never thought of this thanks

[@lifeiseverything9]

Thanks

[@CraigAnderson-h2h]

Hurricane Helene just showed us that in a real disaster everything goes down. The AC grid, the lights, no electricity, food in the frig goes bad, no water and so on. It is way more devastating than people imagine!

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@CraigAnderson-h2h you can purchase sealable plastic septic tanks and burying them in the yard. Put your reserve supplies inside and they will always be available no matter what is happening on the surface. Some people are using them for storm shelters also.

[@mswetra2610]

So many were prepared but everything was washed away😢

[@CraigAnderson-h2h]

@@mswetra2610 Yeah, preppers ought to take note.

[@conniekline9881]

Some never imagined it would happen, as it had never happened to their knowledge. It is now getting colder in the mountains and if someone doesn’t have a wood stove or fireplace, it will get cold. Helene taught many survivors where their holes in supplies were, unfortunately.

[@adhaincroi]

Yup we learned from Katrina that sometimes prepared isn't really prepared. we are pared down prepared and very mobile now. I can bug out of my house with food etc for days in a few minutes. we stay pare down prepared. Hurricanes bring so many different types of issues.

[@Jadapa]

I put my matches in a jar and tape the strike plate in the lid.!

[@i2sky532]

Smart!

[@trishthedish-n9u]

I keep my matches in a tin container. Also store bic lighters in a tin container. I but tins at yard sales.

[@er8gg]

Great idea!

[@nopenever6214]

A lady on YT said to dip your matches in clear nail polish.

[@helenkentwell5042]

I watched a Preppers vid a couple of years ago suggesting that a small pop up tent would keep you very warm if the power was out in a particularly cold region. Put it up inside with blankets or other covers over it. Pillows and blankets inside. Zip it up to a comfortable air flow and maybe a candle safely located inside in a sauspan or whatever which would generate more heat if required. Even two in the tent or the family pet sounded sensible. Could be a life saver in freezing weather conditions.

[@kathy2940]

Even the candles that take batteries they’re great. They last long time. mine take two AA batteries for each candle. They even flicker like a real candle and they light up very well.

[@maryhicks4396]

Really? Would oil lamps keep a small room warm? I have 4 hurricane lamps.??!!

[@helenkentwell5042]

@@kathy2940 the battery candles sound great for lighting especially if someone had kids in a tiny tent. The Preppers I watched were doing temperature testing with real candles to see the temperature difference and the real candle apparently added to the warming. Could be a safety issue if not careful.

[@helenkentwell5042]

@@maryhicks4396 a hurricane lamp should put out a bit of warmth and more than a candle. Either would possibly let off some smelly fumes which may be unpleasant in a tiny space . Our breath and body warmth may be enough to warm the tent. I thought the tent was a great idea in any case . I lived in a snow region here in Australia when I was younger with only a fire in the lounge room. My bedroom was pretty cold and I had to have extra clothes and blankets and cover my head to keep my nose warm. We only had a hot water bottle for our feet. There was no warming that room in a big old sandstone building with 12 foot high ceilings. The water pipes and flush toilet froze every night so I respected the Preppers coming up with the tent idea.

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@helenkentwell5042 may I suggest you take your idea a step further. Do what our ancestors did before central heating. Convert all your beds to poster beds, with heavy drapes or even cheap space blankets. You can DIY with threaded iron pipes from a Home Supply Store and spray paint them. Or 2x4s will work as well and if you are lucky enough to have a store that will cut wood for you, you can bring home the pieces and just screw them together.

[@homesteadlady3acrehomestead]

I hope you get to read this funny little bit. Twentyfive years ago a hurricane blew over us at the beach and left us with no power for 7 days. About day three I was feeling ugly with no coffee at that point. I woke up to find my husband had taken my campfire percolator, hung it from a chain on the porch and stood his work blowtorch under it to make me some I feel pretty again java juice, giggling. It was after that experience that we became preppers. I even have an outdoor kitchen set up now. Nothing fancy, but we can proceed as usual if power goes out.

[@idonttiptoe1519]

That is seriously the most romantic thing! ❤

[@Meyersci]

I use a CPAP machine at night due to sleep apnea. Recently we did some tent camping away from the vehicle and had to invest in a Jackery power supply. It was a good investment for future uses. During the night we could both charge the phones, it also has a bright light on it. After one night there was 85% of the power left, and charged up in about 45 minutes from a power source. In addition, we could have set up our (sort of) portable solar panel if we were not in a forest and away from the vehicle by a few miles. Something else to remember in storms is to have fuel or charged batteries for your chain saw. In Texas, it was crucial to have mosquito repellant, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor cleanup after storms. And always..deodorant.

[@BeAHappyCamper2Day]

Hey. I see that you use a CPAP . You should check out Dr Kenneth Berry about any health issue and Dr Anthony Chaffe. It's the carnivore way of eating ( diet) . Google ailment and carnivore. Other doctors may pop up. Also watch Homesteadhow. I am pretty sure he had to use this , but he had all kinds of issues and is better.. I just started for chronic pain and fatigue. I am FINALLY sleeping. Read comments on every site on carnivore. There's a Lot of information. . Also ,if you are on a low budget , Google that and carnivore. Dr Berry has inflammation on that too. I wish you well. I love camping

[@jaimietollison7722]

I vacuum sealed my important documents as we live in a potential flood zone.

[@patriciatinkey2677]

Brilliant!

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@jaimietollison7722 hope you have a second and third floor!

[@heathermetz6576]

Good idea.

[@meaniebeavers1112]

I have many solar lights and battery lights. This week I went to dentist for 3 broken teeth that flare up occasionally. I was thinking what would happen if I couldn’t access a dentist when needed so I have an appointment with oral surgeon to have them removed. I’m petrified of dentist but more fearful of not being able to access one if needed. This is my prep for the week. Feeling courageous 💪🏼😆

[@marcellajohnson3757]

I also took care of dentist work! I wanted all my ducks in a row ! Such a relief, and I don't like the visit anymore than you do !

[@rcinsley]

I'm doing the same with cataract surgery. I hate the idea...but am more fearful that providers may be difficult/impossible to find in the months ahead.

[@michellegilb4091]

Doing the same lol

[@NBlack-di2zn]

Did mine last year for the same reasons. It wasn't near as bad as I had imagined for years! Funny how many years of pain we will endure to put off a couple days for a cure.

[@circlethewagons19]

There is a book that is very hard to find. Amazon might have one or two left💚: Where There is No Dentist - Murray Dickson

[@chareefabiano8173]

When Katrina hit our home in Buras, Louisiana I had some pictures in a box that was made by Tupperware. They survived it fine. After it came and we went back to assess the damage. The dishwasher was full of mud. Also the safe deposit boxes at the bank were also soaked. Tupperware and the vacuum bags work best

[@heathermetz6576]

Tupperware and vacuum sealed documents.

[@livingthegoodlifeinwales]

Hey Leisa. I was really proud if myself yesterday. I received a public information leaflet through my door about power cuts here in the UK. All it basically said was to make sure you had extra blankets, flash lights and batteries plus charge your mobile phone if you had advance warning. Sooooo I emailed them and said they should be working with other agencies to also advise people about having at least a short term food supply and ways of actually heating and eating that food. I sent them a link to a recent government website. Go me.😂👊

[@livingthegoodlifeinwales]

Oh and of course, I mentioned about the fondue pot!😊

[@SuttonsDaze]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@hollyh8509]

Why the power cuts? That’s what I would want to know. 1) is there work being done? 2) or the UK like in the states hasn’t upgraded the power grid because the government is wasting our taxpayers money and spending it on themselves? 3) or are they planning another nefarious crisis, man-made of course? Just wondering, the original list they gave you is a joke!

[@patriciatinkey2677]

You are Absolutly Brilliant!😎📚🍀

[@livingthegoodlifeinwales]

@@patriciatinkey2677 thank you! ❤ It felt great to share information and to get a really positive response, too.

[@stephaniehoffsted8291]

OMG my little brother used to say " get your poop in a group" . Ty for that. He's gone now. That made my heart smile

[@DavidPotter-k1d]

@@stephaniehoffsted8291 Yeah, sewer plant operators say it too...

[@DebraMorris-q6r]

Hand crank flashlights hanging on all door knobs, a bbq that you can bake in. Praying for those in the path of the storm❤

[@sislertx]

Ya know I bought aeveral decades ago..theynwere the type ya dhake..never could get one to work and moved on..perhaps they are better..same with hand cra k radios I got three years ago..terrible...and the batter banks all failed too.

[@countygirl6023]

Must have in my house are baby wipes for hygiene. I take care of my mom, she has dementia, we are on a well so when the power goes out they are the best at cleaning her when she has accidents. we also used them on ourselves and our grandchildren.

[@lauracooskey9481]

A cheap alternative, or if you run out and can't get to the store, is any kind of paper towel or multiply-folded toilet tissue, or even soft cloths that you can reuse (or if you have tons of fabric and are queasy about re-use, you can throw away and have a whole pile of little squares ready-cut...) anyway, this paper or fabric plus oil. I mean face or body oil or even kitchen vegetable oil. I regularly use an outhouse instead of toilet, so of course there's no running water in it. I keep a little pump glass bottle of body/face scented oil next to the TP. Dribble some of the oil on the TP and voila, a baby wipe (aka "butt wipe"). Works very well. Of course, i usually come in to wash my hands, but if i couldn't, a last step would be rubbing alcohol for my hands.

[@StopAgenda21]

Just added this to my list, thank you!

[@GGsGarden]

Instant coffee, instant iced coffee, and pour over coffee maker. Luckily for me, I’m very fond of peanut butter on a spoon and the chocolate chips in the freezer;)

[@fourdayhomestead2839]

@@GGsGarden instant coffee fairly cheap here. Glad I have plenty in use & rotate.

[@debbiee6535]

Well that's a good start😂😂😂

[@giancolabird]

Yummm

[@cat58732]

I love the fact of you keep trying to reach the complacent. Because they will become the ones living within regret. And we know what that entails...

[@samstevens7888]

@@cat58732 Within months of the worse of covid people had "forgotten" what most had gone through. They were so into getting back to normal they didn't learn anything. Some of us just sat back shaking our heads, some of us got the pleasure of saying told ya so ( I did take great enjoyment lol) I do still try and educate a few people most I've just given up on. The ones that say I'm coming to you, I laugh at and tell them to try coming to my house.

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@cat58732 No they won’t. They expect the gov’t to rob their neighbors for them.

[@DavidPotter-k1d]

Won't be me or you, though...😉

[@cat58732]

@@DavidPotter-k1d God Bless.

[@pwillis1]

I vacuum-sealed all my matches !!! So glad to hear someone else has the same mentality 😊

[@patriciaconrad8013]

I dippe😊 all mine in waxd

[@patriciatinkey2677]

This is a great idea- I live in super humid South Florida!

[@FayeClimenhaga]

I dipped mine in nail polish to waterproof then put them in empty prescription bottles.

[@jp642]

​@@patriciatinkey2677Any awesome ideas with our South Florida humidity in mind? I can use all the tips I can get!

[@theilluminati2319]

Here’s a list of items I vacuum seal: 1. **Soft Cheeses** (e.g., Brie, Camembert) - can be crushed or deformed. 2. **Raw Mushrooms** - can spoil faster due to anaerobic conditions. 3. **Garlic** - can promote the growth of dangerous bacteria like Clostridium botulinum. 4. **Fresh Bananas** - can get mushy and turn brown quickly. 5. **Carbonated Drinks** - will lose their carbonation and can cause a mess. 6. **Leafy Greens** (e.g., lettuce) - may wilt or be damaged by compression. 7. **Delicate Baked Goods** (e.g., cakes, pastries) - can be crushed. 8. **Hot Foods** - can promote bacteria growth as they cool in a vacuum-sealed environment. 9. **Items with Sharp Edges** (e.g., bones, uncooked pasta) - can puncture the vacuum bag. 10. **Freshly Cooked Rice or Pasta** - moisture can lead to spoilage. 11. **Fermenting Foods** (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi) - can release gases, which will cause the bag to expand. 12. **Soft Berries** (e.g., raspberries) - can get squashed or crushed. 13. **Whole Eggs in Shell** - risk of crushing or cracking. 14. **Fish with High Fat Content** - may not freeze well and can become rancid. 15. **Creamy Soups or Sauces** - can expand or leak during sealing.

[@stellamacdougall1013]

Last winter when the water was off for three weeks I heated a pan of water on the stove to bath with and used bottled water to wash my hair heating water also works on the grill I lived in a house with no power and no water for a whole winter I used karosine lamps to heat a room and heated everything on the grill you can do it

[@paulamcnatt6630]

The power goes out all the time where we are . We have all kinds of ways to cook and have light . I really love my wood burning stove. It keeps us warm and I can cook .

[@amitamodzelewski3425]

Tip: solar duck tape is awsome for emergency light. I use it in the basement mark pathways and power breaker box.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

WHAT ??? I’ve never heard of that, is it just glow in the dark tape ? That’s brilliant to mark things !

[@lostnspaces01]

I’ve never heard of such a thing! Goingto look for that now! Thanks!

[@Shepherdingtwogirls]

​@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123 it is double-sided foam tape used for outdoor projects. It isn’t reflective tape.

[@idonttiptoe1519]

I love this!! Thank you

[@cnicki1968]

I am on the county water system, but I know it takes electricity to pump that water and in a grid-down situation I might not have water. I have a well next to my house that hasn't been used in years, but it does have plenty of water in it. My property sits nearly right on top of a huge aquifer. We've decided to put an old fashioned hand pump on it. And I'm gonna have the water tested to make sure it's safe. If nothing else I can distill the water in my moonshine still. (The perks of living out in the country, lol)

[@denisewilson8367]

You'll probably need to shock that well. Pool shock in a bucket or gallons & gallons of bleach. Let it sit for 24 - 48 hours then get a 12 volt pump to pump out the yucky stuff. 12 volt pump 2 garden hoses will do the trick.

[@cnicki1968]

​@@denisewilson8367Thanks! I was wondering about that.

[@typeorulz]

Sounds like a great blessing 💯

[@lisalee2885]

I understand...we have county water but every time I finish a laundry soap jug or a cat litter jug...I fill it with tap water for toilets. It's good thick plastic. Those .99 gallons will Crack and leak

[@gofortharts]

Run your well water every day or it gets cloudy but will clear up quickly.

[@susanfain2684]

Having a P 38 military can opener on your key chain is a plus I have my husbands from when he was in the army and it has came in handy

[@cynthiadodge3089]

I still have my USAF ISSUED P-38!! I now have mine, my husband's, and about 6 more! Gave away several to various family & friends!

[@Sam-y5d3j]

Plus they are extremely small, so it can save your life when you would never have another style on your person.

[@dmariewalker6880]

Found mine while decluttering drawers, it was attached to the chain along with my dog tags.

[@julieryan9136]

Thank you. I just ordered something similar on amazon. What a good idea. I love helpful commenters! Prepping community 😊

[@Gigi-uy3wt]

Put Emergency Cash under the Rug!!

[@leopardwoman38]

Great idea about a fondue pot! I have had one for years. Now, it has a new use. Yeah!

[@nancywolf3786]

i plan to cook in foil pans i've stockpiled. won't want to waste water washing a fondue pot. a tea candle will work on foil pans too!

[@katharvey7324]

I have a fondue pot, but I also have a single burner butane stove and extra bottles of butane. It can be used indoors.

[@lornaevans3967]

Fondue pots work great! I have my old one from the seventies when I was doing fondue parties to impress the potential boyfriend’s! It’s functional when power is out!

[@booksfoxxy9827]

never thought about using that...got 2 on the shelf at local thrift store.

[@littlelittledeer1435]

Thank you! You're a doll. 4 years ago today I had to evacuate due to a fire. I was so glad my car happened to have a full tank of gas & now if it's at half a tank, I fill it. On my way to my friends house I passed gas stations that had what looked like hours-long lines.

[@Nwladylaura369]

😮 What state?

[@littlelittledeer1435]

@@Nwladylaura369 Oregon

[@Nwladylaura369]

@@littlelittledeer1435 Gas lines were four years ago or? I’m also in OR.

[@littlelittledeer1435]

@@Nwladylaura369 There were gas lines due to the evacuations. Looked like many people were low on gas.

[@marcellajohnson3757]

I also keep my tank above half at all times, no matter the season !

[@libbybarnett7180]

Getting ready for hurricane here in South LA. This time is so different because I have been prepping. I had all good needed, water, batteries, etc Making bread now.

[@StarAnnalisa1111]

Yes! Same here in South Mississippi. It feels good to be more prepared.

[@jessicaquiroz7178]

Where you at in South Louisiana? I live in Lafourche Parish

[@libbybarnett7180]

@@jessicaquiroz7178 Livingston Parrish

[@jessicaquiroz7178]

@@libbybarnett7180 how bad did y’all get it?

[@typeorulz]

Grew up in Jeff Davis parish, lived 30 years in Baton Rouge. Now 6 years in Oregon. Good to hear y'all are being prepared. God bless you ❤️🙏

[@robinsilver8934]

One thing I didn’t hear mentioned but you might have is the rechargeable light bulbs. We have them scattered around the house so if the power goes out, you can still easily see. We bought a couple of 4 packs on Amazon and they’re great!!

[@cynd322]

Have mine charged and hanging in case we lose power. They are so bright

[@trudyhoffmann6405]

A few years ago, I was having some major problems going on with my thumb. I went to our specialty store, they ordered a can opener that was a ratchet system. I could use without hurting the already injured thumb. It's still one of my favorite openers.

[@mother8696]

What is the name of that can opener

[@patches1483]

I bought a swing away type can opener because it's easier for someone with arthritis. It's a necessary item to open #10 cans also.

[@trudyhoffmann6405]

@@mother8696 Kuhn Rikon swiss design is what it says

[@BruceForster-k9n]

I love the little L.E.D. lights that mimic candles! They provide just enough light to see, but from the street it looks like ordinary candles, like your neighbors are using. The TACTICAL benefit here cannot be overstated! If your entire area is dark, and your home is blazing with white lights, you just made your home and family a target!

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@BruceForster-k9n like during the world wars where everyone had blackout curtains, to keep enemy planes from using your light as a target. Now they double serve by blocking cold weather as well.

[@mybackyardparrots9198]

😏Really???? Here, kitty, kitty 😈💥💥🔫🔨🪓🗡️⚔️🔫🏹🔪💥

[@julesybethmedlini]

1. Power banks 2. Back up lights, flashlights, lanterns, candles, battery operated candles, led options, 3. Solar crank radio - battery powered or hand cranked 4. Non perishable food items and 1 gallon of water per person per day. 5. Manual Can opener - preferably (5) Get good can openers 6. Don’t for get the matches for the candles 7. Solar candles are wonderful 8. Vacuum seal boxes of matches 9. first aid kit - the more items - the better (well stocked) 10. Alternative cooking methods- fondue pots! Tea lights work to heat it up… 11. Camping coffee maker 12. Camp stove- 13. Fuel and understanding of how to use that safely- because things cannot always be cooked inside- 14. Warm blankets, sleeping bags 15. Extra batteries 16. Coolers and ice packs - 17. Personal hygiene - wet wipes, soap, shampoo, dry shampoo, deodorant, 18. Emergency cash 19. Multi- tools, Swiss knives 20. Important documents- 21. Bug out bag, binder, 72 hour bag…

[@ry2yb]

Thanks!

[@nopenever6214]

Thank you so much!!!🤗

[@donnakeehn4710]

I haven't had an electric can opener in probably 10 years. My hand held one cuts the top off cleanly. So much easier on my wrist. I have tea lights,lessons lamps,camping lights, and others. Have a battery fan for camping but has come in handy when power has gone out in the summer. Think outside of the box is key.

[@GGsGarden]

Thx for mentioning battery fan. I have one by Ryobi and one that charges by USB. I haven’t used them in a few years and had forgotten about them.

[@michelemcdowell9221]

Same

[@DavidPotter-k1d]

@@donnakeehn4710 I hadn't had one for longer than that, but since I have power, I bought one this last spring.

[@sandi4215]

I’m so grateful to have my own power. In Australia we often get heatwaves that take out the power, and I just don’t cope with high temperatures.

[@Peter-od7op]

They took your guns what bunch of wimps

[@jedimastermat5195]

@@Peter-od7op What a load of crap. I have a firearms licence and guns in a safe. We just don't have school kid killers as we prefer our kids to grow up

[@Peter-od7op]

@ can most people own guns in your country. I think not

[@kathysiebert6654]

Not everyone can afford it, but those whole house Generac generators that run on natural gas are life savers for seniors. If power/grid goes down these babies come on within a few to 11 mins. They'll run everything in your home. I think... they can be bought & installed on pmts. They are miracles & needed for people on oxygen machines etc! Just a thought, they'll come out and estimate what size you need for your personal homes needs.❤

[@aprilrain2011]

3 mints here

[@Valleybeautiful]

Even better, a tri- fuel generator. they do the same thing only they also can run on gasoline and propane if there's an issue with the natural gas. the prices are really coming down and getting reasonable too. I think the tri-fuels are actually a much better bang for your buck then the generacs.

[@Sam-y5d3j]

@@kathysiebert6654 these would not be the advantage you think they would in a longterm grid down. You need a renewable source outside commercial resupply. All sources of gas will be shutdown due to potential leaks. Running a generator outside will announce itself through noise to every thief in the neighborhood, and they will be in the neighborhood. In our area the thieves travel around the neighborhoods listening for them, record where they are, and then come back and steal them. Our friends have had theirs stolen in this fashion. While a solar generator is completely silent and safely inside your house. You can even buy generators that run off deep cell 12v batteries. Thus for recharging you can put a solar panel directly to the battery, and not risk the generator. Just cycle them inside and out once charged.

[@mj-ls7qr8xp3n]

​@@Valleybeautifulhow do you know what size?

[@Valleybeautiful]

@@mj-ls7qr8xp3n If you want to be precise, you'd have to look at your energy bills probably over the course of a year and determine how many watts you use and buy one that produces considerably more because running them at full capacity isn't advisable. We had a budget, so we didn't do this. we bought the one we could reasonably afford knowing that we probably won't be able to run absolutely everything as normal. so if we need to do laundry, we'd probably go slower and not run the washer and dryer together at the same time and probably would still use one of our small solar generators to run small appliances to take the load off the tri-fuel. you just have to research and then make choices that make sense for you.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

I saw a brilliant idea the other day and I thought duh, why hasn’t this been shared more ! Anyhow, this guy took an old range (stove/oven), could be gas or electric because you’re just using the body. He made a pizza/bread oven by just building a fire in the oven on the bottom and put what he was baking on the racks, I didn’t research it enough but I’m sure he had some sort of chimney out the back. I live in northern Minnesota so a solar oven isn’t going to work in winter, this is insulated, has the racks….just brilliant !!! On the top where the burners are, remove any guts or wires and possibly the piece that holds the drip pans so it’s just a big flat area, then he built a fire or used charcoal so he made it into a grill, just put a grate over it or use the cast iron grate from a gas stove. He has a fire powered oven and a grill all out of an old range !!! I’m going to make one and put bricks and tin around it so it doesn’t look trashy !

[@TruthAndLight4995]

The last time we were without power it was due to a truck hitting a utility pole. We were without power for 3 days. Make sure you contact your power dept and tell them not to charge you for days you lived off-grid.

[@richellepeace4457]

I keep a shop light with led daylight bulbs, they do not cost that much to run in case of overcast. Place all your solar devices to charge under the light for a few hours. Its all about the type of bulb. I test charged 9 exterior lights in matter of hours that were also growing my plants. My logic is have enough battery to keep that one light in service to charge other devices when necessary. I use a strong paper clip to keep money in my car hidden since when I'm out and about is when I will most likely need it. Comes in handy for surprise garage sales too! Fondue pots hide everywhere and that is a great idea!

[@debbielofton8358]

Francine is coming downtown my house...it's nice to know I'm ready...hate hurricanes...

[@laurajohnson8898]

We're a neighboring state in georgia, stay safe! We're thinking about you all in Louisiana and Mississippi and parts of Texas❤

[@jessicaquiroz7178]

You in Terrebonne or Lafourche?

[@patriciatinkey2677]

Hope you got through ok! I live in South Florida. Sympathy!

[@jimmyhoffa2458]

Wood stoves are very handy.

[@jcrsh1638]

I look forward to winter, where we heat & cook w/ our wood stove exclusively! Lanterns and oil will provide great light & heat as well, in addition to battery light to see where the lanterns & oil are! Great points throughout this video-TY Leisa for bringing this to the forefront!

[@joanies6778]

I love my usb rechargeable lights for room lighting and headlamp. My little power bank is a lifesaver to recharge my cell phone, lights, and it has clamps to recharge my car battery. My battery died 2 days after it arrived, and it charged in 15 seconds! Love it. Best $60 ever spent.

[@kendraleedy9428]

OIL LAMPS! Im in thunderstorm and tornado alley. We always have oil lamps ready to go. We just bought 3 more to get cleaned up, new wicks, and filles with lamp oil

[@lisapop5219]

Had to pause and change the batteries in my bedside flashlight. Thanks for reminding me

[@SuttonsDaze]

Glad to help

[@Sensha4041]

Power went out a couple of days ago . I have battery operated lights in the bathroom,kitchen and hallway.Each bedroom has a Duracell lantern, strategically laced of course!😄

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

Yesterday I made my 3rd fleece slip. I made 2 last winter and they kept me warm under my dresses. I will sew another this week, this one a full slip. Just added an emergency radio. Thanks for the reminder.

[@PatHobbs17]

​@@isatq2133Pendleton clothing had wool clothing.

[@annaryan4803]

When my electricity has been off, for a few days. When it comes back on, I check my butter, in the refrigerator. If it is still firm, that means my refrigerator stayed cold enough to keep it firm, therefore the rest of the food is safe to eat. My butter has stayed firm up to 4 days, without electricity. And so far, I haven't gotten sick from eating the food in the fridge, when my butter stayed firm.

[@AppalachianLiving765]

Wonderful ideas! We recently lost power twice and it was for over 12 hours each day. We've been several days with no power before, on top of a mountain in winter. My husband was able to purchase a used army generator, he got a great deal for it. Thank you for sharing!

[@MaryWehmeier]

Government auctions are great.

[@AppalachianLiving765]

@@MaryWehmeier yes, they are!

[@janetnga3234]

Have a good thermos. I like hot tea, so after i use the fuel to heat water up, i do extra and keep in a good thermos, will stay hot a long time. Can use to wash up also.

[@lostnspaces01]

Great idea!

[@nancismith5231]

My Mr. Coffee insulated carafe keeps water warm for quite a few hours.

[@PossumandPearl]

I keep those push lights in the shower area. One is just outside the shower door. Another is in the toilet area. My bathroom doesn’t have a window so it’s dark in there always. They are small and not ugly so there is no excuse to not have them. Actually they are all over my house. I have stuck them under the desk, behind a plant on the fridge…

[@jessicaquiroz7178]

Thank you I need to get those. It is not fun taking a shower in the dark. We have one of motion detector light in bathroom but if you aren’t moving around the damn thing goes out to fast

[@Sam-y5d3j]

There are strip lights you can buy that turn on and off as you come and go. We have them around our beds, so we can come and go at night and not awake anyone, down dark hallways, and above bathroom doors and exterior doors. They attach with a built-in magnet or supplied adhesive. They are rechargeable and last about 6 months before you need to charge them again. During a grid down you can carry them with you like a candle.

[@Tibordog]

​@Sam-y5d3j do they get hot? I bought 2 but was concerned about using them

[@SindyLowery]

You are downright freaking awesome, I have not seen anybody as down to earth and it's practical and thoughtful and you're just amazing me right now there's no BS it's all about this is what it is this is what you need and I appreciate that

[@cynthiadodge3089]

The last 2 years we have given out hand-crank emergency radios/cell phone charger/flashlite combos. So worth their weight in gold! Here in Phoenix, AZ, we tend to lose power during our summer monsoons. We bought solar "tent" fans from Temu for dirt cheap! They worked so much better than I ever could have imagined!

[@LaurieR2255]

I had given my fondue pot away two years ago. I replaced it at a thrift store, yesterday, for $5 (since I have been binge watching you for the last 48 hours! ) I have a french press for coffee! And the classic camp coffee pot, but I don't know how to make coffee in it! I ordered Blue Apron a few times and saved all the cold packs, reflective bubble wrap and boxes. In addition to my 2 coolers. Not sure why, but hey, they aren't eating anything! LOL! Thanks for all you are doing to help us get our ducks in a row! I also found the book The Fourth Turning is Here, yesterday, at the library!

[@JeepGirl941]

Just made it through Helene and ground zero for Milton. I've got those camp lamps hanging or sitting next to all my sinks and I wear a headlamp to get around in the dark. I also found something AWESOME: GE LED A21 Battery-backup lightbulbs- WOW! I also have an EcoFlow Delta 2 solar power generator, a couple 10 inch O2Cool battery fans, Coleman camp stove with propane and several battery packs.

[@darlenegamble3409]

I used a NOCO to start my car several times till I could get to an auto store and get my car battery replaced! Some places say they have seen people duct tape them in place to get to a repair station. Absolutely keep one in your vehicle. You can use it to charge other things, but I swear by them for starting a weak car battery!

[@CarolBergquist]

I was sitting on the porch enjoying the evening and the sounds of the season and a feeling that this might be the calm before the storm entered my mind. I have a number of things checked off my list but something always gets added. Time is of the essence and we all need to get everything done.

[@lavonnajones4543]

You are an Earth angel for us all and you are appreciated, Leisa. My husband is building our first muscle shelves back in that 3rd bedroom. Did I tell you those wire racks suck?! Jars and cans fall over....

[@SuttonsDaze]

I hear you!

[@kalburgy2114]

Place cardboard, like from a cereal box, on the wire racks and place your jars and cans on that.

[@denisewilson8367]

​@@kalburgy2114 it helps to keep them balanced.

[@jersey-gd7dj]

I save all of our big box store supply packaging and re purpose it for wire rack shelf lining among other things. The printed side secured to shelf legs also makes for cheap improvised "sliders" for moving things on concrete floors,, use other side for carpet so it doesn't transfer ink. Cheers

[@JanetsAppalachianKitchen]

I worked so hard last year to set up an outdoor mini kitchen as we get a lot of snow and wanted to prepare for power outages. I have a camp chef 2 burner stove, blackstone, grill, propane stove and a small solar Coleman oven. We also have a camper so that helps too.

[@lostnspaces01]

We also use the small propane bottles for grill and backstone so I got an adapter to fill the small bottles from our large propane tank. Those small bottles are expensive and now we can refill the small bottles easily ourselves!

[@nickylast7405]

Miss Leisa, keep doing these videos. I listen to them daily as I organize my house. Little reminders of what I should be doing. Always a little aha moment of oh yeah I need to do that. Thank you!

[@corrinaevans7622]

It's amazing that we think we're ready, but no. This is one of the reasons I love this channel. All the reality based information is really important.

[@judymadge7347]

When I had to empty my recently-passed parents home, I made sure to grab Mums Fondue set...my siblings thought I was crazy! Mum even had a cook book for it! Bless!

[@goatkidmom]

Glow sticks are great to give to the kids to keep them calm and happy, and are safe (even the earrings ones from Dollar Tree) to throw on the floor next to the toe-stub piece of furniture. Useful as night lights. Won't start a fire and easy to buy a few at a time.

[@jferris6184]

you can also drop them in a gallon jug or jar of water to create more light

[@michellewoodall9293]

You can also dip the tip of the matches in wax so that in the event they get wet they are still usable. I love your video by the way.

[@palominogirl2732]

We have all the lights you mentioned, LOL, yeah, head lamps, hats with lights, all that. As the time of sunset changes through the year, I need to shut the chicken door at different times, and my light up hat is very handy. We also have six 'wood shed' lanterns from Lehman's, with gallons of lamp oil, plus some other lanterns picked up at yard sales. But when you mentioned candles, it reminded me of all my fairy lights. I've strung them up all over, it's a nice ambience watching tv, or finding your way around in the dark. If the lights go out, I can plug them in one of the Jackeries, yes, there are some in the kitchen to cook with if I had to, and they don't use much power at all. Solar lanterns are very handy, too, those are all over, some kept ready to go on window sills, some in boxes that are brand new. Seeing is a wonderful thing, especially if you want to read a book because there is no television. :) Edited to add: While looking for a fondue pot, I got a chafing dish for $4 at the thrift store. Seriously, this thing is brand new. Like someone threw away a wedding gift, LOL. Anyway, we cook with propane anyway and have a ton of ways to cook, including an extra oven outside for canning, but I couldn't resist the chafing dish. Yes, I have sterno. COFFEE: I haven't used a drip coffee maker, or an electric can opener in years, decades?. I put 2-1/2 cups water in the camping coffee pot before bed, In the morning, I add 2 heaping scoops of Folgers upon stumbling into the kitchen.....boil 4-5 minutes, pour through a fine strainer - heaven.

[@katelarouche2835]

Prepping for winter in Maine. I use a candle sunk in a can of crisco for heating small areas. You have common sense advice: subscribed, thank you.

[@Bekah927]

I wish I had seen this video before Helene came through Asheville. I’m making notes for the future!!!! You have a new subscriber. God bless ❤

[@SuttonsDaze]

I hope you're safe and were not impacted too terribly.

[@patriot1902]

I live in So. Cal. And we went through a couple of weeks of brutal temps. My old AC kept up pretty good. My neighbors across the street lost 1 leg of their transformer that serves 4 houses so their AC went down and half the house outlets including the fridge. Not preppers by any means so called me for help. Had a whole house of church friend's over. Brought my cords over and got their fridge back on and lights in the rooms. No help with the AC so i gave them my fans. I told them im that weird prepper neighbor you want and they all agreed. Hopefully lit a fire under their butts to BE READY AND NOT TRY TO GET READY! Look on Market place or second hand for coleman stoves. Next to nothing to pick up. Rechargeable battery lanters are good. Stack the water to the roof. Its not hard at all. Thanks Liza for all the advice. I go with the 3 little pigs mentality. Be rhe pig that built your house of bricks and not straw.

[@kandi8640]

We went to the store today and I told my son to pick up another gallon of distilled water. He knows I use it for my cpap machine. He said mom you shouldn’t need it yet. Isaid never mind why I want it. I will use it for my machine but if we lose water then we will be grateful to have it. So I get ectra water each time I go to the store.

[@CassieDavis613]

The plastic bottles of distilled water I buy leak after a couple of months. Have you had that problem?

[@GGsGarden]

I keep a toboggan cap with built in light beside the bed as a first line of defense.

[@kathlynebeus6551]

Think about it cash. Needs to be in small bills and coin. Who will have change? Love your ideas and helps

[@dawncierelli1510]

Lisa! You are so smart exclamation point by sealing the matches... Great idea thank you!!

[@MonkeyShinesWorldwide-24-7]

THANK YOU DEAR FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!! It’s such a blessing to find you! My girlfriend and I really appreciate your great content with such helpful & realistic suggestions!! ❤🙏🏼

[@charlotteamodeo3031]

I love lanterns and have collected a few. They are very practical in my opinion. Tons of candles, tea lights, etc.

[@derr2438]

Same here on the multiple flashlights. I keep one hanging on each electrical floor lamp that we use. Also, on each end of the bed's backboard. Also, one in each of the windowless bathrooms. Also ...lol...those solar powered flashlights in the windows in each room. Yeah crazy but darkness has always terrified me as I have been going blind over the long term.

[@dancegirlhaver3182]

I didn't realize to charge my Noko! Thank you! We're going to lose power with the hurricane in Florida here. So this will help

[@tammihughes6229]

I ordered the battery candles. Have not used them yet. Hand crank radio. 8 Solar light bulbs I keep in the window. Just got the cell phone bank. I need a couple more. Keep collecting ❤

[@debbiesykes5491]

Thanks Lisa for all that you do to try and prepare those that need a little nudge in the right direction!!

[@marcellajohnson3757]

I have all you recommend. My biggest worry was water long term,though I have water stored. I invested in a Simple Pump for my well. Yes, I am lucky to have a well. Now I have clean water no matter how long the electric is out. And water for my neighbors !

[@tiffanywhipple3364]

Where did u get a simple pump at??

[@PatHobbs17]

Which store has simple pump

[@maillemacanaugh1841]

Yes to the fondu pot! The most underrated prep item! I found a vintage one on Mercari

[@Gina-de8gb]

I am stacking ! Lol , THANK YOU LEISA

[@GeriRogers]

Really love your videos. Like listening to you. You're great and just down to earth. Full of good information. Thank you! ❤

[@SuttonsDaze]

Thank you so much!

[@AmericanNazarite]

I'm sitting in a power outage right now. Got my solar fan, solar light bulbs and solar power banks. We're on the very far western side of the hurricane and still lost power.

[@patches1483]

I'm glad for you that you were prepared. 😊

[@lordsgirl111]

Where did u get solar fans?

[@lordsgirl111]

And light bulbs?

[@AmericanNazarite]

@lordsgirl111 Amazon has several to choose from. The one we got is pretty good. It lasts a good while and is powerful enough.

[@AmericanNazarite]

@@lordsgirl111 Amazon for both.

[@samstevens7888]

Instead of a fondue pot i have a chafing dish that i use the chafing gel with. Fondue pots dont normally come with a lid ( here in the UK anyway). So i went for the chafing dish because of the lid. Also because the chafing gel isn't toxic you can use it to warm you in a small space if your carful. I keep 2 chafing gel cans in my car in the winter as a just incase.

[@denisewilson8367]

If you can still get tin coffee cans it's best to use them inside the coffee can for safety.

[@samstevens7888]

@@denisewilson8367 I only have them in my car in winter, but my winter car kit also has a stainless steel bowl so I would put it in that for safety. Been doing this fir a few years now, never had to use it, but you just never know so I keep them in there.

[@sharondesfor5151]

I bought one of those little immersion heaters for my car. It's powered by the cigarette light\power point. I always carry a metal water bottle, and have a couple of half gallon bottles of water in the trunk. If I get stuck in winter for a few hours, sipping hot water will help regulate my body temp. Uh-oh, maybe I need a pack of Depends in there now, to deal with the consequences of drinking all that water. 😂

[@DiettaBarker]

We have solar power bricks; solar power stations and each member of my family has a heated vest to use for emergencies.

[@angelaslatzer9263]

I've seen some heated shawls and blankets that are rechargable... thinking of getting them for gifts for my kiddos

[@DiettaBarker]

@@angelaslatzer9263 I think I will look into heated blankets too.

[@bonnieganschow9137]

Leisa, you never disappoint. Outstanding information. I sure hope people are ready, or know what they need to do and are getting ready. 🙏🙌❤️

[@marthahansen6123]

Amazon has a great selection of power inverters that can be used with batteries from power tools. Ryobi, Makita, Milwaukee, Dewalt. Lots of variations and prices starting at $40. Just make sure you check your battery voltage and brand so you get the right one. Great video and reminder to check on your power options! Love the battery powered candle idea. ❤ fabulous and easy. Thank you!!!!❤

[@katehouser3683]

Thanks Leisa, I see a few things I still need to get. I also need to get the solar generators out and make sure they are charged.

[@momskelton5794]

We have first aid kits in home, truck and backpack, plus first aid items we store in bathroom!!

[@brashachilles9725]

Anker and Zendure powerbanks have served me well. Planning on making a big one. KZbin has loads of videos on them and you can use a lithium phosphate battery (LiP04) which will last much longer than a normal lithium powerbank. Next project.

[@angelikac6767]

I think Anker is underrated brand ,won't brake the bank and fairly dependable

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

Headlamps are a must !!!

[@belovedbride9651]

We like to use cast iron dutch ovens with charcoal on the bottom and on the lid. Works great and can be done in the fireplace if its cold outside. You can bake in them. You make soup, chili etc

[@nicB7777]

Always practice cooking on all of your back up methods! And work on making and eating the 'emergency food' i make us a different rice and beans meal one a month to try adding varieties

[@phoenixgirl9467]

These are some great ideas! Thanks for posting this!! Also there's a lot of other really great ideas in this comment section!! Thanks to everyone who contributed!!

[@JP-nq7wf]

Local online auctions are great for stocking up on oil lamps, coleman laterns and Aladdin lamps.

[@THRIFTYSINGLEMAMA]

We are out of power. I'm an idiot and didn't prep. I did some prepping but not enough. I'm a single mama and I'm scared. God bless all the people in Helene. I will figure it out and prepare immediately.

[@TW-gb6mh]

We don't normally lose power for very long, but Helene was a bad one. The yellow glow sticks from the dollar tree are the brightest. If you take 2 yellow glow sticks and place them in your bathrooms so they are reflected in the mirror - you may need to scotch tape them to the mirror if you don't have a large mirror - that will be brighter than a night light. Also, we were the coffee fairies for a few neighbors. Using a camping tea kettle, we heated water to boiling outside on the camp stove, then poured that water over the coffee grounds in our electric coffee pot. One other thought - if you use fresh ground coffee, you need to have a lot of ground coffee on hand. We had not considered we would be making coffee for our neighbors, and we barely made it through before the power came back on. I was wondering how a meat mallet would work on coffee beans...😅

[@ELOAAMinistries]

I love your braids "Sista Girl!" Is that shelf behind you like a grocery store shelf? "Nice!" Blessings and Grace!

[@Simplyfarmhouse7]

Everyone NEEDS hand held Rapid radios that have unlimited range, if the shft hits cell phone wont work. Wood stove are a blessings, I was able to cook on top of it. A Firepit with a cooking rack is a great way to be able to cook without electricity , don't forget to stock up on firewood. Solar walkway lights that are a 2 or 5 power is a great way to light up a room if the lights go out. I love this list and there are many areas I got to do better in right away! Thanks!

[@sharondesfor5151]

Remember your oven and\or grill racks. You don't need a dedicated campfire grate for cooking unless you do it constantly for fun. Save money and storage space.

[@comicalhomestead]

I remember a lady commented that she found a fondue 🫕 at Goodwill about a week ago and her excitement telling you. I can now join that club lol. I found mine yesterday also at Goodwill.

[@SuttonsDaze]

That is awesome!

[@bubbles6124]

I'm I'm California. The fires are burning like crazy. Fortunately I'm on the opposite side, but the smoke is blowing my way. The sky is orange and ash dropping. Air quality is just aweful.

[@angelikac6767]

Sorry ,I know how that feels. We get it from Canada a lot

[@virginiabirkett4980]

Stay Safe!!!❤

[@mother8696]

We had it last year in WV.. sending prayers

[@bubbles6124]

Thank you all for your kindness and prayers.

[@Carol-ws2ur]

I’m so sorry you are going through these fires. I can’t imagine what it’s like. Prayers your way❤

[@1erinjames]

Multi tool suggestion… only buy leatherman or sog or true equivalent. Last thing you need is a cheap one that bends when you are in a situation!!

[@denisewilson8367]

Right, true Swiss army knife or a Leatherman. The only 2 I trust.

[@TamiSark-gz9te]

Wool blankets are best! Even work when wet unlike other fabrics/materials.

[@KatheeRN]

Yup... a metal percolator to use on my propane stove. CHECKED!!! I'm as prepped as well as I can be, but wish I could afford more canned foods. I do pick up a few every week though. That's how I started with prepping 4 years ago. Living on SS is now difficult to do, but I manage quite well. I already have Xmas gifts for my 3 Lil granddaughters. Glad that's out of the way!!!