Top 5 Preps To Survive a Deep Freeze Texas 2021

Top 5 Preps to Survive a Deep Freeze 2021 USA. Would You be Ready?

Much of the USA was plunged into a deep freeze a few weeks ago. Even parts of the deep south felt this one. In Texas, the sub-zero temps and winter storm extended all the way to its southern borders! It left millions without power for days on end and made travel next to impossible. At least 5 people died, several froze to death inside their homes.

Now there are reports of food and water shortages at grocery stores were due to the disruption in the supply chain. https://www.texastribune.org/2021/02/17/texas-food-supply-power-outage/

This is why we prepare. Weather is one of those forces of nature that is so difficult to predict. I live in Georgia, so we were lucky with this one. The arctic train of freeze stopped right at our doorstep. 

 Much of the state of Texas experienced rolling blackouts, so hours at a time with no power and freezing temperatures day and night. People have reported taking refuge in their automobiles just so they can have some heat.

Are you ready for something like this to hit your area? 

 And are you ready for the next one?

So here are 5 things I believe you need to have at your home to be prepared for and event like this. In my humble opinion, of course.

1. Generator — If you can afford a generator, this is the best prep you can have to insure that at least part of your home has power. These range in price from $500 and up. To get one that will provide power to a typical home, you will be looking at $800–1000 minimum. Generators are typically gasoline powered but are also available in a solar powered version. A great way to provide heat, keep cell phones charged and keep the fridge, freezer operating.

TIP: In a grid down situation where your entire neighborhood is without power, I would highly recommend you use a generator to only provide power to heat and basics like fridge and freezer. Lighting up your home could alert others around you and could result in some surprise, umm “guests”.

2. Water and Food — As we are seeing in Texas, an event like this could result in disruptions in the food supply chain. Have an extra stash of water (3 gallons per person, per day) and food. I would aim for at least a 2 week supply of both. If you have that, start working towards a 4 week supply and so on. OK, with food, make sure it is things you will actually eat and like! Mix in plenty of non perishable items like pasta, rice, beans, snacks and canned goods. Don’t forget peanut butter and honey!

3. Flashlights/candles — I can’t stress enough the importance of a good flashlight. It does not have to be the most expensive either. I prefer Maglite. They are sturdy and reliable. I keep two in our home and one in each car. Get extra batteries. It can also double as a weapon in a self defense situation! OK, also stock up on candles and matches or lighters. Even if you have a generator, you need these things in case you run out of fuel for the generator or just to conserve that fuel.

4. Cash — Cash in king! So with disruptions in services like power and water, the financial institutions could be off line and your ATM machines may be out of cash. You local stores may only take cash at least for the time being. So please have some on hand. I always keep a $20 on me at all times when I go out and I hide a $10 bill in the car. You just never know.

5. Shovel — You may have to may have to dig your way out of the house or clear a path in your driveway.

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OK some other often overlooked items to think about. Wood for the fireplace (if you have one), fuel for the generator, extra fuel for your automobiles in case you need to rely on them for heat or to charge your cell phones. I always keep and extra container of propane for the gas grill. It can be used to heat food in case you lose power in your home. I always keep 2 full fuel cans stored as well.

If you’re still reading this, THANK YOU! I hope this was helpful. Please let me know if it was. I welcome your comments and questions.