8 Most Important Items to Have With You In Winter

Winter weather can be harsh and unpredictable, and having the right gear can help protect you from the elements. Proper gear, such as warm clothing, waterproof boots, and gloves, can help prevent frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related injuries.

The right gear can also help you stay comfortable in cold weather conditions. Proper insulation, moisture-wicking materials, and breathable fabrics can help regulate your body temperature and keep you dry, reducing the risk of discomfort or chafing.

With the right gear, you can move around more easily and perform tasks more efficiently. For example, if you have the right winter boots, you'll be able to walk on snow and ice more easily, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Proper winter gear can also help you maintain your mobility, allowing you to continue to enjoy outdoor activities even in cold weather.

Cold weather can exacerbate certain health conditions, such as asthma or arthritis. The right gear can help minimize the impact of cold weather on your health, allowing you to continue to exercise and participate in activities that are important to you.

When outside in winter, it's important to have the following gear to keep you warm, safe, and comfortable:

 

1. Insulated jacket or coat: A warm, insulated jacket or coat is essential for staying warm in cold weather. Look for a jacket with synthetic or down insulation and a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.
2. Hat: A warm hat can help prevent heat loss from your head, keeping you warm and comfortable. Look for a hat made from a warm, breathable fabric such as wool or fleece.
3. Gloves or mittens: Gloves or mittens can help protect your hands from the cold and prevent frostbite. Look for gloves or mittens with insulation and a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.
4. Scarf or neck gaiter: A scarf or neck gaiter can help protect your neck and face from the cold and wind. Look for a scarf or neck gaiter made from a warm, breathable fabric.
5. Waterproof or water-resistant boots: A good pair of boots is essential for keeping your feet warm and dry in cold weather. Look for boots with insulation and a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.
6. Warm socks: A pair of warm socks can help keep your feet warm and dry. Look for socks made from a warm, moisture-wicking fabric such as wool or synthetic materials.
7. Base layers: Base layers are essential for regulating your body temperature and keeping you comfortable in cold weather. Look for base layers made from a moisture-wicking fabric that will keep you dry and warm.
8. Snow pants or insulated pants: Snow pants or insulated pants can help keep your legs warm and dry in cold weather. Look for pants with insulation and a waterproof or water-resistant outer layer.

 

By having these essential winter gear items, you'll be prepared to spend time outside in cold weather and stay safe, warm, and comfortable. You'll be prepared for an emergency situation during the winter months without worrying about losing a toe to frostbite, catching pneumonia or even dying due to exposure to severe cold conditions.

 

Best Ways To Survive
A Winter Power Outage

This has been a pretty crazy winter and it's not over yet. I've seen more snow and freezing temperatures this year than I personally have seen in at least 16 years. Unfortunately, I've also seen or heard about more power outages as well. With those, there are deaths nearly every time due to lack of emergency preparedness. 

Winter power outages can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, especially when temperatures drop to freezing or below. Without electricity, heating systems, and other essential appliances, it can be challenging to stay warm and safe.

However, there are several ways to stay warm during a winter power outage. By taking some simple measures and being prepared, you can keep yourself and your loved ones warm and comfortable until power is restored. In some cases, this could mean the difference in life or death.

In this article, we will discuss five effective ways to stay warm during a winter power outage, so you can be prepared and stay safe in case of an emergency.

1. Layer up: Wear several layers of warm clothing, including thermal underwear, socks, sweaters, gloves, and a winter jacket. Cover your head with a hat, wear gloves, and wrap a scarf around your neck to prevent heat loss.

2. Use blankets and sleeping bags: Cover yourself with blankets or a sleeping bag to keep warm. Place blankets over windows and doorways to prevent drafts and keep heat inside the room. You can also use heated mats, as long as you've already charged them up or have a generator that you can plug them into. 

3. Use a fireplace or wood stove: If you have a fireplace or wood stove, use it to keep your home warm. Burning wood generates heat that can keep you warm, and it can also provide light.

4. Use alternative heating sources: If you don't have a fireplace or wood stove, consider using alternative heating sources such as propane or kerosene heaters. However, use these heaters with caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

5. Stay active: Physical activity can help you generate body heat and stay warm. Do simple exercises such as jumping jacks or push-ups, or walk around the house to get your blood flowing. You can also engage in other activities such as reading or playing board games to take your mind off the cold.

6. Camp out Indoors: If you can’t get your hands on a generator or heater, consider camping out inside your home. A tent and sleeping bags can help keep you and any family members warm and safe, particularly through the night when temperatures tend to drop.
   
   

Hypothermia can be a concern at any age, but particularly for young children and older adults, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Dress in loose layers, as opposed to one heavy layer, and make sure to stay dry. Even sweat from exercising can raise your risk of developing hypothermia.

In conclusion, staying warm during a winter power outage is crucial for your health and safety. By following the tips we have outlined in this article, you can keep yourself and your family warm and comfortable until the power is restored.

Additionally, make sure you have emergency supplies on hand, such as extra blankets, batteries, flashlights, and a first-aid kit. Being prepared and taking necessary precautions can help you weather the storm and stay safe during a winter power outage.

Here are a few other ways to stay warm during a power outage, especially when the temperature drops to 19 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Here are some additional tips:

1. Stay in one room: Try to stay in one room, preferably a small one, to conserve heat. Close the doors and use draft stoppers to prevent cold air from entering the room. You can also use a tent to keep that air warm. 

2. Use hot water bottles: Fill hot water bottles with warm water from your hot water heater and place them in your bed or on your lap to stay warm. You can also wrap them in a towel or a blanket to prevent burns.

3. Use hand warmers: Hand warmers are small packets that generate heat when activated. You can place them in your pockets, gloves, or socks to keep your hands and feet warm.

4. Use a generator: If you have a generator, use it to power essential appliances such as heaters, electric blankets, and hot water heaters. However, use it with caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Use a car battery: You can also use a car battery to power small appliances, such as a portable heater or a fan. However, be sure to use the correct adapter and follow safety precautions.

Remember, it's important to stay warm and safe during a power outage, especially in very low temperatures. Keep yourself well-hydrated, eat warm and hearty meals, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration and make you feel colder. Stay alert for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, and slurred speech, and seek medical attention if necessary.

The number of people who die of exposure during a power outage can vary depending on several factors, such as the temperature, the duration of the outage, and the availability of emergency services. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), from 1999 to 2011, there were 16,911 deaths in the United States attributed to exposure to excessive natural cold. However, this number includes all deaths related to exposure to cold, not just those related to power outages.

It's important to remember that exposure to extreme cold can be a serious and potentially life-threatening situation, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, infants, and people with chronic medical conditions. If you are experiencing a power outage during cold weather, take steps to stay warm and safe, such as those outlined in our previous answer. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

Experiencing anxiety about freezing to death during a power outage is a common fear, especially if you live in an area with cold temperatures. Here are some tips that may help relieve your anxiety:

1. Be prepared: Having a plan in place for a power outage can help alleviate anxiety. Make sure you have emergency supplies on hand, such as blankets, extra clothing, flashlights, and batteries. Having these supplies can help you feel more in control and prepared for a power outage.

2. Stay informed: Stay informed about the weather and power outage updates from local authorities. Knowing what to expect can help you plan and reduce anxiety.

3. Practice relaxation techniques: When you start to feel anxious, take deep breaths, and practice relaxation techniques and natural healing such as meditation or yoga. These techniques can help reduce stress and promote feelings of calm.

4. Talk to someone: Talking to someone about your anxiety can be helpful. Consider speaking with a trusted friend or family member, a therapist, or a counselor. They can provide you with support and help you develop coping strategies.

5. Focus on the present: Try not to focus too much on the worst-case scenario. Instead, focus on the present moment and the things you can control. This can help you feel more grounded and less anxious.

Remember, feeling anxious about a power outage is understandable, but taking steps to prepare and stay informed can help alleviate anxiety.

NOTE:  

• Never use a generator indoors or within 20 feet of your house.
• Have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor.
• If you use your car to stay warm or charge devices, make sure it’s outside the garage.
• Never use a device (such as an oven) to produce heat unless that’s its intended purpose.
• Indoor portable heaters should have an automatic shutoff switch in case they tip over.

 

Ways to Practice Much Needed Self-Care

When being prepared for an emergency it is vital that you include preparing your mental self as well. There are ways to practice self-care, so you are fully prepared for any survival situation.

Putting focus on our own needs doesn't always come easily, which can make the practice of self-care feel more elusive than it really should be.

Identify Judgment

What’s your relationship with your body? Do you judge yourself for being too fat, too thin, too old? Do you judge your sexual orientation, or your race, or your passions and abilities? Do you judge your emotions, tears, kindness, or need to do less or spend time alone?

All forms of judgment prove that the person who is judging has a sense of inadequacy or unworthiness, which makes it impossible to truly love yourself or others. Taking a stand for your needs is vital, especially when life or other people get in the way.

Ask yourself where this judgment comes from? What were you told when you was young, and who said them to you? What behaviors and beliefs have they led to? And are these behaviors helping you feel joyful and alive and allowing you to do your best in all things?

Set Structures

Once you’re aware of how you’re harming yourself, it’s time to put healthy self-care practices in place. Now is the time to remove those beliefs that cause you to be judgmental, then exchange them for new healthy beliefs that help you become your best self.

Removing those sources might mean letting go of toxic people in your life, reduce watching the news or social media stories that are negative or hurtful to yourself or others. It also means that you have a zero tolerance with that voice in your head which spews negative judgmental stories. 

Paying attention to those positive things that help you and encourage you through out your day. Some of these might be the number of hours of sleep you get, how much exercise you get or the quality of food you eat. It could also be spending time with friends and loved ones, doing something creative, or taking regular breaks throughout your day. If it gives you a sense of peace and joy then you're on the right path.

Staying on Top

We might have full intentions of staying on this path to thriving, but life will always present new challenges that will throw us off. Some days it may not be possible to follow your strategy of peace and happiness, so how do we continue this plan of action, so we can face the struggles that life present? One of my favorite strategies is the "IF - THEN" plan. This highly effective practice will keep you on track. 

An example is: You are always saying yes to everyone that asks for financial help, even though you can't really afford to and often it hurts your bank account and sometimes your credit score. With the "IF-THEN" plan you can have a response planned out, so you don't cause emotional and financial chaos the next time this happens.  Such as, If they has for help, Then I will smile and let them know I can't assist them at this time. Having this practiced will help you to reduce the thoughts of, "Will they hate me?", "I have to say yes" or "I can't say no". 

Of course there will be unpredictable stressors that will happen as well. To be prepared, take a moment to think about your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual energy about that situation. You'll know if it doesn't feel positive or joyful. If you don't, pay attention to your sleep, food, fun and fresh air. Do you need more sleep, healthier food, to have more fun, or indulge in some fresh air? Do you need distance from your inner chatter or critic? 

You must be committed to nurture yourself, providing the self-care that you so desperately need and your quality of life will improve. 

Thank you for reading my blog on the Ways to Practice Much Needed Self-Care. Dragoyle wishes you a high quality of life with much joy, peace and love. If you liked this blog, please comment below and I'll give you 10% OFF your next order at dragoyle.com

 

What A Beginner Needs To Know
About Raising Chickens

Raising chickens can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. However, with the current prices of eggs at the supermarket many people are now turning to raising their own chickens, so they have fresh eggs without paying the high egg rates at the store. 

There are several reasons why you may choose to raise chickens for eggs rather than buying them at the store:

• Freshness and Quality: Freshly laid eggs have a different taste, texture, and nutritional value than store-bought eggs. Home-raised eggs are usually richer, more flavorful, and more nutritious.
• Control over the chickens' diet: When you raise your own chickens, you have control over what they eat, which directly affects the quality of their eggs. You can choose to feed your chickens organic or non-GMO feed, for example, and you'll know exactly what they're consuming.
• Better for the environment: Raising chickens in your own backyard can be more environmentally friendly than buying eggs from large-scale commercial operations. You can reduce waste by composting the chicken manure and using it as fertilizer for your garden, and you'll have less packaging waste from egg cartons.
• Sense of accomplishment: Raising chickens can be a fulfilling hobby and a great source of pride. You'll have the satisfaction of producing your own food and knowing where it comes from.
• Reduced cost: Although there is an initial cost associated with setting up a coop and buying chickens, raising your own chickens can actually be more cost-effective in the long run. You'll save money on eggs, and you may also be able to sell surplus eggs to friends, family, or neighbors.
• Overall, raising chickens for eggs offers many benefits that go beyond simply providing fresh eggs. Whether you're looking to save money, produce your own food, or simply enjoy a new hobby, raising chickens can be a great choice.

Here are some important things to consider when starting out:

• Choose the right breed: Different breeds of chickens have different temperaments, egg-laying abilities, and hardiness. Consider what you want from your chickens (such as meat, eggs, or companionship) and choose breeds that fit those needs.
• Housing: Chickens need a safe and secure place to live, known as a coop. Your coop should be large enough for the number of chickens you have, and provide adequate ventilation, protection from predators, and a roosting area.
• Feed and water: Chickens need a balanced diet of feed, water, and occasional treats. Make sure they have access to clean water at all times, and feed them a commercial chicken feed that provides all the necessary nutrients.
• Health and safety: Keep your chickens healthy by monitoring their behavior, looking for signs of illness, and regularly cleaning their coop. Chickens are also at risk from predators, so make sure their housing is secure and protect them from outdoor hazards.
• Laws and regulations: There may be local laws and regulations regarding the keeping of chickens, so be sure to check with your city or county government before setting up your coop.
• Patience and commitment: Raising chickens requires time, patience, and a commitment to their care. Regular tasks include feeding, watering, collecting eggs, and cleaning the coop.

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to successfully raising happy and healthy chickens. To find more great articles visit us at dragoyle.com