With the temperatures in the 90’s, it’s hard to remember how cold we were in February. There were icicles hanging from the trampoline and the fences, and most of Texans went days without electricity or news about why we were freezing in the dark.
It might seem strange to think about preparing for those cold days during the hottest months of the year, but now is the time to stock up on supplies for both an arctic blast and a hurricane.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admiration, NOAA, has predicted an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. Not the level we saw in 2020, but all of us know it only takes one to wreck your world.
Instead of fighting the crowds when a hurricane or freeze is on the way, why not do some preparedness shopping now.
Here’s a list compiled from what we encountered and feedback from you, faithful readers:
A generator. Order now while they’re in stock. They’re not cheap, but you’ll be glad you spent the money when the lights are out, especially if you’re depending on the state of Texas to restore power quickly.
Christmas lights. Not the LED lights but lights that use bulbs. These are what you’ll use to keep your bushes and plants warm in case of a freeze. Of course, they’re useless if the power doesn’t stay on.
Extension cords. In case we’re lucky enough to keep the power on, you’ll need extension cords to hook up those Christmas lights. Not the $1.99 extension cords you buy at the dollar store. You’ll need the heavy-duty bad boys to handle running the refrigerator from the generator.
Candles. Stop saying you don’t want them as a gift. Take every candle you can get and search the clearance aisles for those ugly ones no one wants. While you’re at it, buy a box of Diamond Head matches to light those candles.
Flashlights and batteries. In case candles make you nervous, pick up some flashlights but get the ones that run on AA batteries because they’re cheaper and easier to find than the 9-volt ones.
Pipe insulation. Forget buying wraps when a freeze is predicted, and don’t kid yourself you can use a pool noodle. Get the insulation now and store it. Insulation doesn’t have an expiration date.
Kitchen: A manual can opener. Get a Baby Boomer to show you how to use it. Plastic water pitchers are cheap at a dollar store. You’ll use these to hold drinking water or, if you have to fill the tub with water, to get the water out of the tub. Buy bottled water, but keep an eye on the expiration date.
Blankets. The only blankets most of us have are the heirloom quilts our grandmothers made or light-weight fleeces we use for our usually mild winters. Layering on blankets is the best way to stay warm.
No refrigeration needed. Any food that requires only boiling is your best bet here. Ramen noodles don’t have any extra calories or sky-high levels of sodium when the power’s out. Other staples include protein shakes, cookies, individual bags of snacks, crackers and peanut butter.
Paper goods. Pick up a supply of paper plates and paper towels, including extra toilet paper. For some reason, whenever there’s a natural disaster, people stockpile toilet paper. Go ahead and get in front of the hoarders.
Battery-powered radio. If you’re a weather or news junkie like me, not knowing what’s happening in the world causes anxiety. Invest in an inexpensive radio that runs on AA batteries. “C” and “D” batteries are expensive and hard to find.
Make sure you’re taking care of your home and business instead of relying on the Public Utility Commission. It might be the only way you’ll keep the lights on this summer or stay warm this coming winter.
This column was originally published in The Fort Bend Herald.