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December 17, 2025 32 mins

What would you do if the power went out tonight and it was below freezing? Most people don’t think about it until they’re already shivering, but having a solid plan for staying warm during a winter power outage is one of the most important preps you can make. In this episode, Todd breaks down multiple heating alternatives—from backup heat sources to clever low-tech solutions—and shares personal stories from his own experiences with Winter Storm Uri. Whether you have a wood stove, a propane heater, or absolutely nothing, there’s something here for you.

But this episode goes beyond just heating methods. Todd discusses strategic thinking that most people overlook: which room to choose, how to maximize the heat you do have, when it’s time to leave your home, and how to turn a scary situation into a training opportunity for your family. If you live anywhere that gets cold, this is an episode you can’t afford to skip.

  • [00:00] Why losing power in freezing temperatures shifts from inconvenience to life-threatening emergency—and what most people get wrong about how to stay warm and their preparedness.
  • [02:32] The truth about propane heaters: Todd shares a surprising tip about using a fan that most Little Buddy owners never consider.
  • [07:07] How one family survived Christmas Eve when their furnace died—using nothing but quilts, strategic room selection, and a simple door trick.
  • [09:11] The candle experiment that shocked Todd: a group home story reveals how small flames can change room temperature faster than you’d expect.
  • [19:13] Stranded in the cold: the incredible survival story of a father who kept his family of six alive for two days after their Jeep flipped in the Nevada wilderness.
  • [23:36] The “pre-heat your house” strategy: a counterintuitive move that could buy you hours of comfort before the power even goes out.
  • [28:31] The danger signs you need to recognize: Todd explains when staying home becomes more dangerous than braving the elements to find warmth elsewhere.

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