🌡️ Core Principles of Heat Retention

Heat rises → Focus on warming upper body and core.
Cold air sinks → Seal drafts near floors.
Body heat is precious → Trap it with layers and shared space.
Never risk carbon monoxide or fire → Safety first, always.
🔥 Immediate Actions (First 1–2 Hours)

1. Close Off Unused Rooms

Shut doors to bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways.
Use towels or draft stoppers at the base of doors.
Goal: Reduce the space you need to heat.
2. Layer Up—Fast

Put on thermal base layers, wool socks, hat, and gloves.
Use fleece or down jackets indoors.
Wrap in wool blankets or sleeping bags (they retain heat better than cotton).
3. Gather in One Room 4. Create a “Bed Cocoon”

Sleep in layers: thermal pajamas + socks + hat.
Place hot water bottles (or sealed soda bottles filled with hot tap water) at your core (armpits, groin).
Cover yourself with multiple blankets—add a plastic sheet or emergency blanket on top to trap heat (not next to skin).
5. Insulate Windows & Doors

Hang heavy curtains, quilts, or cardboard over windows.
Tape plastic sheeting over drafty panes.
Stuff rolled towels along door bottoms.
6. Use Your Oven? NO.

Never use a gas oven, stove, or charcoal grill indoors—carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and deadly.
Only use outdoor-safe heaters inside if they’re specifically rated for indoor use (e.g., Mr. Heater Buddy with oxygen sensor).