The forecast is clear, and ice is expected across much of Texas. Around here, an ice storm isn’t just another weather event. It’s a stress test for infrastructure, utilities, and preparation. Instead of waiting until the last minute, we spent the day doing the manual work that actually matters when the grid starts struggling.
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| Trees that needed to come down anyway became firewood, clearing the driveway before the ice arrived. |
Cutting Fire Wood
We spent the day cutting, splitting, and stacking firewood, using trees that needed to come down anyway. A few were already leaning and would have eventually fallen across the driveway, so taking care of them now made sense while also building up our firewood supply.
When power lines start snapping under the weight of ice, that woodpile becomes more than just a backup. It’s dependable heat. We’re stacking it high and keeping it close to the house so it’s ready the moment indoor temperatures start dropping. There’s no substitute for a steady fire when everything outside is coated in ice.
Topping Off the Tanks
Fuel was next on the list. Every vehicle is topped off, and spare fuel cans are full and staged. During an ice storm, fuel quickly becomes a limited resource. Whether it’s for a generator, running errands once roads clear, or simply not having to worry about availability, full tanks mean independence.
Protecting the Well and Utilities
We also took time to winterize the well and check exposed plumbing. Freezing damage can linger long after the ice melts, and this is one of those tasks that’s far easier to do before temperatures drop. A few hours of preparation now can save days of repairs later.
The Standing Retreat: Moving to the Camper
One of our biggest advantages is the camper. It’s always staged and ready. If the house loses power or becomes difficult to keep warm, we don’t have to scramble or push through discomfort. We shift operations to the camper.
The camper isn’t just a warm place to sleep. It has internet, TV, and a solar setup to keep everything powered and running. With a smaller, more efficient space, it’s easy to stay comfortable while staying connected and informed as the storm plays out.
Ready for the Thaw
The work is done. Propane is topped off, fuel tanks are full, the well is protected, and the firewood is stacked. Now we wait. Hopefully the storm passes quietly. If it doesn’t, we’re ready—and that peace of mind is worth every bit of effort.
Stay safe, stay warm, and don’t wait until the ice is already falling to prepare.
While You’re Here...
- Ditching RV App Clutter: Why I installed Home Assistant in the camper to get better control of our systems.
- DIY Camper GPS: How we’re feeding accurate location data into Home Assistant (even when we're parked for a freeze).
- The Barebones Telescoping Fire Blower: A cheap tool that saves your eyebrows when you're trying to get that wood stove or fire pit going.
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