How to Survive without your utilities

Water , Gas , Power

With the high cost of living combined with a slow economy many people find themselves in though financial positions. In many instances people cannot afford to pay their utilities in turn they are forced to live without gas/electricity / water. Living without your utilities is tough and is a humbling experience . Should you find yourself in this position dont panic. There are many ways to make due without your ulilities.

Things You'll Need

• Ice chest
• flashlights
• battery operated lanterns /candles
• Gym membership

Instructions

1. 

   DON'T PANIC.........

   Gather candles , flashlights , ice chest , and if possible purchase a low cost gym membership.

2. 

   SHOWERING..........

   Cleanliness is obviously important and should your water be turned off you won't have means of showering . The solution is to shower at your local gym . Many cities have community centers where you can get a monthly gym membership for about $20 - $30 (sometimes less) per month. The gym membership will also keep you busy and get you in shape .The alternative to this would be to shower at a friend/relatives house.

3. 

   ILLUMINATION.........

   Set up candles all around the house. No one wants to sit in a dark room all night. Be sure to monitor candles in vacant rooms as it would add insult to injury should your house burn down. If you can afford a battery operated lantern , I strongly suggest you pick up a few of those. They cost about $10 bucks and are a safe alternative to candles.

4. 

   REFRIGERATION..........

   Your power is off therefor everything in your fridge is now at risk of spoilage. Take all things perishable out of your fridge and place them into an ice chest along with 2 bags of ice. This will keep all for food nice and cold for about 3 days . Once the ice melts replace it with 2 more bags.

5. 

   WARMTH..........

   Heat can be one of the toughest utilities to not have , especially in the winter . Your best bet on this one is to bundle up . Wear lots of layers and be sure to sleep with plenty of blankets. Fortunately there are laws in certain states that make it illegal for utility companies to turn off your heat during the winter months.

6. 

   ENTERTAINMENT..........

   As for entertainment you have a few options . You could listen to a battery operated radio , watch a battery operated portable TV , talk with your housemates. You probably wont want to spend much time at your house so go down to the local bowling alley , bar , or spend some time at a friends house.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep Busy

• Work out a payment plan with your utility company.