As Finances dip Winter Cold Becomes more Tolerable as People Adapt
As finances dip winter cold becomes more tolerable as people adapt
. It has become a challenge to families. Laura Nichols in her home in Maplewood, New Jersey cuddles up with her dog to share the warmth. Her four children try to get close to fight the 50 degree bite of cold in their residence.
Nichols has joined a contest she found on the Internet known as "furnace abstinence". Those who can stay the longest without switching on the furnaces get rewards. More and more of these type of challenges are popping across the nation trying to put some spice into reality. In 2008 Nichols won a trophy and she is hoping to repeat her performance this year.
At play are two factors slim budgets and environment awareness. Right across the country hundreds are vowing to control use of air conditioners.
Nichols explains, "Heated homes are a modern concept. Over 120 years ago, people had a stove fireplace, and that warmed their homes to a point. They didn't walk around in T-shirts and shorts all year long." Currently Nichols is without a job and is looking around how to save money. She got a credit of $1,000 on her utility bill in 2008. Her 14 year old son has joined in the competition and is game to the idea of winning. He commented, "I actually like to be cold when I go to sleep."
The competition rules are varied. In Maplewood families were challenged to go cold as long as possible. Space heaters and fireplaces are allowed. One blogger suggested the setting of thermostats a few degrees below normal. In most of the instances there are no material rewards.
In Seattle a mother of two working as a computer programmer saved $8,000 in 2008 by setting thermostat at 62 degrees during daytime and 55 degrees after dark. For her more than the carbon factor saving dollars is vital. The change in lifestyle has made the family wear more clothes.
The mood of challenge has shown that people are more adaptable than previously thought. Over 200 from USA and Canada participate in the challenge that is now in its third year. The threshold of cold tolerance for many is increasing and they are getting used to its bite. James Lee of Chester is the father of two. He warmly noted, "We wear wool slippers, flannel pajamas and a robe; it's not that bad. Training yourself to live cooler is a good thing."
As Finances dip Winter Cold Becomes more Tolerable as People Adapt