Ford Repair: power loss in 99 Ford Escort, advance auto parts, seatbelt light

Question
QUESTION: I was driving home tonight when I noticed my seatbelt light came on about 3 miles from my home.  I was about 2 miles from my house and the low fuel light came on, and soon the lights shut off and the radio began to blink in and out (I shut if off).  I tapped on the breaks and my speedometer dropped to zero, even though I was obviously still driving.  The blinkers stopped working and when I came to a stop to turn on my road, when I applied pressure to the gas it had trouble getting up to speed.  I tried restarting it after it cooled down and the lights seemed to be working fine.

I'm wondering if you think this is a short of some kind? A fuel problem? An electrical?  The engine? (yikes!)

ANSWER: first thing i would do is check connections at battery and have battery and charging system checked-have it scanned for codes at a local autozone or advance auto parts they do this for free but remember they only have code readers they are not diagnostic computors-if you have a code stored make an appointment at a reputable garage to have it checked out-for example you can get an oxygen sensor fault code because of a vacuum leak it doesn't mean the sensor is bad. so please don't buy any parts and have them installed because you have a code. or you can follow up with me if you get a code. have charging system and possibly ignition switch checked first. good luck.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So, I've spoken with two mechanic friends of mine that both think it is the alternator.  My next question is, I need to get the car from my home to the mechanic.  How do I get the battery to last long enough to get it there? (will it take a charge, or jump if needed?...or will it be like working with a dead battery? Or worse, will it damage my car further?)

Answer
depending on the condition of your battery and whether or not something is drawing the battery down even  your alternator-it should take a charge-slow charge it for several hours-after starting it do not run any accessories including the a/c-lights-wipers-radio and if your garage is within 5 miles you should be able to make it. if you have any doubts have it towed.