When the power goes out unexpectedly, one of the biggest concerns for many households is how to manage food storage, especially in the refrigerator and freezer. Whether the outage lasts for a few hours, days, or even longer, it’s crucial to know the best practices to preserve food quality and safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this challenge.
Immediate Actions When the Power Goes Out
1. Keep the Doors Closed:
• The first and most important step is to keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. This helps maintain the cold temperature inside and slows down the warming process.
• A refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if unopened, while a full freezer will maintain its temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half full).
2. Monitor the Temperature:
• Use a Taylor Classic Series Large Dial Fridge/Freezer Thermometer to monitor the temperature inside your fridge and freezer. The fridge should remain at or below 40°F (4°C), and the freezer should be at 0°F (-18°C) or lower.
3. Group Foods Together:
• In the freezer, group frozen items together to help them stay colder longer. A packed freezer retains cold better than a half-empty one.
4. Prepare Ice Packs:
• If you have access to ice or gel packs, place them in the fridge to help keep the temperature down.
• You can also use containers of water, which will freeze and help maintain the cold environment longer.
If the Outage Lasts More Than a Day
1. Use Dry Ice or Block Ice:
• Consider purchasing Luna Ice Brand Dry Ice or Reusable Gel Ice Packs by Cooler Shock to keep your refrigerator and freezer cold if the outage extends beyond a day.
• Fifty pounds of dry ice should keep an 18-cubic-foot full freezer cold for two days.
2. Prioritize Perishable Items:
• Move perishable items that you need to consume quickly (like dairy, meat, and leftovers) to the front of the fridge so you can access them without opening the door for long.
• Plan meals that use these items first to avoid waste.
3. Use Coolers:
• If the fridge’s temperature rises above 40°F, transfer perishable items to Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler with ice or ice packs to keep them at a safe temperature.
• Keep the coolers in a shaded, cool area to prolong the cold.
Assessing Food Safety After Power Is Restored
1. Check the Temperature:
• As soon as power is restored, check the thermometer in the fridge and freezer.
• If the fridge was at 40°F or below, and the freezer at 0°F or below, most foods are safe to keep.
2. Examine Each Item:
• Discard any perishable food that has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours.
• Foods that are still frozen or have ice crystals should be safe to refreeze or cook.
3. When in Doubt, Throw It Out:
• If you’re unsure about the safety of any food item, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard it.
• Spoiled food can cause foodborne illnesses, which are not worth the risk.
Long-Term Preparedness Tips
1. Invest in a Generator:
• If you live in an area prone to power outages, consider investing in a Champion Power Equipment Portable Inverter Generator to keep your appliances running during emergencies. Note, at least a 3000 watt generator is needed to run the average refrigerator/freezer.
2. Stock Shelf-Stable Foods:
• Keep a supply of Augason Farms Emergency Food Supply that don’t require refrigeration, such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and shelf-stable milk.
3. Create a Plan:
• Have a family plan for handling power outages, including a list of emergency contacts and local resources for ice and dry ice.
Being prepared and knowing what to do when the power goes out can help you preserve food, save money, and ensure your family stays safe and healthy. Always stay informed about the status of the power outage and follow local authorities’ guidance for any extended emergency situations.
