Power Outages

 

Return to Food Safety

 

Be Prepared:

  • One or two days before a hurricane hits, turn the refrigerator and freezer dial to the coldest temperature.
  • Freeze potable water in food-grade containers.
  • Have a refrigerator thermometer on hand.

When the Power Goes Out:

  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
  • The refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.
  • If the refrigerator temperature goes above 40˚ F for two hours or more, throw out all perishable foods, e.g. milk, eggs, meat, poultry, leftovers.
  • Don’t rely on the smell, appearance, or taste test.

Can I use food that’s been in the refrigerator if the power goes? Can I refreeze food if the power was off? Here is a guide as to what you can keep and what to toss.

  When to Save and When to Throw Out

 

For more information contact the Family and Consumer Sciences section at (561) 233-1742.