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. ​

 

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