Save perishables during power outages
Sudden power outages can be frustrating and troublesome especially when they are prolonged.
In January, residents experienced power outages due to an ice storm. This time, short outages are being experienced by residents due to faulty equipment.
Luckily, there have not been extended outages, but what if there is a prolonged outage due to overload or storms?
It's wise to be prepared before there's a crisis. By planning ahead, perishable foods can be saved.
If a power outage is less than two hours during the summer, perishable foods should remain adequately cooled and safe to consume.
Here's what to do:
— One or two coolers should be secured for foods. Disposable foam coolers work just as well as hard plastic coolers.
— When an outage occurs, transport perishable foods to coolers and surround with ice.
— Stock up on non-perishable foods such as canned and boxed goods, and powdered milk. These can be eaten cold or heated on a grill.
— A digital, quick-response thermometer will assure foods are the proper temperature. Hot foods should be at least 140 degrees F, and cold food should be at least 40 degrees F.
— Do not open the refrigerator or freezer. An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for a couple of hours. A freezer that is half full will keep food frozen up to 24 hours and a full freezer for 48 hours.
— If the power outage is going to be more than two to four hours, pack refrigerated milk, dairy products, meats, fish, poultry, eggs, and other perishable items in coolers surrounded with ice.
— If the power outage will be prolonged, prepare a cooler with ice for frozen foods.
If electricity is off at bedtime, leave on a bedroom light. When the electricity comes on, return perishables to the refrigerator and freezer.
A safe "rule of thumb is "if in doubt, throw it out."
