With the spring storm season upon us, RGEC reminds you of the importance of food safety during weather-related emergencies and power outages.  

Some important things to keep in mind:  

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.

A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

Obtain dry or block ice to keep your refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic foot full freezer for 2 days. Plan ahead and know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased.

Click here for USDA recommendations

For more helpful tips, download the USDA publications “A Consumer’s Guide To Food Safety, Severe Storms and Hurricanes” and “Keeping Food Safe During An Emergency.” Both are also available in Spanish. Both English and Spanish copies of the publications above are also available at any RGEC area office. 

English Version: Severe Storms and Hurricanes Guide Storms