Power Outage Safety Tips

FOOD SAFETY

For those experiencing a power outage, here are a few tips on food safety:

  • Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
  • Use coolers with ice if necessary.
  • Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures of 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture.
  • Maintain food supplies that do not require refrigeration.

MEDICATIONS

For those experiencing a power outage, here are a few tips on medication:

  • Some prescription medications require refrigeration, including many liquid drugs.
  • When the power is out for a day or more, throw away any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the prescription label says otherwise.
  • If your life depends on refrigerated medication, but the medications have been at room temperature, use them only until a new supply is available, then discard and use the new supply.
  • Replace all refrigerated medications as soon as possible.

ELECTRONICS & APPLIANCES

Please remember to turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, and electronic devices. Power may return with momentary “surges” or “spikes” that can cause damage.

GENERATOR & COOKING SAFETY

Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors