**Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program**

Application/Issuance Site Publications

Table of Contents

  ------------------------------------------------- ---------------------
  Topic                                             Page

  [Application/Issuance Site Selection              2
  Guide](#OLE_LINK3)                                

  [Application/Issuance Site Supply                 3
  Checklist](#OLE_LINK5)                            

  [Human Comforts Checklist](#OLE_LINK7)            6

  [Application/Issuance Site Readiness              7
  Checklist](#OLE_LINK2)                            

  [Site Flowchart - General](#OLE_LINK9)            8

  [Site Flowchart - Multi-building](#OLE_LINK10)    9

  [Site Flowchart - Florida Model](#OLE_LINK11)     10

  [Site Flowchart - Stadium](#OLE_LINK12)           11

  [Site Closeout Checklist](#OLE_LINK13)            12

  [Sign -- Duplicate Participation                  13
  Prevention](#OLE_LINK16)                          

  [Sign -- Wait Time](#Text15)                      14

  [Sign -- Wait Here](#Text16)                      15

  [Sign - Enter](#text17)                           16

  [Sign - Exit](#text18)                            17

  [Fraud Flyer 1](#Text7)                           18

  [Fraud Flyer 2](#Text8)                           19

  [Rules and Tips for SNAP Shoppers Flyer](#Text9)  20

  [A Consumer's Guide to Food Safety Flyer](#One)   21
  ------------------------------------------------- ---------------------

[]{#OLE_LINK3 .anchor}Application/Issuance Site

Selection Guide

+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
| *   | **Examples**           | **Notes**            |                |
| *( |                        |                      |                |
| )Fa |                        |                      |                |
| cto |                        |                      |                |
| r** |                        |                      |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Can the site be        |                      |                |
|     | co-located with        |                      |                |
|     | FEMA\'s DRC?           |                      |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Public transportation  | Shuttle service from |                |
|     | and/or Adequate        | other location,      |                |
|     | parking available?     | parking limited to   |                |
|     |                        | handicapped cars,    |                |
|     |                        | large conference     |                |
|     |                        | center type facility |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Site accessible to     | Sanitation and       |                |
|     | trucks or other large  | medical services,    |                |
|     | vehicles?              | delivery of food,    |                |
|     |                        | water, supplies,     |                |
|     |                        | etc.                 |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Adequate space and/or  | Protection from the  |                |
|     | facilities to address  | elements, space for  |                |
|     | human comfort          | portable toilets,    |                |
|     | concerns?              | food/water tent,     |                |
|     |                        | etc.                 |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Space large enough to  | Space for tents or   |                |
|     | serve the expected     | trailers, large      |                |
|     | number of applicants?  | auditoriums, space   |                |
|     |                        | for waiting          |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Issuance facility can  | Isolated rooms or    |                |
|     | be adequately secured? | areas, building      |                |
|     |                        | protected from       |                |
|     | (Consult with local    | public access, parts |                |
|     | police on site         | that can be closed   |                |
|     | selection and security | off by security,     |                |
|     | issues).               | traffic flow         |                |
|     |                        | directed away from   |                |
|     |                        | issuance sites       |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Accessible to the      | Wheelchair ramps,    |                |
|     | elderly and disabled,  | bathroom facilities, |                |
|     | or can they be made    | separate             |                |
|     | more accessible?       | location/room for    |                |
|     |                        | elderly & disabled,  |                |
|     |                        | plenty of seating    |                |
|     |                        | available            |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | In close proximity to  | Several sites spread |                |
|     | all affected segments  | geographically over  |                |
|     | of the community?      | the area, large      |                |
|     |                        | centrally-located    |                |
|     |                        | stadium with easy    |                |
|     |                        | access, mobile vans  |                |
|     |                        | to elderly/disabled  |                |
|     |                        | centers              |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     | Adequate power?        | Electricity,         |                |
|     |                        | generators and fuel  |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     |                        |                      |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+
|     |                        |                      |                |
+-----+------------------------+----------------------+----------------+

[]{#OLE_LINK5 .anchor}Application/Issuance Site

Supply Checklist

+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
| **For**       | **Item**         | **Nu   | **Sou  | *        | *  |
|               |                  | mber** | rces** | *Notes** | *( |
|               |                  |        |        |          | ) |
|               |                  |        |        |          | ** |
+===============+==================+========+========+==========+====+
| Physical      | Tables           |        |        |          |    |
| Plant         |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Chairs           |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Generators       |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Fuel             |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Fans or heaters  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Tents            |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Copy machines    |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Computers        |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Printers         |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Surge protectors |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Extension Cords  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Garbage bags     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Garbage cans     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Barricades       |        |        |          |    |
|               | (flexible        |        |        |          |    |
|               | preferred)       |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Caution tape     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Message board    |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Erasable markers |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Dollies          |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Porta-potties    |        |        |          |    |
|               | with service     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Hand washing     |        |        |          |    |
|               | stations         |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Dumpsters        |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Cones            |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Tower lighting   |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Fire             |        |        |          |    |
|               | extinguishers    |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Bins or garbage  |        |        |          |    |
|               | cans for         |        |        |          |    |
|               | clipboard        |        |        |          |    |
|               | storage          |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Numbers/tickets  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
| Communication | Bull horns       |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Radios           |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Walkie-talkies   |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Cell Phones      |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Fraud flyers     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Eligibility      |        |        |          |    |
|               | flyers           |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | EBT card         |        |        |          |    |
|               | guidance flyers  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Shopping tips    |        |        |          |    |
|               | flyers           |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Signage          |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | PA equipment &   |        |        |          |    |
|               | recording on how |        |        |          |    |
|               | to complete      |        |        |          |    |
|               | application      |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Cameras or       |        |        |          |    |
|               | video-cameras so |        |        |          |    |
|               | offsite staff    |        |        |          |    |
|               | can get visuals  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
| Issuance      | EBT cards        |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Issuance         |        |        |          |    |
|               | doc              |        |        |          |    |
|               | uments/manifests |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Allotment tables |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | EBT card readers |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Secure onsite    |        |        |          |    |
|               | EBT card storage |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
| Certification | Applications     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Calculators      |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Batteries for    |        |        |          |    |
|               | calculators,     |        |        |          |    |
|               | radios, etc.     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Staplers         |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Staples          |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | File folders     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Clip boards (to  |        |        |          |    |
|               | match form size) |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Pens             |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Eligibility and  |        |        |          |    |
|               | verification     |        |        |          |    |
|               | checklists       |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Rubber bands     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Storage bins     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Scissors         |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Box cutters      |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Trays            |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Packing tape     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Phone books      |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Map of affected  |        |        |          |    |
|               | area             |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | List of ongoing  |        |        |          |    |
|               | clients          |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
| Human         | Coolers          |        |        |          |    |
| Comforts      |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Ice              |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Water            |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Water containers |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Cups             |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Toilet paper     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Paper towels     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Sunblock         |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Insect repellant |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | First aid kits   |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Rain ponchos     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Meals ready to   |        |        |          |    |
|               | eat (MRE)        |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Snack foods for  |        |        |          |    |
|               | the ill/elderly  |        |        |          |    |
|               | (c               |        |        |          |    |
|               | ookies/crackers/ |        |        |          |    |
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
|               | juice)           |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Golf carts       |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               | Wheel chairs     |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+
|               |                  |        |        |          |    |
+---------------+------------------+--------+--------+----------+----+

[]{#OLE_LINK7 .anchor}Human Comforts Checklist

+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
| *   | *       | **Suggestions**                   | **Notes**      |
| *( | *Need** |                                   |                |
| )** |         |                                   |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
|     | Wat     | -   Portable water dispensers     |                |
|     | er/food |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Large water storage           |                |
|     |         |     containers                    |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Snack foods for the ill       |                |
|     |         |     (crackers/cookies/juice)      |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Red Cross or other            |                |
|     |         |     volunteer-run canteen         |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Support staff for water       |                |
|     |         |     stations                      |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Locate application site near  |                |
|     |         |     mass feeding site             |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
|     | Pro     | -   Tents for protection from     |                |
|     | tection |     elements                      |                |
|     | from    |                                   |                |
|     | the     | -   Fans/heaters                  |                |
|     | e       |                                   |                |
|     | lements | -   Use covered stadium           |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Run lines through             |                |
|     |         |     hallways/breezeways           |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Develop severe weather        |                |
|     |         |     alternatives                  |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
|     | Ba      | -   Portable toilets located for  |                |
|     | throoms |     privacy                       |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Handicapped-accessible        |                |
|     |         |     portable toilets              |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Toilets serviced at least     |                |
|     |         |     once a day                    |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
|     | Medical | -   Ambulance or rescue squad     |                |
|     | Care    |     on-site                       |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Volunteer doctors, nurses, or |                |
|     |         |     other health care workers     |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   First aid kits                |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+
|     | Pro     | -   Service at special location   |                |
|     | visions |     within the application site   |                |
|     | for the |                                   |                |
|     | Elderly | -   Elderly and disabled moved to |                |
|     | and     |     front of regular line         |                |
|     | D       |                                   |                |
|     | isabled | -   Handicapped parking           |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Appropriate areas of building |                |
|     |         |     easily accessible             |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Clients helped out of cars or |                |
|     |         |     line with wheelchairs or golf |                |
|     |         |     cart                          |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Snacks available              |                |
|     |         |     (crackers/cookies/juice)      |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Extra measures to heat/cool   |                |
|     |         |     special waiting area          |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Extra staff to assist with    |                |
|     |         |     completing application        |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Nurse/other health care       |                |
|     |         |     professionals available       |                |
|     |         |                                   |                |
|     |         | -   Access to special or          |                |
|     |         |     designated bathrooms          |                |
+-----+---------+-----------------------------------+----------------+

Application/Issuance Site

Readiness Checklist

[]{#OLE_LINK2 .anchor}

  --------- ---------------------------------------- --------------- ---------------
  **()**   **Action**                               **Notes**       **Reference**

            Staff identified and trained for                         Page
            screening, certification, issuance,                      
            clerical, human comforts, and other                      
            areas                                                    

            Bi-lingual staff or translators                          
            available                                                

            Volunteers recruited for helping                         
            complete applications, screening, human                  
            comforts, or other tasks                                 

            Staff comforts met (meals, food storage,                 
            break area, toilets)                                     

            Sufficient amount of EBT cards ready                     

            Secure transportation for EBT card                       
            arranged                                                 

            Issuance documents ordered and in                        
            adequate supply                                          

            Application translated and copied in                     
            sufficient numbers                                       

            Fliers translated and copied                             
            (eligibility, EBT, fraud, shopping)                      

            Duplicate participation check technology                 
            available                                                

            Anti-fraud measures                                      
            identified/coordinated with OIG                          

            Security measures coordinated with                       
            police                                                   

            Traffic flow/layout check for                            
            bottlenecks, security, crowd control                     

            Tables, chairs, phones, fans/heaters,                    
            tents, and other supplies obtained and                   
            inventoried                                              

            Human comforts addressed                                 

            Sever eweather plan developed                            

            Provisions developed for elderly and                     
            disabled                                                 

            Crowd control measures developed                         

            Bullhorns, walkie-talkies, cell phones,                  
            PA equipment ordered/procured                            

            Directional, instructional,                              
            informational signs made or ordered                      

            Publicity on hours,                                      
            parking/transportation, elderly/disabled                 
            measures ready                                           

            Publicity on eligibility and                             
            verification requirements, anti-fraud                    
            measures, authorized representative                      
            requirements ready                                       

            Outreach to non-English speaking, deaf,                  
            other special needs communities arranged                 
            with partners                                            

            Office supplies/equipment obtained and                   
            inventoried                                              

            Daily reporting system and methods for                   
            capturing data in place                                  

            Is certification/issuance system readied                 
            to capture and provide complete,                         
            credible reports?                                        
  --------- ---------------------------------------- --------------- ---------------

[]{#OLE_LINK9 .anchor}

**Site Flowchart - General**

![](media/image1.wmf){width="5.997916666666667in" height="6.6625in"}

[]{#OLE_LINK10 .anchor}**Site Flowchart -- Multi-building**

![](media/image2.wmf){width="5.99375in" height="5.736805555555556in"}

[]{#OLE_LINK11 .anchor}**Site Flowchart -- Food for Florida**

![](media/image3.wmf){width="5.747916666666667in"
height="5.958333333333333in"}

[]{#OLE_LINK12 .anchor}**Site Flowchart - Stadium**

![](media/image4.wmf){width="4.356944444444444in" height="6.825in"}

[]{#OLE_LINK13 .anchor}Site Closeout Checklist -- Food for Florida

  -------------------------------- ------------- --------------- -------------
  **Criteria**                     **Site Name**                 

                                   **Y/N or NA** **Person        **Date
                                                 Responsible**   Completed**

  Physical Site Closeout                                          

  a\. Team hired for closeout                                     
  operations                                                     

  b\. Notify site landlord of                                     
  closeout process                                               

  1\. Complete damage assessment                                  

  2\. Coordinate repair, as needed                                

  c\. Coordinate with                                             
  site-specific vendors                                          

  1\. Return of tents, tables,                                    
  chairs, barricades, generators,                                
  signage etc.                                                   

  d\. Clean up of facility                                        

  e\. State Owned Property                                        
  Inventory                                                      

  1\. Refer to site needs list \*                                 
  logistics to develop                                           

  2\. Forms (apps, screening                                      
  sheets, etc.)                                                  

  3\. Plan for lost & found                                       

  4\. Ship state owned property to                                
  appropriate site                                               

  Final Site Wrap Up                                              

  Thank you letters                                               

  After action meeting                                            

                                                                  

                                                                  
  -------------------------------- ------------- --------------- -------------

[]{#OLE_LINK16 .anchor}***STOP***

If you are currently receiving benefits through the regular

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamp Program) you are
not eligible for the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

[]{#Text15 .anchor}

**[the wait from this point is]{.smallcaps}**

**[     ]{.smallcaps}**

**[hours]{.smallcaps}**

[]{#Text16 .anchor}***STOP***

Please wait here until you are called.

**Enter**

[]{#text17 .anchor}**Here**

**Exit**

[]{#text18 .anchor}Do Not Enter

[]{#Text7 .anchor}Attention

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Applicants

*Be sure to tell the truth when you apply for food benefits.*

*Do not sell, trade, or give away your EBT card.*

*People who get benefits they are not entitled to*

*[will]{.underline} be required to pay them back.*

*People who break the SNAP rules may be disqualified from the program,
fined up to \$250,000, or put in jail for up to 20 years.*

*They may have to pay a fine [and]{.underline} go to jail.*

Computer check in progress!

*It is illegal to receive Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
twice for the same disaster.*

*We will check your household on the computer to see if you have
received benefits twice.*

[]{#Text8 .anchor}Attention

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Applicants

Duplicate Participation Check

Computer check

We will check your household on the computer to see

if you are already receiving Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
benefits.

It is illegal to apply for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
more than once for the same disaster.

[]{#Text9 .anchor}**Rules and Tips for *SNAP* Shoppers**

![](media/image5.png){width="1.6375in" height="1.988888888888889in"}

**You may be using SNAP benefits for the first time because of the
disaster. Here are some rules and tips you should know.**

**Rules**

**You may only purchase food with SNAP benefits. Food can also
include:**

-   **Infant formula**

-   **Ice and drinking water**

**You *cannot* buy non-food items with SNAP benefits. Non-food items
include:**

-   **Diapers, soap, medicine, paper products, pet food, etc.**

-   **Alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or other tobacco products**

**Tips**

-   **Most grocers accept SNAP benefits; look for a sign in the grocer's
    window that they take the EBT card.**

-   **Check out at the grocery store will be easier and faster if you
    separate the items you will buy with SNAP benefits from the other
    items you will buy with cash.**

**A Consumer\'s Guide to**

**Food Safety:**

[]{#One .anchor}Severe Storms and Hurricanes

***When in Doubt, Throw it Out!***

**FOOD SAFETY DURING AN EMERGENCY**\
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Did you know that a flood, fire, national disaster, or the loss of power
from high winds, snow, or ice could jeopardize the safety of your food?
Knowing how to determine if food is safe and how to keep food safe will
help minimize the potential loss of food and reduce the risk of
foodborne illness. This Consumer\'s Guide will help you make the right
decisions for keeping your family safe during an emergency.\
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**POWER OUTAGES**\
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We practice basic safe food handling in our daily lives, but obtaining
and storing food safely becomes more challenging during a power outage
or natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods.\
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**Steps to Follow to Prepare for a Possible Weather Emergency:**\
Keep an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer. An
appliance thermometer will indicate the temperature in the refrigerator
and freezer in case of a power outage and help determine the safety of
the food.

-   Make sure the freezer is at 0 °F (Fahrenheit) or below and the
    refrigerator is at 40 °F or below.

-   Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the
    freezer, refrigerator, or coolers after the power is out.

-   Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk, and fresh meat
    and poultry that you may not need immediately-this helps keep them
    at a safe temperature longer.

-   Plan ahead and know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased.

-   Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of
    contaminated water in case of flooding.

-   Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerator food cold if the power
    will be out for more than 4 hours. Purchase or make ice cubes and
    store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler.
    Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.

-   Group food together in the freezer---this helps the food stay cold
    longer.

**Steps to Follow During and After the Weather Emergency:**

-   Never taste a food to determine its safety!

-   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 and the door
    remains closed).

-   Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is
    at 40 °F or below.

-   Obtain block ice or dry ice to keep your refrigerator and freezer 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.

-   If the power has been out for several days, then check the
    temperature of the freezer with an appliance thermometer or food
    thermometer. If the food still contains ice crystals or is at 40 °F
    or below, the food is safe.

-   If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, then check each
    package of food to determine its safety. If the food still contains
    ice crystals, the food is safe.

-   Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish,
    soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers, and deli items after 4 hours
    without power.

-   Drink only bottled water if flooding has occurred.

-   ***When in doubt, throw it out!***

**SAFETY OF FOOD IN CONTAINERS EXPOSED TO FLOOD WATERS**\
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**How to Determine What Food to Keep or Discard**

-   Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood
    water.

-   Discard any food that is not in a waterproof container if there is
    any chance that it has come into contact with flood water. Food
    containers that are not waterproof include those with screw-caps,
    snap lids, pull tops, and crimped caps. Also, discard cardboard
    juice/milk/baby formula boxes and home canned foods if they have
    come in contact with flood water, because they cannot be effectively
    cleaned and sanitized.

-   Inspect canned foods and discard any food in damaged cans. Can
    damage is shown by swelling, leakage, punctures, holes, fractures,
    extensive deep rusting, or crushing/denting severe enough to prevent
    normal stacking or opening with a manual, wheel-type can opener.

-   Thoroughly wash metal pans, ceramic dishes, and utensils (including
    can openers) with soap and water, using hot water if available.
    Rinse and then sanitize them by boiling in clean water or immersing
    them for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented,
    liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water (or the
    cleanest, clearest water available).

-   Thoroughly wash countertops with soap and water, using hot water if
    available. Rinse and then sanitize them by applying a solution of 1
    tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of
    drinking water (or the cleanest, clearest water available). Allow to
    air-dry.

**Steps to Salvage All-Metal Cans and Retort Pouches**\
Undamaged, commercially prepared foods in all-metal cans and retort
pouches (for example, flexible, shelf-stable juice or seafood pouches)
can be saved if you do the following:

-   Remove the labels, if they are the removable kind, since they can
    harbor dirt and bacteria.

-   Thoroughly wash the cans or retort pouches with soap and water,
    using hot water if it is available.

-   Brush or wipe away any dirt or silt.

-   Rinse the cans or retort pouches with water that is safe for
    drinking, if available, since dirt or residual soap will reduce the
    effectiveness of chlorine sanitation.

-   Then, sanitize them by immersion in one of the two following ways:

    -   Place in water and allow the water to come to a boil and
        continue boiling for 2 minutes, or

    -   Place in a freshly made solution consisting of 1 tablespoon of
        unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of drinking water
        (or the cleanest, clearest water available) for 15 minutes.

-   Air-dry cans or retort pouches for a minimum of 1 hour before
    opening or storing.

-   If the labels were removable, then re-label your cans or retort
    pouches, including the expiration date (if available), with a
    marker.

-   Food in reconditioned cans or retort pouches should be used as soon
    as possible, thereafter.

-   Any concentrated baby formula in reconditioned, all-metal containers
    must be diluted with clean drinking water.

**FOOD SAFETY: REMOVING ODORS FROM REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS**\
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Refrigerators and freezers are two of the most important pieces of
equipment in the kitchen for keeping food safe. We are instantly
reminded of their importance when the power goes off, flooding occurs,
or the unit fails, causing food to become unsafe and spoil. The odors
that develop when food spoils can be difficult to remove. Use this
information to learn how to remove odors from units or how to safely
discard an affected unit.

**To Remove Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers**

If food has spoiled in a refrigerator or freezer and odors from the food
remain, they may\
be difficult to remove. The following procedures may help but may have
to be repeated several times.

-   Dispose of any spoiled or questionable food.

-   Remove shelves, crispers, and ice trays. Wash them thoroughly with
    hot water and detergent. Then rinse with a sanitizing solution (1
    tablespoon unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water).

-   Wash the interior of the refrigerator, including the door and
    gasket, with hot water and baking soda. Rinse with sanitizing
    solution as above.

-   Leave the door open for about 15 minutes to allow free air
    circulation.

If odor remains, try any or all of the following:

-   Wipe inside of unit with equal parts vinegar and water. Vinegar
    provides acid which destroys mildew.

-   Leave the door open and allow to air out for several days.

-   Stuff both the refrigerator and freezer with rolled newspapers.
    Close the door and leave for several days. Remove paper and clean
    with vinegar and water.

-   Sprinkle fresh coffee grounds or baking soda loosely in a large,
    shallow container in the bottom of the unit.

-   Place a cotton swab soaked with vanilla inside the freezer. Close
    door for 24 hours. Check for odors.

-   Use a commercial product available at hardware and housewares
    stores. Follow the manufacturer\'s instructions.

**If Odors Remain**\
If odors cannot be removed, then the refrigerator or freezer may need to
be discarded. If you need to discard the refrigerator or freezer,
discard it in a safe manner:

-   \"Childproof\" old refrigerators so children do not get trapped
    inside. The surest way is to take the door off.

-   If the door will not come off, chain and padlock the door
    permanently and close tightly, or remove or disable the latch
    completely so the door will no longer lock when closed.

It is unlawful in many jurisdictions to discard old refrigerators
without first removing the door.\
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Depending on where you live, your appliance will be picked up by your
solid waste provider, a recycler, a retailer (if you buy a new unit), or
program sponsored by local or regional utilities.

**FOOD SAFETY CONTACTS FOR AREAS AFFECTED BY SEVERE STORMS AND
HURRICANES**\
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**FSIS: USDA\'s Food Safety and Inspection Service**\
Consumers with food safety questions can phone the toll-free **USDA Meat
and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline** (1-888-674-6854); TTY,
1-800-256-7072.\
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The Hotline is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety
messages are available 24 hours\
a day.

Consumers can also ask safe food handling questions by logging on to
FSIS\' online automated response system called [\"Ask
Karen,\"](http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Food_Safety_Education/ASK_KAREN/index.asp)
on the Food Safety and Inspection Service\'s Web site:
www.fsis.usda.gov\
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E-mail inquiries can be directed to
[mphotline.fsis@usda.gov](http://www.fsis.usda.gov/contact_us/Email_Form/index.asp?rcpt=mphotline.fsis@fsis.usda.gov)\
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Additional information about USDA\'s food safety efforts can be accessed
on the FSIS Web site at [www.fsis.usda.gov](http://www.fsis.usda.gov/).