If the power has been out for only a few hours, it s okay to keep less-perishable foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, nuts, hard and process cheeses, condiments, butter and margarine often keep for several days at room temperature. Toss food out, however, if it turns moldy or smells bad. Plan for unexpected emergencies. No matter where you live, experts advise keeping a three-day supply of food and water on hand for you, your family and your pets.
Canned foods are better than foods in glass bottles or jars because they won t break in a disaster.
Keep some high-energy foods on hand such as peanut butter, nuts and trail mix. Rotate your emergency food supply every year or so. That way, it s fresh when you need it. Keep manual can openers on your emergency shelf. Decorate eggs and refrigerate them promptly if you plan to eat them.