Here are some steps you can take to help ensure the safety and health of you and your family during a power outage. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed so heat stays out and cold stays in. Most refrigerators stay cold for at least four to six hours, depending on the warmth of your kitchen and if the doors remain closed. If the power is out longer, you might want to consider buying bags of ice to help keep the refrigerator cool.
Frozen foods can hold for about two days in a full freezer if it stays closed.
A freezer that is half full will stay cold for about one day. Each package of frozen food is a block of ice, helping to keep the freezer well insulated. Once the power is back on, don t rely on appearance or odor as your guide to food safety. Then use them as soon as you can. Dispose of these foods safely where animals can t eat them.