In addition, health risks from contamination or spoiled food may increase. The Lee County Department of Community Services offers the following advice for making it through a storm without power. Consider the amount of cooking time needed for particular foods. If you have limited heat for cooking, choose foods that quickly cook. Do not cook frozen foods unless you have ample heat for cooking.
Most frozen foods require considerably more cooking time and heat than canned goods.
Also, if power is off, it is best to leave the freezer door closed to keep food from thawing. Many foods can be skewered, grilled or wrapped in foil and cooked in a fireplace. If gas is cut off but you still have electricity, use electric skillets, hot plates or coffee makers to heat food. Candle warmers and other devices, such as fondue pots, may be used if no other heat sources are available. Use safety precautions with these devices.