By STEPHANIE FAROH
Extension Educator, Purdue Extension Kosciusko County

Though this winter has been relatively mild, it’s a good idea to brush up on our winter safety each season. One of the primary concerns is the winter weather’s ability to knock out heat and power to your home. It’s important to be prepared for severe winter weather before it strikes.

If your heat goes out during a winter storm, you can keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need. Be sure to use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Dress in layers of lightweight clothing and remember to eat well-balanced meals as able.

It’s also a good idea to store some emergency supplies. Here are a few important things to have on hand: one gallon of water per person, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a battery-powered or hand crank radio, a flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, a whistle to signal for help, a manual can opener for food, prescription medicines, glasses, pet food, and a fire extinguisher.

If your power is out for no more than four hours, the food in your refrigerator should be safe. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard any perishable food (such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers) that have been above 40 °F for over two hours.

The length of time food will stay frozen after the power goes out depends on many factors, including the amount of food in the freezer, the temperature of the food before the power failure, and the size of the freezer. A full freezer, if left unopened, will stay cold enough to keep food frozen for about two days. A half full freezer will keep food frozen for only one day. The larger the freezer, the longer the food will stay frozen.

Once your freezer and/or refrigerator are working again, evaluate the safety of the affected food. For frozen food, consider the type of food and the extent of thawing. For refrigerated food, consider the temperature inside the refrigerator before the return of power, the type of food, and the time these foods have been stored above 40°F. Always discard any items in the refrigerator that have come into contact with raw meat juices. You can’t rely on appearance or odor to determine whether food is safe, and never taste food to determine its safety. Bacteria from improperly stored foods may result in food poisoning and serious illness. When in doubt, throw it out.

Be safe and prepared throughout this winter season.

Here’s to a healthier you!

For more information call Stephanie at the Purdue Extension Kosciusko County office at (574) 372-2340, or email at [email protected].