Don’t Make This Costly Mistake After a Power Outage
Food safety after an outage depends on how long the power was out, whether appliance doors stayed closed and the temperature inside — follow simple guidelines to avoid illness and waste.
Power outages caused by severe weather, equipment failures or other emergencies can leave homeowners wondering whether the food in their refrigerator or freezer is still safe to eat. Food safety experts say the answer depends on how long the power was out, whether the appliance doors remained closed and the temperature inside the unit. Understanding a few key guidelines can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness and prevent unnecessary food waste.