Public Information Frequently Asked Questions

  • Discard all perishable foods that have been without refrigeration and have remained at a temperature of 40° Fahrenheit and above for two hours or more
  • Do not eat canned foods if the can has been damaged
  • Keep foods that have been stored in an unopened, well functioning freezer based on the following criteria:
    • A half-full, unopened freezer will keep foods safely for up to 24 hours;
    • A fully stocked, unopened freezer can keep foods safely for 48 hours;
    • Refreeze foods only if the items still contain ice crystals and feel cold and hard to the touch
  • Do not taste foods to see if they are spoiled --- If in doubt throw it out.
  • For more information, visit http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/foodwater or http://www.fsis.usda.gov/help/FAQs_Food_safety/index.asp