What
to Do in Case of Power Failure Courtesy
of U.S. Cold Storage
The freezer
compartment should be opened only if absolutely necessary, and
then for the shortest possible time.
A full
freezer will stay at a satisfactory temperature for about two
days. However, fewer items mean faster thawing time.
Be sure
your freezer is plugged in properly. Check to see if a fuse
is blown.
If the
power will be off for several days, purchase dry ice or take
frozen foods to a commercial freezer or locker. Use about 25
pounds of dry ice for every 10 cubic feet of space to keep your
freezer temperature low for two to four days. Pack newspapers
around frozen foods and then add dry ice. Wear gloves when handling
the dry ice and use care to avoid freezer burn. Avoid using
large quantities of dry ice in poorly ventilated areas.
If food
is partially thawed, but still has some ice crystals, it usually
can be refrozen. However, fish, meats and other foods in cream
sauces, frozen dinners, cream cakes and cream pies are best
used immediately or discarded.
If food
is completely thawed, but still cold to the touch, use the food
immediately or dispose of it.
