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Take necessary steps to ensure food safety during power outageOklahoma Although power outages can occur at any time of year, Oklahomans know that the chances are even higher during tornado season. Sometimes the power is out just for a few hours. In the event of a major storm or emergency, power can be out for days or weeks at a time. Barbara Brown, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service food safety specialist, said without electricity or a cold source, foods stored in refrigerators or freezers can become unsafe. "Bacteria in food grow rapidly between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 140 degrees Fahrenheit," Brown said. "If this food is consumed, people can become extremely sick." A good way to know the exact temperature of foods is to keep an appliance thermometer in both the refrigerator and the freezer. In the event of a power outage, consumers will know if the temperature in the refrigerator or freezer drops below a safe level. It is a good idea, especially during storm season, to keep frozen containers of water to use for ice. The containers can then be used in the freezer, refrigerator or ice chest to keep foods cool after the power is out. Gel packs can be frozen ahead of time and used in coolers, too. Also, plan ahead and know where to purchase dry ice. Fifty pounds of dry ice should keep an 18-cubic-foot freezer for two days. Brown suggests grouping food together in the freezer to help the food stay cold longer. "In an effort to retain as much cold air in the refrigerator and freezer as possible, keep the doors closed as much as possible," she said. "Foods can keep safely for about four hours if the refrigerator door is kept closed. A full freezer should maintain a safe temperature for about 48 hours, and about 24 hours if the freezer is only half full." Discard refrigerated perishables such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheese, milk, eggs, leftovers and deli items after four hours without power. Frozen items that still contain ice crystals or are at 40 degrees Fahrenheit can safely be refrozen. "It's much better to be safe than sorry when it comes to salvaging food items following a weather emergency," Brown said. "The best rule of thumb is 'when in doubt, throw it out.'" 4/7/08 Date: 4/1/08
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