I have a lot of food in my freezer. What should I do?

According to FoodSafety.gov, the following guidelines apply:

  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
  • A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if the door is kept closed.
  • A full freezer will hold its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half-full). If your freezer is not full, group packages so they form an “igloo” to protect each other.
  • Place meat and poultry to one side or on a tray so if they begin thawing their juices will not get on other foods.
  • If the power is going to be out for a long time, buy dry or block ice to keep the refrigerator as cold as possible. Fifty pounds of dry ice should keep a fully-stocked 18-cubic-feet freezer cold for two days.

N.C. State University and N.C. A&T State University Cooperative Extension have created a great resource with tips on what to do with your food when the power goes out for an extended period.

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