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Protecting Your Food Supply During a Storm

Many natural events, such as the fierce winter storms suffered in many areas last year, are alarming, but they may not require immediate evacuation. A good example of this is when power goes out during storms. When that happens, one of the first things homeowners may think about is their food supply. After all, if a storm is particularly violent, it may be days before the power is restored and the damage can be assessed. However, knowing what to do in such a situation can prevent it from turning into something more than just a major inconvenience.

Take Preemptive Action
Even before the power goes out, it should be obvious that a storm is on its way and action needs to be taken. Here is a list of steps to take before the lights go out to help ensure that perishable food stays fresh as long as possible.
• Stock the freezer with ice and frozen foods ahead of time. That ensures the food has enough time to adequately freeze. By keeping the freezer stocked, the frozen food will be preserved longer than it would if the freezer were only partially filled. Also, add as many bags of ice as is reasonable to help extend the life of the food even longer.
• Have a cool box available and fill it with ice, beverages and food. That way, it minimizes the need to open the freezer and refrigerator doors, which will aid in extending the life of the perishable goods.
• Make sure that both the freezer and refrigerated sections are set to the proper temperatures. The UK’s Food Standards Agency recommends that the refrigerated compartment be set below 5°C and the freezer compartment should be set at -18°C.
• Purchase appliance thermometers for the freezer and refrigerated sections to keep track of the internal temperature should the power go out. By following these simple steps, it is possible to extend the life of frozen perishable goods for up to two days.

If the Power Goes Out
If a storm is strong enough to knock out the power, additional steps will be necessary to preserve frozen and refrigerated foods for as long as possible. It’s important since there is no way to know how long the power outage will last. After the power goes out, avoid opening and closing the freezer and refrigerator compartments as much as possible. Every time the door opens cold air is released and that will adversely affect the temperature of the food. The goal is to keep the internal temperature low for as long as is reasonably possibly. Make note of the time when the power goes out.

The Red Cross estimates that food in the refrigerated section will stay at its ideal temperature for only about two hours. If it makes sense and there is room, transfer some of the refrigerated food to the freezer section. Finally, if the power is out long enough it may become necessary to discard some of the food. Dairy products typically have the shortest shelf life, but if there is any question about the safety of the food, throw it away. Becoming ill from food poisoning would only escalate an already difficult situation. Staying inside during a particularly severe storm is often the only alternative.

Since there is no way to know how long the confinement may last, ensuring the integrity of the food supply is an urgent matter. By following these simple guidelines, it will be easier to ride out the storm knowing that there is enough food to last. Find out how we can help you with Flood and Storm damage insurance claims here

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Has Your Home Been Damaged By Fire or Water?

On our website we have many different articles and guides to help you when your home is damaged by fire or water. Have a look at this article for more information about how we can help you: http://www.assistedclaims.co.uk/what-are-the-benefits-of-having-a-loss-assessor

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Don’t let water ruin your day. If you are a victim of water damage you could make insurance claim.

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Commercial insurance claims – how a loss assessor can help - http://www.assistedclaims.co.uk/commercial-insurance-claims-how-a-loss-assessor-can-help