Recently, we experienced some extreme weather, and many of our friends and neighbors found themselves without power.  My daughter is in college and lives in student housing.  The entire campus at the university she attends lost power and internet connection!  As a mom, I had several concerns, including how she would be fed, and, of course, I was worried that the food she had in her living quarters would spoil. 

When the electricity goes out, precautions must be taken to ensure your food is safe to consume.  Refrigerated and frozen foods should be kept cold, and remember, when in doubt, throw it out. 

Keep your refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to keep food cold.  When you do open the doors, make it quick!  Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees F or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. 

If you don’t have a thermometer for your refrigerator and freezer, come see me.  I have boxes full, and I would be happy to provide you with a couple at no charge.  You should have one in your freezer and one in your refrigerator.  My office address is 1331 McArthur Street in Manchester.

The order of consuming food when the power goes out is refrigerated foods first, then freezer food (quick-thawing food first), and then canned, ready-to-eat, and dried food. 

Being proactive will help ensure you are ready should you experience a power outage.  Make it a habit to fill the empty space in your freezer with containers filled with water.  In doing so, the freezer operates more efficiently and stays cooler longer, plus, you will have additional portable water should you need it.

Eating well-balanced meals will help you stay warmer.  Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages as they cause your body to lose heat faster.  Instead, opt for warm, sweet beverages or broth to help keep yourself warm.

Follow these suggested tips for the next time we are faced with the loss of electricity, and don’t forget to check in with your family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly.  Remember, knowledge is power.

Michelle Matthews is an agent with the UT Extension Family & Consumer Sciences.