disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

TIPS ON USING HOUSEHOLD FOODS
COOKING IN A DISASTER SITUATION
When disaster strikes, you may not have electricity or gas for cooking. For
emergency cooking you can use a charcoal grill, hibachi or propane camping
unit or stove - but only do this OUTDOORS!
Never use charcoal in an enclosed environment -- it causes deadly fumes!
You can also heat food with candle warmers or a can of sterno.
Canned food can be heated in the can, but remember to remove the paper
label and open the can first. And be careful -- don’t burn your hand since it
may be hot!
Try to limit using salty foods since they can make you thirsty. Also, keep in
mind dried foods (like pasta, beans, etc.) require extra water and cooking
time so may not be good choices during a disaster situation.
IF THE ELECTRICITY GOES OFF, USE FOOD WISELY ...
First - Use perishable food and foods from the refrigerator … and limit
opening the fridge (don’t stand and stare in it like most of us do!) The
refrigerator will keep foods cool for about 4 hours without power if left
unopened. Dry ice or a block of ice can be placed inside it too if power is
out more than 4 hours.
Second - Use foods from the freezer and, if possible, have a list of items in
the freezer taped outside or at least know how things are organized inside
to find stuff quickly. (Keeping door shut keeps cold in.) Foods in a wellfilled,
well-insulated freezer won’t go bad until several days after power
goes off. Usually there will be ice crystals in the center of food (which
means it’s still okay to eat or refreeze) for 2-3 days after a power failure. If
possible, use block or dry ice to help keep freezer food cold.
Third - Use non-perishable foods and staples in your pantry and cabinets.
TIP FOR YOUR FREEZER:
Before a disaster strikes, line your freezer with bottled water. The frozen
bottles can help keep food cold longer if you lose power, plus you’ll have
extra water once it melts. This also helps keep freezer as full as possible
which makes it more energy efficient, but rotate bottles every 6 months.
www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325
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