DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

TIPS ON USING HOUSEHOLD FOODSCOOKING IN A DISASTER SITUATIONWhen disaster strikes, you may not have electricity or gas for cooking. Foremergency cooking you can use a charcoal grill, hibachi or propane campingunit 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 paperlabel and open the can first. And be careful -- don’t burn your hand since itmay be hot!Try to limit using salty foods since they can make you thirsty. Also, keep inmind dried foods (like pasta, beans, etc.) require extra water and cookingtime 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 limitopening the frig (don’t stand and stare in it like most of us do!) The frig willkeep foods cool for about 4 hours without power if left unopened. Dry iceor a block of ice can be placed in refrigerator if power is out more than 4hours.Second - Use foods from the freezer and, if possible, have a list of items inthe freezer taped outside or at least know how things are organized insideto find stuff quickly. (Keeping door shut keeps cold in.) Foods in a wellfilled,well-insulated freezer won’t go bad until several days after powergoes off. Usually there will be ice crystals in the center of food (whichmeans it’s still okay to eat or refreeze) for 2-3 days after a power failure. Ifpossible, 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 frozenbottles can help keep food cold longer if you lose power, plus you’ll haveextra water once it melts. This also helps keep freezer as full as possiblewhich makes it more energy efficient, but rotate bottles every 6 months.www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325151