Winter weather in Canada - snow storms, ice storms, high winds - can all lead to power outages. Homes can be left without electricity for long hours or even days. When power is lost, refrigerators and freezers cannot control temperatures, increasing the risk of food spoilage. Unsafe food can cause serious illness, so it is important to follow proper safety practices during outages.
When electricity goes out, refrigerator and freezer doors should stay closed as much as possible. Keeping doors shut helps maintain cold temperatures inside. Perishable items such as meat, milk, cheese, eggs, cooked foods, and leftovers must be thrown away if they become warmer than 40°F for more than two hours. Frozen food that thaws and becomes warmer than 40°F should also be discarded.
A full freezer can keep food frozen for up to two days if it remains closed. A half-full freezer may only protect food for about one day. If the freezer is not full, grouping food packages together will help them stay colder longer.
Storing food outdoors in snowbanks is not safe. Temperatures outside can change quickly, even during snowfall. Sunlight can cause frozen food to thaw, and outdoor storage may expose food to animals, dirt, and harmful bacteria. If food must be kept outside for a short time, it should be placed in sealed plastic containers or coolers, kept away from direct sunlight, and checked often.
Dry ice may be used to keep food frozen during extended outages. Gloves should be worn when handling dry ice to avoid frostbite. Areas should be well ventilated because dry ice releases carbon dioxide gas. Placing cardboard or newspaper between dry ice and freezer shelves prevents cracking and damage. About 11 kg (25lbs) of dry ice can protect a medium-sized freezer for approximately four days.
If a home experiences flooding or structural damage, all food that touches floodwater or debris must be thrown away. Damaged cans, broken packaging, and food containing glass or debris should also be discarded.
When water systems are damaged, only bottled water should be used for drinking, cooking, and washing. Families should carefully follow boil water notices until officials confirm that the water supply is safe.
Following these simple steps can help families stay safe and healthy during winter emergencies.