Planning ahead before a storm can eliminate long searches for ice.
• Stockpile ice in the freezer. A block of ice or several bags of crushed ice can keep food cold for days in the freezer or in an ice chest. If an ice maker is part of the refrigerator, periodically emptying the cube holder into a plastic bag and storing that ice is an inexpensive way to keep a sufficient quantity for an emergency.
• First, be sure the freezer or ice chest is airtight. Then, pack any open space around the block or bag of ice with a towel, blanket or newspaper. Otherwise, warmer air around the ice will cause it to evaporate more rapidly.
• Ice kept in a freezer for a long period may develop an unpleasant odor and taste. Change out stored ice every few weeks so there is a supply of good-tasting ice. The more airtight the containers, the less odor the ice will absorb.
• Regular ice is below 32 degrees and will keep things cold; dry ice is 109 degrees below zero and will keep things frozen.
• A full freezer will stay cold longer. With the door closed, food in most freezers will stay frozen 1 to 3 days, even in the summer.
• A well-insulated freezer will keep food frozen longer that one with little insulation. The larger the freezer, the longer food will stay frozen.
• After a hurricane, electrical power will be out for several days. Refrigerated and frozen foods will spoil after a few days without power, but there are some steps that you can take to help keep your food longer.
• Prior to a storm, turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. If possible, remove foods from your refrigerator that you plan to use during and immediately after the storm and place them in a cooler full of ice.
• Freeze plastic containers of water and place in your freezer and refrigerator, then do not open the doors unless absolutely necessary.