How Houston Residents Can Keep Food Safe During Winter Power Outages

Winter storms can create big challenges for Houston, especially when freezing temperatures lead to unexpected power outages. One of the biggest concerns when the electricity goes out is keeping food safe to eat. As many households prepare for cold weather this season, understanding how long refrigerated and frozen items remain safe without power can make a major difference.

Experts recommend keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. A refrigerator can usually keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer may hold its temperature for up to 48 hours. If the freezer is only half full, expect around 24 hours of safe temperature retention. Using appliance thermometers can also help you make quick decisions once power returns.

How to Protect Food When the Power Goes Out

Simple steps can go a long way during a storm. Group frozen items together to help them stay cold longer. If you have coolers on hand, you can move perishables such as dairy, meat, and leftovers into them and pack with ice. When possible, buy ice early. If your home is cold enough due to the weather, unopened frozen food may stay safe even longer.

Once the power comes back on, check temperatures before deciding what to keep. Foods that have risen above 40 degrees for more than two hours should be thrown out. While it’s tempting to save items that still look or smell normal, bacteria can develop long before food shows signs of spoilage. Ice crystals in frozen foods are a good sign that they can be safely refrozen.

Why It Matters for Houston Households

Houston’s winter storms may be less frequent than those in northern states, but the city’s infrastructure is not built for extended freezes. Power outages can happen quickly, leaving families unsure how to protect groceries and prevent illness. Being prepared helps avoid food waste and keeps households safe during unpredictable weather.

As colder days continue, keeping these food safety tips in mind can help Houstonians stay ready for whatever winter brings.

This article is a summary of reporting by FOX 26 Houston. Read the full story here.