Department of Consumer Protection Offers Consumer Advice in Advance of Winter Storm

“In addition to all the necessary preparations for a storm of this size, consumers also want to take steps to assure the safety of their food and medications, including oxygen if needed, Rubenstein said.”

Depending on the nature of the storm, residents may find themselves without power, or may suffer damage to their homes and property.  If that happens, Rubenstein says, a few reminders are in order:

FOOD SAFETY

• If the power goes out, consume perishable food and beverages as soon as possible
• Keep the freezer and refrigerator doors closed as much as possible to conserve the chill.
• Resources to print and review now:
  • A Guide to Food Safety in Emergencies
  • Food Facts: What Consumers Need to Know About Food and Water Safety During Hurricanes, Power Outages and Floods

MEDICATION AND HOME-DELIVERED MEDICAL SUPPLIES

• Loss of electricity could affect certain medications.
• Items that require refrigeration should not be relied upon for full effectiveness and potency if they were not maintained at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. Due to potency loss, replace affected medicines when possible.
• Anyone having questions about the safety or storage of any medication should contact their pharmacist.
• Persons who depend on oxygen and other medical supply deliveries and plan to temporarily stay at another address – with a neighbor, family member or at a shelter – should notify their medical supply providers to have their supplies delivered to the temporary location   with no lapse in their care.

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