RADIO TRANSCRIPT
October 7, 2024
Brandi Silver

This is Brandi Silver, Family and Consumer Sciences agent with the NC Cooperative
Extension, Burke County Center. Today we’re covering an important topic—Food
Safety After the Storm: Letting Go of Condiments (and Why It’s Okay), especially
when power outages leave your refrigerator and freezer in limbo.

If your refrigerator door stays closed, food will remain safe for up to 4 hours. A
full freezer holds its temperature for 48 hours, while a half-full freezer lasts 24
hours. After 4 hours without power, move perishable items—like meat, fish, eggs,
and leftovers—into a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs to keep them below 40°F.
If you’re unsure about an item’s safety, toss it. Never taste food to see if it’s still
good.

If you’ve experienced food loss, we have local resources to help replenish your
supplies. Several pickup locations in Burke County are open, including George
Hildebran Fire/Rescue, Longtown Fire Department, Enola Fire Department,
Brendletown Fire/Rescue-Station 1, Jonas Ridge Fire Department, and the
Foothills Higher Education Center. Feel free to visit without hesitation—there’s no
shame in getting the help you need, and you can give back when you’re able.
Lastly, I understand the struggle of parting with your favorite condiments. I’ve
been there too! But let’s stay focused on safety, and together, we’ll get through
this. For more tips, visit the USDA or N.C. Cooperative Extension websites or give
us a call at 764-9480. Stay safe, Burke County!