Food Safety And Water Damage In Tennessee

By Author: Leo Nov
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The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has released special guidelines aimed to help education people who have experienced water damage in Tennessee. In particular, it relates to food safety as a way of making sure that residents do not consume spoiled or contaminated food. The guidelines were prompted by the flooding and power outages experienced across middle and west Tennessee.

Food safety must always be a top priority for affected residents. To ensure the safety and wellness of the people, the Tennessee public health officials urged individuals to discard all food that may have been exposed to flood water. In addition to this, perishables that were exposed to temperatures about 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours or more should be thrown out as well.

There is a tendency for people begin to return to their homes several hours or days after their properties have been exposed to water damage in Tennessee. It is important to remember that food contaminated by flood or compromised by loss of power poses a health risk. A commonly held food safety attitude is when in doubt, throw it out. The health and wellness ...
... of residents are too important to take any chances.

Foods that should be discarded include those that are canned, which shows signs of bulging, cracking or damage as well as those that have an unusual odor, color or even texture. Perishable food items that did not come in contact with flood water but have been above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours or longer should also be tossed. This includes meat, poultry, fish, milk, eggs and cooked or uncooked leftovers.

There are very few exceptions to these rules. Canned food items that have come in contact with flood water but are not dented or otherwise damaged may be cleaned. To do so, get rid of the labels, rinse the cans, and dip them in a solution of one cup of bleach diluted in five gallons of clean water.

While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed and only open when necessary. This is to prevent the cold from escaping and keep the food fresh longer. Add block ice or dry ice to the refrigerator if possible.
Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for fire and water damage cleanups. To learn more about water damage cleanup and water extraction, visit RestorationSOS.com