flooded street Severe weather events and natural disasters — from storm-induced power outages to flooding — can cause a variety of challenges in and around your home. From protecting your family’s food supply to preserving your home and landscape, the information below can help residents prepare for and respond to the impacts of both short- and long-term disruptions to their homes and property.

If you have questions about food safety during an emergency, call the MSU Extension Food Safety Consumer Hotline at 1-877-643-9882.

Food Safety Resources

Keep or toss? How long food lasts in the freezer during a power outage

Published on September 10, 2024
Food safety is a major concern for food kept in the freezer during a power outage.
Food safety emergency preparedness for families

Published on March 5, 2021
Disasters and emergencies can happen anytime. Be prepared with safe food and water.
Don’t open the freezer if the power is out

Published on July 31, 2018
Each time you open the freezer door while the power is, you increase the interior temperature and decreases the time foods will hold safely without power.
Food safety issues to consider after a flood

Published on February 23, 2018
Flood waters have invaded the house. As the water recedes, the real clean-up work begins.
Clean drinking water is essential to life

Published on November 16, 2017
It is important to view your water source as a valuable link to health and safety.