Keep food in the driest and coolest spot in the house — a dark area if possible.

• Keep food covered at all times.
  
  
• Open food boxes or cans carefully so that you can close them tightly after each use.
  
  
• Wrap cookies and crackers in plastic bags, keep them in tight containers to stop them from going stale and prolong shelf life.
  
  
• Empty opened packages of sugar, dried fruits and nuts into screw-top jars or airtight cans to protect them from pests.
  
  
• Inspect all food containers for signs of spoilage before use.
  
  
• If you lose power, minimize waste by using the food in your fridge first, then the freezer and then finally your non-perishable items.
  

Energy Sources

• Buy extra provisions of candles, paraffin lamps, batteries, etc., as electricity may not be available.
  
  
• Consider how you might prepare foods without electricity or gas.
  
  
• Purchase a hand-crank radio/flashlight.
  
  
• Consider purchasing a telephone that can be connected directly to the phone line and does not require another energy source.