(Danville, Va.) – Residents who have been without power since Sunday night’s storm are urged to follow the rule: “When in doubt, throw it out” in reference to perishable food items in their refrigerators and freezers.

Dr. Spillmann, Health Director of the Pittsylvania-Danville Health District, says “The longer that food is stored at unsafe temperatures – above 41 degrees Fahrenheit – the higher the chance for dangerous bacteria to multiply and make you sick.”

Most bacteria cannot be detected by taste, odor or appearance.

If the refrigerator has been without power for more than four hours, the food inside could be dangerous. Keep the door to the refrigerator closed as much as possible during the power outage.

A full freezer, however, will hold food safely for 48 hours.

For more information, contact the Pittsylvania-Danville Health District at 434-433-3544 or 434-433-3550.