British Gas is advising households and customers to stock up on bags of ice this week as the risk of thunderstorms looms. The energy provider is suggesting some tips to help keep fridges and freezers cool during a power outage. One of the suggestions is to buy packaged or dry ice to fill up freezer drawers and to keep fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible. They also recommend consolidating foods in the same drawer to keep each other cool and to stand meat and poultry items on a tray to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods if they thaw.
Once the power is restored, it is important to discard any perishable items that have been above 4°C for two hours or more. British Gas also advises buying appliance thermometers for both the fridge and freezer to ensure they stay within safe temperature ranges during a power cut (-18°C for freezers and 4°C for fridges). Additionally, keeping some bagged or dry ice at home and freezing leftovers like milk, meat, and poultry can help food last longer in case of a power outage.
The warning comes as storms are expected across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and much of northern England, with the possibility of “spray and sudden flooding” leading to difficult driving conditions. There is also a chance that communities could be temporarily isolated by flooded roads, and power cuts may disrupt homes and businesses. Public transport services, such as trains, could experience delays and cancellations if lightning strikes occur.
It is crucial to be prepared for the potential impact of the upcoming weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to safeguard food and stay safe during the heatwave. By following the advice provided by British Gas, households can minimize the risk of food spoilage and ensure that essential appliances remain functional in the event of a power outage. Stay informed about weather updates and be ready to take action to protect yourself and your property from any potential hazards that may arise.