SILVER SPRING, Md., Aug. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The
FDA reminds consumers to take precautions for storing water and
ensuring the safety of their food and medical supplies for
themselves and their pets during and after this week’s expected
hurricane-related rain, possible flooding and power outages.

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The agency also reminds consumers that it is important to have a
plan in place for emergency medication and medical supplies for
both people and animals. This is especially true for those with
health concerns, particularly if the power goes out.

In general, FDA encourages consumers to:

Food

• Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood
  water. If in doubt, throw it out.
• Do not eat food packed in plastic, paper, cardboard, cloth and
  similar containers that have been water-damaged.
• Discard food and beverage containers with screw-caps, snap
  lids, crimped caps (soda bottles), twist caps, flip tops and home
  canned foods, if they have come in contact with flood water. These
  containers cannot be disinfected.
• Check to ensure that the freezer temperature is at or below
  0 °F and the refrigerator is at or below 40
  °F.
• Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much
  as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
• For more information, see
  Hurricanes and Floods and
  Key Tips for Consumers About Food and Water Safety

Water

• Area health departments will determine whether local tap water
  can be used for drinking. If the water cannot be used or is
  questionabl

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