A power cut does not mean you have to throw away everything in the fridge. A few simple habits help keep food cold and safe for longer.

Keep the doors closed

The most important tip: keep the fridge and freezer doors shut as much as possible. Every time you open them, cold air escapes. A full freezer stays frozen much longer than a half-empty one, often for a day or more if the door stays closed.

Plan meals that need no cooking

Keep some food in the cupboard that does not need heating, such as bread, cereal, tinned fish, fruit and snacks. Fill a flask with hot water before a storm so you can still make tea, coffee or instant soup.

When the power comes back

• Check food that should be kept cold. If anything smells or looks wrong, throw it away.
• If frozen food has defrosted, follow the Food Standards Agency advice before refreezing or eating it.
• If in doubt, throw it out.

Never use a camping stove or barbecue indoors to cook, as they can give off dangerous carbon monoxide.

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