Prepare to Respond to Power Outages as a Child Care Provider
Child care facilities should follow their emergency preparedness plans and follow the steps below if power is lost.
Food and Refrigeration
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Cold food must stay at 41°F or below.
- Consider having extra bags of ice on hand to place around refrigerated food to help keep items cold longer after power is lost.
- Discard potentially hazardous food that has been out of temperature (above 41°F for cold food or below 135°F for hot food) for four hours or more.
- If the length of time without power is unknown, discard any food that is out of temperature.
- Stop cooking or hot-holding food if equipment is not working or safe temperatures cannot be maintained.
- Avoid preparing foods that require cooling.
- Sanitize dishes in a three-compartment sink if hot water is available or use single-service items if dish machines are not working.
Medication
- Have a plan for medications that require refrigeration.
- Keep extra ice packs and a cooler available in case medication needs to be kept cold.
Lighting, Building, and Equipment
- Make sure there is enough light to operate safely. Open window shades during daylight hours and keep battery-powered lighting available.
- Maintain safe indoor temperatures, including 68°F or warmer in infant rooms.
- If using generators, keep them outside and away from windows, doors, and air intakes. Never use generators or gasoline-powered equipment indoors.
Handwashing
- Ensure handwashing can still be done properly and at required times.
If your facility has been without power for more than 2 hours, please contact Boulder County Public Health at HealthCHP@bouldercounty.gov.
