Power Outages and Childcare Facilities

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.

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.

Have a plan for medications that require refrigeration.
Keep extra ice packs and a cooler available in case medication needs to be kept cold.

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.

If your facility has been without power for more than 2 hours, please contact Boulder County Public Health at HealthCHP@bouldercounty.gov.