Using Dry Ice for Short-Term Cold Storage During Emergency Situations

You can rely on dry ice to be the answer when you need short-term cold storage during emergency situations.

In emergency situations, power outages can quickly become a major concern for food preservation. Whether caused by severe weather, natural disasters, or infrastructure failures, losing access to refrigeration can lead to food spoilage and potential health risks. One effective solution for maintaining cold storage in the short term is using dry ice. This powerful cooling agent can help keep perishable items fresh until power is restored or alternative refrigeration methods become available.

What is Dry Ice?

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO2) and is much colder than regular ice, with a temperature of -109.3°F (-78.5°C). Unlike regular ice, it doesn’t melt into a liquid but instead sublimates directly into gas, making it an ideal option for temporary cold storage without the mess of melted water.

Benefits of Using Dry Ice for Cold Storage

• Extremely Cold Temperature: Dry ice can keep items frozen for extended periods, often outperforming regular ice.
• No Water Residue: Since dry ice sublimates into gas, it doesn’t create pools of water that could damage food packaging or other stored items.
• Compact and Efficient: A small amount of dry ice can provide significant cooling power, making it a practical option for emergency situations.
• Widely Available: Many grocery stores and specialty suppliers stock dry ice, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or other natural disasters.

How to Use Dry Ice in Emergency Cold Storage

To maximize the effectiveness of dry ice during a power outage, follow these steps:

1. Acquire the Right Amount: As a general rule, use 10 to 20 pounds of dry ice for every 24-hour period per 50-quart cooler. For large refrigerators or freezers, you may need 25 to 50 pounds.
2. Proper Placement: In a refrigerator, place dry ice on the top shelf since cold air sinks. In a freezer, place it at the bottom for optimal cooling.
3. Use Insulated Coolers: If transferring food to coolers, line them with dry ice to maintain a cold environment.
4. Limit Opening Doors: The more frequently you open your fridge, freezer, or cooler, the faster cold air escapes. Keep openings to a minimum.
5. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Dry ice produces carbon dioxide gas as it sublimates. Store it in a well-ventilated area to prevent CO2 buildup, which can be dangerous in confined spaces.
6. Handle with Care: Always wear gloves or use tongs when handling dry ice to prevent frostbite.

Safety Precautions

While dry ice is highly effective, it must be handled with care:

• Avoid direct skin contact: Dry ice can cause severe burns due to its extreme cold.
• Never store in an airtight container: As dry ice sublimates, it releases gas, which can cause sealed containers to burst.
• Use in a ventilated space: Excess CO2 buildup in enclosed areas can lead to suffocation risks.

Dry Ice For All Your Needs

Dry Ice Corp is the largest regional supplier of dry ice and related products in the Northeastern United States. Our ice is fresh and delivered right to your doorstep. We are happy to help you determine the best way to ship your goods, whether you have a huge amount of cookies or a single pie, and help you select the perfect amount of dry ice for the job. Give us a call at (201) 767-3200 or contact us online for a quote. To connect with us online, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.