Blocked toilet or sink: what to try first
Stop the flow, use a plunger, and know when to call a plumber.
20 itemsStart
Fridge stopped working: what to save and what to bin
How long food lasts, what to throw away and what to check before you call for repair.
First few minutes (5)
- Note the time, and keep the doors shut
- Check the plug, the socket and the fuse or breaker
- Check the temperature dial was not knocked
- Pull out and listen: is the fan or compressor running?
- Has the power gone off in the rest of the home?
Keep food cold (5)
- A closed fridge keeps food safe for about 4 hours
- A full freezer holds about 48 hours, half full about 24, if kept shut
- Past 2-3 hours and no fix? Move food to a cool box with ice
- Ask a neighbour for shelf space
- Put a thermometer in if you have one: 4°C (40°F) or below is safe
Throw away (6)
- Meat, fish, eggs and cooked leftovers kept above 4°C for over 2 hours
- Milk, soft cheese and cream at the same temperature
- Cut fruit and salad, and opened ready meals
- Baby formula and breast milk that got warm
- Anything with a bad smell, colour or feel
- When in doubt, throw it out. Never taste to check
Usually fine (3)
- Hard cheese, butter, whole raw fruit and vegetables
- Unopened jam, pickles, mustard and ketchup
- Freezer food with ice crystals, or at 4°C or below, can be refrozen
Before calling for repair (6)
- Clean the door seal, and check it closes well
- Clear dust from the coils and vents, with the plug out
- Leave a gap around the fridge for air
- Unplug for 10 minutes and plug back in, once
- Find the model number and warranty before you call
- Ask for a repair price against a new one, based on the fridge's age
Afterwards (3)
- Wash shelves with warm soapy water, then wipe dry
- Wait until it reaches 4°C (40°F) before refilling
- Check your home insurance for food spoilage, and photograph what you bin
Written from www.foodsafety.gov
Similar
Carbon monoxide alarm went off: what to do
You cannot see or smell carbon monoxide. Get everyone out first, then call for help.
21 itemsStart
Fever at home: what to do and when to get help
Care for a high temperature at home, and know the signs that mean you should get help.
20 itemsStart
Food poisoning at home: what to do
Look after yourself or a child, stay hydrated, and know when it needs a doctor.
26 itemsStart
Gas smell at home: what to do
No flames, no switches, get air in, get out, and call the gas emergency line from outside.
21 itemsStart
Kitchen fire: what to do
Pan on fire, oven or microwave: what to do in the first seconds, and when to just get out.
25 itemsStart