HEALTH WARNING: IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT

Hunter New England Health has issued a reminder to people without power, to throw out all food that has been unrefrigerated.

Public health physician, Tony Merritt, says when power to the fridge has been off for more than four hours, perishable food will spoil and can cause serious illness.

“Any food that was in the freezer and has now thawed needs to be consumed within 24 hours or thrown out. Never refreeze frozen foods that have thawed,” he said.

Hunter New England Health is also warning residents to steer clear of flood water, which may be contaminated.