Why Coloradans Should Be Keeping A Quarter In Their Freezer

Here comes a handy life hack for Colorado's winter season that you can share with friends and family. If winter storms and high winds sometimes cause power outages where you live, this trick can come in handy.

If you are on vacation or away from the house when the power goes out, how can you be sure the food in your freezer is still safe to eat? The last thing you want is to eat food that thawed, spoiled, and froze again when the power restored.

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The Quarter in the Freezer Trick

Fill a simple coffee cup with water and place it in the freezer. Once the water is frozen, find a shiny Colorado quarter and place it on top of the cup. Leave the cup in the corner of the freezer so nothing can knock it over.

Did My Frozen Food Thaw Then Refreeze?

The next time you suspect the power went out and want to know if you need to throw out the food in your freezer, just check the cup. If the quarter is still on the top of the ice, you're good. If the quarter sank to the middle or the bottom of the cup, that means the food inside the freezer probably defrosted and may no longer be safe to eat.

Colorado Freezer Insurance

In case you are wondering, Colorado's quarter features the Great Sand Dunes National Park on the back. While there are several in circulation, any quarter will do. This is especially helpful if you have an extra freezer in the basement or out in the garage. Try it this winter and share this trick with a friend.