Tornado Safety and Preparedness

Is It Still Good? Expiration Dates for Everything in Your Home That Needs to Be Replaced

No matter what time of year it is, there's always a chance that the next storm is right around the corner, and no one wants to get caught off guard.

(MORE: Basic Instinct: The First Thing to Do in Every Disaster)

In addition to the myriad things you want to do to prep for a storm -- whether it be a flood, tornado, hurricane or blizzard --you don't want to be caught with expired food or dead batteries you could have sworn you never opened. The reality is, you don't know how long you'll need these supplies to last for, and equipping yourself with the knowledge of expiration dates from experts at the United States Department of Agriculture and FoodSafety.gov will allow you to be prepared for a storm without really preparing.

These expiration dates are meant to be used as a guideline. Foods and other goods will last through these expiration dates if handled and stored properly. The USDA says if the foods are perishable, "take the food home immediately after purchase and refrigerate it promptly. Freeze it if you can't use it within the times recommended."

(MORE: Ravaged By Winter Weather? How to Prep Your Home for Spring)

From food items like coffee grounds and pasta to essential bath items like bar soap and deoderant, use this guide to help stock your home with everything you'll need when severe weather hits.

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