CINCINNATI -- When the power goes out, even a stocked kitchen can begin to feel a little barren. Without appliances, some foods can't be eaten.

After the power is restored, though, some of that food may no longer be safe to eat.

Before you pitch everything in your fridge and freezer, check out these tips from the CDC and the Cincinnati Health Department:

As a reminder, be sure to call Duke Energy to report your power outage so that they know where to restore power.

Here's a list of phone numbers and other helpful tips to stay safe when the power goes out.

If flooding also affects your area, the CDC warns people against consuming drinking water that may be unsafe.