Where to Find Dry Ice

When residents were out of power for several days during Hurricane Irene, many turned to dry ice to help keep their refrigerators cold.

Baltimore Gas and Electric says some residents can expect to be out of power for as long as a week following . So many in the Baltimore area will need to stock up.

Baltimore Gas and Electric stopped providing dry ice to residents in 2003.

Here's contact info for a few area stores that offer dry ice, according to a list provided by Baltimore County shortly after Hurricane Irene.

• Capital Carbonic. Sells dry ice only, available to the general public, 410-566-0853, 404 South Caton Ave., Baltimore, MD 21229
• AAA Ice. Sells wet & dry ice, available to the general public. 410-426-1204, 6100 Belair Rd., Baltimore, MD 21206.
• Airgas East. Sells dry ice only, available to the general public 410-768-4447, 7504 Connelly Drive, Hanover, MD 21076.

Some hardware stores may also offer dry ice. Be sure to call ahead.

AAA Ice's website offers some tips on how to handle and use dry ice. Always use gloves and keep in mind its shelf life—only 24 to 36 hours. Be sure to keep it away from kids and pets.

What other tips do you have for dealing with the heat and power outages? Tell us in the comments.