5 Things to Know Before Using Dry Ice in a Cooler

Dry ice is -109°F and freezes anything it touches directly Place a layer of cardboard or paper between dry ice and food or drinks. Cans and glass bottles can burst if they freeze solid.

The cooler must be vented Dry ice turns into CO2 gas. In an airtight cooler, pressure can build up and blow the lid off. If your cooler has a gasket, crack the latch slightly.

Never handle dry ice with bare skin Use thick gloves or tongs. Dry ice causes frostbite almost instantly on contact with skin.

Do not store dry ice in a sealed car trunk or small room CO2 is heavier than air and can displace oxygen. A moving car with cracked windows is fine, but a closed closet is dangerous.

Dry ice lasts much longer than regular ice and leaves no water mess It is ideal for camping trips or shipping frozen food, but requires planning and caution.