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Winter
Storms Fire Safety Factsheet
A wide range of
natural disasters occurs within the United States every year. Natural
disasters can have a devastating effect on you and your home. The Federal
Emergency Management Agency's U.S. Fire Administration encourages you
to use the following safety tips to help protect yourself, your family
and your home from the potential threat of fire during or after a winter
storm. You can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a fire casualty
by being able to identify potential hazards and following the outlined
safety tips.
Some Types of Fire Related Hazards Present During and After A
Winter Storm
- Alternative heating
devices used incorrectly create fire hazards.
- Damaged or downed
utility lines can present a fire and life safety hazard.
- Water damaged
appliances and utilities can be electrically charged.
- Frozen water
pipes can burst and cause safety hazards.
- Leaking gas lines,
damaged or leaking gas propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks
may explode or ignite.
- Generators are
often used during power outages. Generators that are not properly used
and maintained can be very hazardous.
Chemical Safety
- Look for combustible
liquids like gasoline, lighter fluid, and paint thinner that may have
spilled. Thoroughly clean the spill and place containers in a well-ventilated
area.
- Keep combustible
liquids away from heat sources.
Electrical Safety
- If your home
has sustained flood or water damage, and you can safely get to the main
breaker or fuse box, turn off the power.
- Assume all wires
on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
- Look for and
replace frayed or cracked extension and appliance cords, loose prongs,
and plugs.
- Exposed outlets
and wiring could present a fire and life safety hazard.
- Appliances that
emit smoke or sparks should be repaired or replaced.
- Have a licensed
electrician check your home for damage.
Gas Safety
- Smell and listen
for leaky gas connections. If you believe there is a gas leak, immediately
leave the house and leave the door(s) open.
- Never strike
a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion.
- Before turning
the gas back on, have the gas system checked by a professional.
Generator Safety
- Follow the manufacturer's
instructions and guidelines when using generators.
- Use a generator
or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. CO fumes are odorless
and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
- Use the appropriate
sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords
can overheat and cause fires.
- Never run cords
under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord
may go unnoticed.
- Never connect
generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse
flow of electricity or 'backfeed' can electrocute an unsuspecting utility
worker.
Heating Safety
- Kerosene heaters
may not be legal in your area and should only be used where approved
by authorities.
- Do not use the
kitchen oven range to heat your home. In addition to being a fire hazard,
it can be a source of toxic fumes.
- Alternative heaters
need their space. Keep anything combustible at least 3 feet away.
- Make sure your
alternative heaters have 'tip switches.' These 'tip switches' are designed
to automatically turn off the heater in the event they tip over.
- Only use the
type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer and follow suggested guidelines.
- Never refill
a space heater while it is operating or still hot.
- Refuel heaters
only outdoors.
- Make sure wood
stoves are properly installed, and at least 3 feet away from combustible
materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation.
- Use a glass or
metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting
nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible items.
And Remember...
- Be careful when
using candles. Keep the flame away from combustible objects and out
of the reach of children.
- Some smoke alarms
may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative
during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up
battery and install a new battery at least once a year.
- Smoke alarms
should be installed on every level of your home.
- All smoke alarms
should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new
ones at least once a year.
- If there is a
fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of debris for easy access
by the fire department.
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