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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 summer 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.
Fire-Related Hazards Present During and After a Summer Storm:
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Lightning associated with thunderstorms generates a variety of fire hazards. The power of lightning's electrical charge and intense heat can electrocute on contact, splitting trees and causing fires. |
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Pools of water and even appliances can be electrically charged. |
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Appliances that have been exposed to water can short and become a fire hazard. |
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Generators are often used during power outages. Generators that are not properly used and maintained can be very hazardous. |
Electrical Safety
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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. |
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Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds. |
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Be aware of and avoid downed utility lines. Report downed or damaged power lines to the utility company or emergency services. |
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Remove standing water, wet carpets and furnishings. Air dry your home with good ventilation before restoring power. |
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Have a licensed electrician check your home for damage. |
Gas Safety
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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. |
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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
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Follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when using generators. |
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Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors. |
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Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires. |
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Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed. |
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Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or "backfeed" can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker. |
And Remember...
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Be careful when using candles. Keep the flame away from combustible objects and out of the reach of children. |
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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. |
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Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home. |
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All smoke alarms should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new ones at least once a year. |
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If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of debris for easy access by the fire department. |
FEMA - United States Fire Administration
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