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Safe Sheltering In Your Home

Last Updated: October 05, 2011

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During and immediately after a disaster, any household item that can move, fall, break or cause a fire becomes a home hazard.

You should inspect your home to find and correct potential hazards before disaster strikes. To begin, here are some suggestions:

Check Your Utilities

Know where your main electric fuse or circuit-breaker box is located and how to shut it off safely.
Know where your main water and natural gas shut-off valves are located and how to shut them off safely.

Identify Electrical and Chemical Hazards

Replace frayed or cracked extension and appliance cords, loose prongs and plugs.
Avoid overloading outlets.
Be sure all extension cords are rated for the electrical load and the cord is as short as possible.
Repair or replace appliances that overheat, short out, smoke or spark.
Properly store flammable liquids in well ventilated areas and in original and safety containers.
Move flammable items away from heat sources, gas appliances and open flames.

Use Safety Equipment

Install at least one smoke detector on each level of your home.
Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector if you have combustion appliances.
Have a fire extinguisher (ABC-type) available for use.

Secure Loose and Heavy Items

Check for items that can shift or fall.
Anchor your water heater, large appliances, bookcases, tall or heavy furniture, shelves, mirrors and pictures to wall studs.
Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
Provide strong support and flexible connections on gas appliances, including the water heater.

Practice Home Evacuation Plans

Plan how to escape from your home in case of an emergency.
Identify at least two exits from each room.
Conduct emergency drills.
Practice day and night escapes, and pick a safe meeting place outside your home.

Additional Resources

Make Your Home Safe Before a Disaster: www.cals.ncsu.edu/agcomm/writing/disaster/safe.htm
Looking for a Home? Take the Opportunity to Make Your Home Safe for You and Your Family: www2.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared/looking.pdf

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