Make sure your house is as safe as possible by following these few simple guidelines.
Install smoke detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every six months. Smoke detectors should be installed within 15 feet of all bedrooms (state law).
The detector should be placed so it will be easily heard in all sleeping areas and should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.
Keep hallways and exits clear for easy evacuation.
Keep an ABC type fire extinguisher accessible. Make sure you know how and when to use it.
Store flammable or highly reactive chemicals securely and separately from each other in cabinets or on lower shelves.
Know how and when to switch off your
Keep utility company emergency phone numbers in one place near the telephone.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home and change batteries every six months. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed within 15 feet of all bedrooms (state law).
The carbon monoxide detector should be placed so it will be easily heard in all sleeping areas and should be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.
Have a set place for storing your
Emergency Supply Kit and a
Have a weather radio and extra batteries in your home.
Establish the safest places in your home in case of tornado (basement or small interior room or hallway) or earthquake (under sturdy table, desk, or against inside walls).
If your home is susceptible to flooding: elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel; install check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into your home;
construct barriers (levees, beams, sandbags, or floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your home; and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
To prepare for an earthquake: secure heavy furniture, hanging plants, heavy pictures, and mirrors, especially those hanging over beds; secure water heaters and appliances
that could move enough to rupture lines; and keep breakable and heavy items on lower shelves.
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