CHECK YOUR HOME AND PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM HAZARDS BEFORE THEY BECOME AN EMERGENCY

GENERAL HOME HAZARDS

• Have emergency numbers next to every phone.
• Install smoke detectors on every floor and inside or near every bedroom. Test monthly.
• Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors on every floor. Test monthly.
• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every six months.
• Make sure dangerous products and cleaners are labeled and stored separately from food, beverages and medicine.
• Secure rugs and carpets to the stairs or remove them.
• Be sure stairways, porches, and walkways are lit.
• Be sure house number is clearly visible from the street, day and night.
• Make sure automatic garage door opener has an auto-reverse feature to prevent injuries.

EARTHQUAKE HAZARDS

• Secure entertainment centers, cabinets, book cases, refrigerators, freezers, free standing flat screen TV’s, and tall bookshelves to wall studs with “L” shaped brackets or furniture safety straps.
• Secure items on shelves to prevent toppling.
• Use earthquake picture wall hangers for large, heavy, hanging pictures.
• Remove objects from above beds.
• Place heavier items on lower shelves and lighter items above.
• Secure food storage, glass canning jars, books, paint, cleaning supplies, etc. with rope, boards or other bracing in front of shelves to prevent falling.
• Install cupboard locks to prevent doors from swinging open and contents falling out.
• If necessary, consult a trusted contractor regarding structural reinforcement.

FIRE HAZARDS

• Keep fire extinguishers in or near utility room, kitchen, laundry room, garage, and any other room that contains a major heat source. Know how to operate properly.
• Have all HVAC systems, flue pipes, vents, and chimneys inspected and cleaned yearly.
• Keep curtains, potholders or other combustibles away from cooking ranges or other heat sources.
• Keep the stove, oven, and broiler clean of grease.
• Only store fuels like gasoline, kerosene, and propane in an out building away from the home.