In the event of a disaster, everyday objects in your home can cause serious injury and damage. There are some simple steps that you can take to help make your home safer in these situations. We recommend going room to room and identifying these potential hazards. These may include a bookshelf that could tip over and block a much needed emergency exits or making sure there is a way to escape a from a second story window. Below is a list of precautions that could help you in these situations.
- Storing heavy items on the lowest shelves
- Make sure hallways and exits are always clear for easy escape
- Keep approved fire extinguishers on each level of your home. Train your family members on how and when to use them
- When possible, keep beds away from windows
- Install smoke detectors on every level of your home. Test the detectors annually and change the batteries every six months
- Store all flammable a reactive chemicals securely and separate from each other. Examples include: bleach and ammonia, solvents, and any considered reactive or flammable.
- Secure your water heater, and other gas appliances, with straps. Make sure to install a flexible gas supply line.
- Know the location and proper shut-off procedure for all utilities (gas, water, electricity).
- Ensure that all window locks can be easily removed from the inside.
- Make sure all wall hangings (windows, pictures) are properly mounted with appropriate load bearing support.
