Washington County Sheriff - Home Safety Articles

 

These articles contain articles on safety, health and safety tips and information to keep you and your family safe at home. There is always a safe way to do things and we offer tips on how to avoid common problems and safety risks. For a list of all archived articles visit our Archived Articles List


Cleaners, Locks, Fires, Floods and More

10 Ways to Prevent Home Fires

  1. Kitchen Safety – Never leave a cooking pot or pan alone. Keep your cooking areas clean and not cluttered. Don’t cook when you’re sleepy or drowsy.
  2. Space Heaters - Keep all space heaters at least three (3) feet away from anything that can burn.
  3. Smoking – Never smoke in bed or when you’re sleepy. Use large ashtrays that won’t tip over. Soak butts and ashes before you dump them in a wastebasket.
  4. Matches and Lighters – Store matches and lighters locked up and high away from children.
  5. Electricity – Keep electrical cords out of walking areas and don’t risk breaking the wires by pinching them behind furniture or stretching them around corners.
  6. Candles – Keep candles away from anything that can burn. Put them out when you leave the room or go to sleep. Use a stable candle holder that cannot catch on fire.
  7. Appliances - Make sure protective water heater combustion chamber covers are in place. Pull the back service panel from the dryer cabinet and clean all the lint from the interior and around the drum. Clean built-up lint from the vent line. Replace vinyl vent lines with smooth-walled metal ducts. Mark a “combustible-free” zone 3 ft. away from your water heater with masking tape.
  8. Install Smoke Alarms – Put them on every floor of your home and near or inside all sleeping areas. Make sure everyone knows the sound of the alarm.
  9. Test the Alarm – Tests alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year, or sooner if the alarm ‘chirp’ tells you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more that 10 years old.
  10. Plan Your Escape – Make a home fire escape plan and hold fire drills at least twice a year. Make sure everyone in your house knows what to do in a fire emergency.

The three major causes of fires in the home are cooking, heating equipment and careless smoking. Each year home fires cause thousands of deaths and injuries, and millions of dollars in property loss. Most of these home fires can be prevented. It’s important to do everything you can to stop fires before they start.

 

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BEFORE, DURING & AFTER A FLOOD

Before a Flood
What would you do if your property were flooded? Are you prepared?

Even if you feel you live in a community with a low risk of flooding, remember that anywhere it rains, it can flood.  Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, doesn't mean you won't in the future.  Flood risk isn't just based on history; it's also based on a number of factors including rainfall , topography, flood-control measures, river-flow and tidal-surge data, and changes due to new construction and development.

Flood-hazard maps have been created to show the flood risk for your community, which helps determine the type of flood insurance coverage you will need since standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding.  The lower the degree of risk, the lower the flood insurance premium.

In addition to having flood insurance, knowing following flood hazard terms will help you recognize and prepare for a flood.

To prepare for a flood, you should:

  • Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
  • Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
  • Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
  • Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
  • If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.

During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

  • Listen to the radio or television for information.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

  • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
  • Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.

After the Flood
Your home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead:

  • Use local alerts and warning systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
  • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
  • Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
  • Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.
  • If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded.
    • Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
    • Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it's also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
  • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

 

Article from: http://www.ready.gov/floods

 

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CLEAN YOUR HOME SAFELY

Be smart about using household products!  Be smart when you use, store, and dispose of household products.

Did you know that the products you use for cleaning, carpentry, auto repair and gardening can contain ingredients that can harm you, your family and your environment?

These products may harm your children and pets, cause physical injury to sanitation workers if put out for regular trash pick-up, and contaminate septic tanks or pollute the ground water if poured down drains and toilets.
Here’s what you can do to safeguard your family, your home and your community.

READ the Label
Before you buy, always check the product labels. Look for labeling that reads “DANGER,” “WARNING,” “CAUTION,” “TOXIC,” “CORROSIVE,” “FLAMMABLE,” or “POISON.” These warnings tell you if the product is harmful to you, your family and the environment, and how to use, store and dispose of it safely.

Pay close attention to the labels on:

  • Drain Openers
  • Oven Cleaners
  • Automotive Oil and Fuel Additives
  • Paint Thinners, Strippers and Removers
  • Grease and Rust Removers
  • Glues
  • Bug and Weed Killers
  • Mold and Mildew Removers

KEEP products in their original containers and store them safely away from children and pets.

DISPOSE of household products safely
Many communities hold special collection days or have special drop-off sites for harmful household products.

For everyday tasks, try household products that are less harmful. Remember to follow the same rules about storing these products and never mix these products together.

  • Glass Cleaner: Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice in 1 quart of water.
  • Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Use a toilet brush and baking soda or vinegar. Note: these clean but do not disinfect.
  • Furniture Polish: Mix 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in 1 pint of vegetable oil.
  • Rug Deodorizer: Sprinkle liberally with baking soda and vacuum after 15 minutes.
  • Plant Spray: Wipe leaves with mild soap and water and rinse.
  • Mothballs: Use cedar chips, lavender flowers, rosemary, mint, or white peppercorns.

Never…

  • Pour harmful household products down a sink, toilet or bathtub drain unless the products are made for that purpose
  • Pour products like used oil or bug killer on the ground or into storm drains
  • Store leftover products in food or beverage containers

 

 

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CLOSE THE DOOR ON CRIME

Burglars spot open garage doors and remove visible items in a matter of seconds. In many instances, the home owners are home and even outside when the burglary takes place.

Typical items taken are:

  • Tools
  • Lawn equipment
  • Sporting equipment
  • Or other valuables left inside vehicles parked in the garage.

If you notice your neighbors garage door open, please be a good neighbor and remind them of the importance of keeping their garage doors closed! Neighbors looking out for one another is the single most effective crime prevention tool.

When a police officer or deputy on patrol notices your garage door open and unattended, we may call your residence and ask for you to close it, for security reasons. Many of these requests are made during evening hours, when opportunistic criminal activity occurs most often.

If you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood call your local law enforcement agency or 9-1-1 immediately for crimes in progress.

 

 

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CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Every 15 minutes someone in Wisconsin is robbed. More than 30,000 home robberies occur every year.  With each break-in, valuables are lost and lives are disrupted.  Many victims will never feel safe in their homes again.  Serious break-ins may involve violence and even murder.  Most thieves are looking for an "easy mark."  You can discourage thieves with a few simple actions.

Tips on Home Security

  • Light the outside of your home to make it more visible to your neighbors. Outside motion detector lights can make it almost impossible for a burglar to enter without being seen.
  • Trim bushes near doors to reduce hiding places for burglars.
  • Install dead-bolt locks on all outside doors. Make sure you can unlock all doors from the inside without a key to allow a quick escape from a fire.
  • Install peepholes in all outside doors.
  • Use "Operation Identification". Contact your local police to borrow an engraver to mark stereos, computers, cameras, lawnmowers and tools. In Wisconsin you should write "WI" followed by your driver’s license number (if you have one). Put Operation I.D. stickers (from the police) on windows near your front and back doors. These stickers tell burglars that your things will be hard to sell.
  • Don’t keep expensive jewelry, collectibles, or large amounts of cash in your home.
  • Keep a list of your valuables and their serial numbers. A videotape, photograph, or sales receipts will help with insurance claims.
  • Install locks on windows. All sliding doors should have "ventilation locks". Screens and storms should be latched on the inside. Include locks on garage and basement windows.
  • Don’t advertise your absence. Never leave a message on your answering machine that says you are away for a few days or on vacation. Before you leave, set timers so that lights, TVs, and radios go on and off. Have someone pick up the mail, pick up newspapers, set out trash, mow the lawn or shovel snow.
  • Close your garage door. An empty garage says you’re not at home. Thieves can easily steal bikes, lawnmowers, snow blowers and other valuables. Burglars can close the garage door and take their time breaking into your home.  
  • Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. Don’t store the title for your car in the glove compartment. You will need it to prove ownership if the car is stolen.
  • If possible, install a garage door opener with a light. A remote opener and a lighted garage will help you enter and leave your home safely. Test the door to make sure it reverses easily when it hits something.

Personal Protection

Any of us may be crime victims.  The most common crimes involve burglary and theft.  But reports of car jacking, child abductions, and assaults create fear among many Americans.
You can reduce your family’s risk by being aware and prepared.

Tips on Personal Safety  

  • Keep your doors locked at all times.
  • Never open your door to a stranger. Use your peephole to see who is at the door before you open it. Ask for identification before allowing a meter reader or repair person into your home.
  • Keep your car doors locked while you are driving and while the car is parked.
  • Don’t give your name, address, charge card number or Social Security number to an unknown caller. Never give your name or address on your message machine. Say something like: "I’m sorry we are unable to take your call now. Please leave a message at the tone."
  • Never surprise a burglar. If you see something that makes you think your home may have been robbed, do not go in. Go to a safe place and call the police. The burglar may still be around.
  • Don’t flash large amounts of cash or jewelry in public.
  • Be extra careful in areas with high crime rates, especially at night.
  • Tips to Protect Your Children from Crime:
    • Never leave small children alone in a public place. Have young children walk to school with a brother, sister or friend. Don’t allow young children to roam the neighborhood, trick or treat, or sell things door-to-door without an adult.
    • Tell children not to answer the door if they are alone.
    • Teach children telephone safety. Children who are alone should tell callers that their parents are unable to come to the telephone. Warn them not to give their name or address to an unknown caller.
    • Talk to children about crime and safety. Warn them not to talk to strangers. Remind them not to enter a car or home of a stranger.
    • Teach children how to use 911 or another emergency telephone number. Leave a number so that babysitters can reach someone in an emergency.
    • Teach children their home telephone number and address. Show them how to call home from a pay phone even without money.

Prepared by the
Wisconsin Dept of Health Services
Division of Public Health
Bureau of Environmental Health

http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/hometips/dhp/crime.htm

 

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FLOOD SAFETY LIST

Residents of flood hazard areas can take several steps to safeguard their families and property when flooding occurs. These actions are also advised for other residents traveling in the County during times of flooding.

Steps to Take During Flood Conditions

  • Heed flood warnings.
  • Do not walk through flowing water. It can knock you off your feet.
  • Do not drive through a flooded area. The road or bridge may be washed out. If your vehicle stalls in high water, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.
  • If possible, cut off electricity, water, and gas supply. Stay away from power lines and gas leaks. Electrical current can travel through water and lead to electrocution.
  • Be wary of animals, especially snakes. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours.

Steps to Take Before Flood Conditions Occur

1. Purchase flood insurance
Standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover a property for flood damage. If your property is located in a flood hazard area, you should purchase a separate insurance policy for flood damage. You may want to include your personal property in the insurance policy. The average flood insurance premium in 2004 was $458 a year. A maximum of $250,000 of building coverage is available for single-family residential buildings and $250,000 per unit for multi-family residences. The limit for content coverage on all residential buildings is $100,000, which is also available to renters. Commercial structures can be insured to a limit of $500,000 for the buildings and $500,000 for the contents. 
   
2.   Protect your property
Take steps in and around your home to safeguard against flooding. Elevate electrical panel boxes, furnaces, water heaters, and washer/dryers (or relocate to a location less likely to be flooded). Install sewer backup valves. Move furniture, TV, and other valuables to the upper floors of your home.
 
One way to keep water away is to regrade your lot, build a small floodwall or earthen berm, or sandbag. Another practical step is to raise the house above the flood levels. You may find more suggested ways to safeguard your property against floods at local libraries, or visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.
 
3.  Be aware of requirements for substantial improvements
A substantial improvement is construction of an addition, alteration, repair of damage, or reconstruction project that is valued at 50% or more of the existing building. When building an addition in a flood hazard area, only the addition must be protected (adequately and safely flood proofed, elevated, etc.) if the cumulative construction costs are less than 50% of the existing building value. If the cumulative construction costs exceed the existing building value, then the entire building must be protected.

4.   Be sure drainage systems are working
Maintenance of drainage systems is critical. Dumping of debris in ditches and streams can partially or completely obstruct the free flow of water. This can cause water to back up and overflow onto roads and yards.

 

 

Download this Flood Safety Check List

 

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FURNACE SAFETY TIPS

It’s only a few weeks until November and the average high is 46 degrees and the average low is 31 degrees.  If you haven’t done so already, you need to have your furnace checked.  Here are some safety tips for you to stay warm in the coming months.

If you live in a cold part of the United States, you probably use a furnace to stay warm during the cold winter months. Unfortunately, too many people are unaware of the precautions that they need to take to safely operate their furnaces year in and year out. In fact, the Illinois Department of Public Health estimates that more than 8,000 Americans annually require emergency treatment for injuries associated with furnaces.

To help you avoid problems, here are a few precautions that you should take when using your furnace:

  • Move all flammable materials a safe distance away from the furnace, including things like papers, sawdust, old rags, wood scraps and liquids such as gasoline and kerosene. As an extra precaution, since vapors from flammable liquids easily ignite, you should store these liquids in containers that are tightly sealed.
  • Change or clean your furnace filter every month during the winter, or more often if you run your furnace a lot, smoke or have pets.
  • Have a professional inspect your furnace every year to make sure it’s working well and getting enough fresh air. Ensuring your furnace gets enough air will prevent it from burning improperly, which can end up reducing the oxygen in your home to dangerously low level.
  • Have a professional inspect your chimney and flue at least once a year and have them cleaned if necessary. Carbon monoxide levels in your home can become dangerous if smoke can’t escape a clogged chimney or flue. Additionally, built-up soot, which is highly flammable, can easily ignite and can send a fireball of flame from your furnace into your house.
  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Make sure to periodically test the alarms and change the batteries every year or more often if needed.

Article written by: Illinois Department of Public Health, “Weathering Winter.”

http://www.sparkenergy.com/blog/2012/february/furnace-safety-tips/

 

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Get an Emergency Kit

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might take days. In addition, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

  • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
  • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid   http://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
  • Local maps
  • Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

  • Prescription medications and glasses
  • Infant formula and diapers
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
  • Cash or traveler's checks and change
  • Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov.
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  • Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
  • Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
  • Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
  • Paper and pencil
  • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency by visiting FoodSafety.gov

 

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HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST

Make your family safer, step-by-step

  • Sound the Alarm: Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. If already installed, test them! Tip: Replace the batteries every daylight-saving time change.
  • Avoid Overload: Check for overloaded extension cords – usage should not exceed the recommended wattage.
  • Don’t Get Tippy: If young children are in the home, bookshelves and other furniture should be firmly secured with wall brackets to prevent tipping.
  • Paint Safe: Check walls for loose paint. If re-painting, do so in a well-ventilated area and consider VOC-free paint.
  • Childproof, Childproof, Childproof: Check your local library or online for complete lists of childproofing suggestions and see our Virtual Home Safety Tour for more ideas. Areas of particular danger include outlets, appliances, electronics, stairs and windows.
  • Cover Outlets: Cover all unused outlets to prevent children from sticking a finger in the socket.
  • Watch Cord Placement: Extension cords should not be placed under rugs or heavy furniture, tacked up or coiled while in use.
  • Get Grounded: All major appliances should be grounded. Be sure to check your ground fault circuit interrupters regularly.
  • Plan Your Escape: Practice a fire escape plan with your family where you identify two exits for every room and what to do with young children.
  • Give Your Air Heater Some Space: All air heaters should be placed at least three feet from beds, curtains or anything flammable.
  • Keep Extinguishers Handy: Place all-purpose fire extinguishers in key locations in your home – the kitchen, bedroom and basement. Be sure to check expiration dates regularly and know how to use them safely.
  • Create a Safe Exit: In addition to alarms and extinguishers, consider an escape ladder if your home has two floors. Keep emergency numbers and contacts readily available by the phone.
  • Unplug Appliances: Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use and store them out of reach.
  • Go New in the Nursery: Check that all painted cribs, bassinettes and high chairs were made after 1978 to avoid potential lead paint poisoning.
  • Cool Your Jets: Set your water heater below 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid potential burns and to save energy.
  • Put Away Medications: Take medications and medical supplies out of your purse, pockets and drawers, and put them in a cabinet with a child safety lock.
  • Look for UL: The UL Mark appears on products that have been tested, verified and inspected for safety. Make sure to look for it to keep your holidays safe and bright

 


Home Security Checklist

How safe is your home?  There are 6 things to look at and review from spare keys, locking up, outdoor security to outdoor items and property.

Here is a convenient checklist from Real Simple

Electrical Cords and Outlets

  • Check for frayed wires. Repair or replace any loose or frayed wires on all electrical devices.
  • Follow the path of cords. No cords should run under rugs or across doorways.
  • Baby-proof. If you have any small children in your house, place plastic safety covers over unused outlets.
  • Rethink extension cords. Consider adding electrical outlets where you currently rely on extension cords.
  • Check for a faulty electrical system. Feel all outlets and plugs to see if any are warm; if so, have an electrician check them.
  • Don’t overload the system. Make sure that you’ve followed manufacturers’ directions about maximum wattage of lamp bulbs and outlet requirements for plugs.
  • And don’t overload any one outlet. Be certain that you have no more than one high-wattage appliance plugged into a single outlet.

Home Heating

  • Examine the outside vents. They should be properly sealed and clear of obstruction to prevent carbon monoxide buildup in the house. Recheck during and after a snowstorm.
  • Pick the right wood. If you use a fireplace or a woodstove, stock up on dry seasoned wood, which burns without producing a lot of creosote. A buildup of creosote—soot—in the chimney or flue can be dangerous, causing chimney fires.
  • Hire a chimney sweep. Have flues and chimneys inspected and cleaned by a professional annually.
  • Inspect wood-burning stoves twice monthly. Make sure the door latch closes properly. The room should have a working smoke detector. And never let a child use the stove unattended.
  • Inspect water heaters annually. The temperature should be set at no higher than 120 degrees to prevent burns. Never leave children alone near a water heater, and keep combustible and flammable materials well away from it.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors generously. These should be on each floor of the house, covering all sleeping areas.
  • Test alarms monthly. Replace any that don’t work. (In any case, alarms should be replaced every 10 years.)
  • Replace batteries annually. Or sooner, if the alarm chirps.
  • Clean all detectors. Vacuum each grille.
  • Post the fire department’s carbon-monoxide-reporting emergency number. If it differs from 911, keep the number by every phone.
  • Demonstrate the sound of each detector. Family members need to know the difference.

Fire Extinguishers

  • Place extinguishers strategically. Keep one in the kitchen and one on every floor. And learn how to use them.
  • Replace extinguishers when necessary. Follow the schedule suggested by the manufacturer, and always replace an extinguisher that appears damaged.
  • Consider installing a sprinkler system.

Escape Plans

  • Create an escape plan with two exit routes in case of fire. Practice it twice a year (once at night) with the whole family. For details, see the National Fire Protection Association’s website, nfpa.org.
  • Choose a meeting place. Set a plan for meeting up in case of a local or national disaster. See nfpa.org.
  • If you live in a two-story house, buy a rescue ladder. It should attach to an upper-level window casing to provide an alternate escape route.

Burglarproofing

  • Install a sturdy deadbolt lock on every door to the outside. This should include the door into the house from the garage.
  • In any room with window bars, make sure at least one has a quick-release mechanism. Replace or retrofit as needed.
  • Install motion-sensing floodlights in the backyard.
  • Keep your house looking lived-in when you’re away. Arrange for the lawn to be mowed, stop mail delivery, install timers for selected lights, leave a car in the driveway, and leave drapes or shades open at least a bit.
  • Advertise prominently any home security system you have installed. You might think about putting up signs even if you don’t have a system.
  • Examine your landscaping. Trim shrubs and trees near windows and doors that provide hiding places for burglars, and prune limbs that serve as ladders to upper windows.
  • Purchase a metal bar or a solid-wood dowel to insert in the tracking of sliding glass doors. This will prevent anyone from opening them.
  • Put your street number, not your name, on your mailbox.
  • Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or nearby friend. Thieves know all about fake rocks and other hide-a-key tricks.

You can find more and complete your own checklist at Real Simple.

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Lock It or Lose It

This is a program many law enforcement agencies throughout the U.S. have adopted to notify the public of common thefts.

The point that needs to be made is simple: take valuable possessions out of your vehicle or put them out-of-sight and the lock your vehicle.

The idea of living in a “safe” neighborhood is a myth.  There are no safe neighborhoods.  You are inviting a break-in if you leave your keys, money, iPhones, etc in plain sight in your vehicle.  It does not always matter if the vehicle is locked or not.  If it is something someone wants, they will find a way to get it. 

If you don’t regularly lock your vehicle, start now.  Many insurance companies will not pay for losses if it can be proven (no evidence of physical break-in) that your car was not locked when the theft occurred. 

Even on hot days, remember to have your windows closed, including your roof vents and lock your vehicle.  Any slight opening in a window is an invitation to a thief for easy pickings.

If you do see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call 9-1-1.  Try to get a good description of the person committing the crime.  Usually this would include their clothing, hair color, height, color or make of their vehicle and in which direction they left. 

The majority of crimes are those of opportunity.  Someone is walking by a car or home and they notice something of value.  If they also check further and find the vehicle or home is unlocked, it makes it even easier.

Don’t become a victim of crime.  Lock your windows and doors and keep your valuables.

 

 

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Make A Family Emergency Plan

Families can cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Create a family disaster plan including a communication plan, disaster supplies kit, and an evacuation plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.

  • Find out what could happen to you - Contact your American Red Cross chapter or local emergency management office — be prepared to take notes:
  • Ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen. Request information on how to prepare for each.
  • Learn about your community’s warning signals: what they sound like and what you should do when you hear them.
  • Ask about animal care after disaster. Animals other than service animals may not be allowed inside emergency shelters.
  • Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.
  • Next, find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children’s school or daycare center, and other places where your family spends time.
  • Create a disaster plan

Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather, and earthquakes to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.  Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case.

Pick two places to meet:

  • Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
  • Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. Everyone must know the address and phone number.

Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets.

Families should develop different methods for communicating during emergency situations and share their plans beforehand with all those who would be worried about their welfare. Options for remaining in contact with family and friends if a disaster strikes include:

  • Phone contact with a designated family member or friend who is unlikely to be affected by the same disaster.
  • Email notification via a family distribution list.
  • Registration on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Website.
  • Use of the toll-free Contact Loved Ones voice messaging service (1-866-78-CONTACT).
  • Use of the US Postal Service change of address forms when it becomes necessary to leave home for an extended period of time, thus ensuring that mail will be redirected to a current address.
  • Complete this checklist
  • Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
  • Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number for emergency help.
  • Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
  • Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
  • Show each family member how and when to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at the main switches.
  • Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
  • Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher, and show them where it’s kept.
  • Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
  • Conduct a home hazard hunt.
  • Stock emergency supplies and assemble a disaster supplies kit.
  • Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
  • Practice your plan
  • Test your smoke detectors monthly, and change the batteries at least once a year.
  • Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do.
  • Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
  • Replace stored water every three months and stored food every six months.
  • Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Article from: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/preparedness/plan/

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Spring Flooding

Before a Flood

What would you do if your property were flooded? Are you prepared?
Even if you feel you live in a community with a low risk of flooding, remember that anywhere it rains, it can flood.  Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, doesn't mean you won't in the future.  Flood risk isn't just based on history; it's also based on a number of factors including rainfall , topography, flood-control measures, river-flow and tidal-surge data, and changes due to new construction and development.

Flood-hazard maps have been created to show the flood risk for your community, which helps determine the type of flood insurance coverage you will need since standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding.  The lower the degree of risk, the lower the flood insurance premium.
In addition to having flood insurance, knowing following flood hazard terms will help you recognize and prepare for a flood.
To prepare for a flood, you should:

  • Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
  • Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
  • Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
  • Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
  • If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.

During a Flood

If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

  • Listen to the radio or television for information.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

  • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
  • Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.

After the Flood

Your home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead:

 

  • Use local alerts and warning systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
  • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
  • Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
  • Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.
  • If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded:
    • Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
    • Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it's also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
  • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

Article from: http://www.ready.gov/floods

 

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Tornado Safety Tips

Prevention and practice before the storm:

  • At home, have a family tornado plan in place, based on the kind of dwelling you live in and the safety tips below.
  • Know where you can take shelter in a matter of seconds, and practice a family tornado drill at least once a year.
  • Have a pre-determined place to meet after a disaster.
  • Flying debris is the greatest danger in tornadoes; so store protective coverings (e.g., mattress, sleeping bags, thick blankets, etc) in or next to your shelter space, ready to use on a few seconds' notice.
  • Turn on local TV, radio or NOAA Weather Radio and stay alert for warnings.

Know the signs of a tornado: Weather forecasting science is not perfect and some tornadoes do occur without a tornado warning. There is no substitute for staying alert to the sky. Besides an obviously visible tornado, here are some things to look and listen for:

  • Strong, persistent rotation in the cloud base.
  • Whirling dust or debris on the ground under a cloud base -- tornadoes sometimes have no funnel!
  • Hail or heavy rain followed by either dead calm or a fast, intense wind shift. Many tornadoes are wrapped in heavy precipitation and can't be seen.
  • Day or night - Loud, continuous roar or rumble, which doesn't fade in a few seconds like thunder.
  • Night - Small, bright, blue-green to white flashes at ground level near a thunderstorm (as opposed to silvery lightning up in the clouds). These mean power lines are being snapped by very strong wind, and maybe a tornado.
  • Night - Persistent lowering from the cloud base, illuminated or silhouetted by lightning -- especially if it is on the ground or there is a blue-green-white power flash underneath.

WHAT TO DO...

  • In a house with a basement: Avoid windows. Get in the basement and under some kind of sturdy protection (heavy table or work bench), or cover yourself with a mattress or sleeping bag. Know where very heavy objects rest on the floor above (pianos, refrigerators, waterbeds, etc.) and do not go under them. They may fall down through a weakened floor and crush you.
  • In a house with no basement, a dorm, or an apartment: Avoid windows. Go to the lowest floor, small center room (like a bathroom or closet), under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Crouch as low as possible to the floor, facing down; and cover your head with your hands. A bath tub may offer a shell of partial protection. Even in an interior room, you should cover yourself with some sort of thick padding (mattress, blankets, etc.), to protect against falling debris in case the roof and ceiling fail.
  • In an office building, hospital, nursing or home: Go directly to an enclosed, windowless area in the center of the building -- away from glass and on the lowest floor possible. Then, crouch down and cover your head. Interior stairwells are usually good places to take shelter, and if not crowded, allow you to get to a lower level quickly. Stay off the elevators; you could be trapped in them if the power is lost.
  • In a mobile home: Get out! Even if your home is tied down, you are probably safer outside, even if the only alternative is to seek shelter out in the open. Most tornadoes can destroy even tied-down mobile homes; and it is best not to play the low odds that yours will make it. If your community has a tornado shelter, go there fast. If there is a sturdy permanent building within easy running distance, seek shelter there. Otherwise, lie flat on low ground away from your home, protecting your head. If possible, use open ground away from trees and cars, which can be blown onto you.
  • At school: Follow the drill! Go to the interior hall or room in an orderly way as you are told. Crouch low, head down, and protect the back of your head with your arms. Stay away from windows and large open rooms like gyms and auditoriums.
  • In a car or truck: Vehicles are extremely dangerous in a tornado. If the tornado is visible, far away, and the traffic is light, you may be able to drive out of its path by moving at right angles to the tornado. Otherwise, park the car as quickly and safely as possible -- out of the traffic lanes. [It is safer to get the car out of mud later if necessary than to cause a crash.] Get out and seek shelter in a sturdy building. If in the open country, run to low ground away from any cars (which may roll over on you). Lie flat and face-down, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Avoid seeking shelter under bridges, which can create deadly traffic hazards while offering little protection against flying debris.
  • In the open outdoors: If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building. If not, lie flat and face-down on low ground, protecting the back of your head with your arms. Get as far away from trees and cars as you can; they may be blown onto you in a tornado.
  • In a shopping mall or large store: Do not panic. Watch for others. Move as quickly as possible to an interior bathroom, storage room or other small enclosed area, away from windows.
  • In a church or theater: Do not panic. If possible, move quickly but orderly to an interior bathroom or hallway, away from windows. Crouch face-down and protect your head with your arms. If there is no time to do that, get under the seats or pews, protecting your head with your arms or hands.

AFTER THE TORNADO...
Keep your family together and wait for emergency personnel to arrive. Carefully render aid to those who are injured. Stay away from power lines and puddles with wires in them; they may still be carrying electricity! Watch your step to avoid broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects. Stay out of any heavily damaged houses or buildings; they could collapse at any time. Do not use matches or lighters, in case of leaking natural gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby. Remain calm and alert, and listen for information and instructions from emergency crews or local officials.

 

Article from: http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/safety.html

 

 

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Winter Thaw and Flooding

Every region in the United States is at risk for winter flooding. Many people are focused primarily on ice and snow this time of year, but it is important to also consider winter flood risks. Ice Jams Long cold spells can cause the surface of rivers to freeze, leading to ice jams. When a rise in the water level or a thaw breaks the ice into large chunks, these chunks can become jammed at man-made and natural obstructions, resulting in severe flooding.

Snowmelt
A mid-winter thaw can produce large amounts of runoff in a short period of time. Because the ground is hard and frozen, water cannot be reabsorbed. The water then runs off the surface and flows into lakes, streams, and rivers, causing excess water to spill over their banks.

Spring Thaw
During the spring, frozen land prevents melting snow or rainfall from seeping into the ground. Each cubic foot of compacted snow contains gallons of water and once the snow melts, it can result in the overflow of streams, rivers and lakes. Add spring storms to that and the result is often serious, spring flooding.

Coastal flooding
Winds generated from winter storms can cause widespread tidal flooding and severe beach erosion along coastal areas. For example, in the Great Lakes, winter storms can bring strong winds that push water levels up at one end of the lake, causing a storm surge. As the water levels return to normal, a pendulum effect takes place causing high water levels on alternating sides of the lake until a balance returns.

Preparing for a Flood
Residents and business owners need to prepare in advance for flood conditions. Before the threat of flooding becomes imminent, residents and business owners should:

  • Purchase a flood insurance policy if they do not already have one.
  • Review their current insurance policy and become familiar with what is covered and ensure the limits adequately protect their building and personal belongings.
  • Make an emergency kit, plan evacuation routes, and keep important papers in a safe, waterproof place. Itemize and take pictures of possessions.

Article from FloodSmart

 

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