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Summer
Storm Fire Safety
DURING
OR AFTER A DISASTER: SUMMER STORMS: Fire Safety Factsheet
A wide range of natural disasters occurs within the United
States every year. Natural disasters can have a devastating effect on
you and your home. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s U.S.
Fire Administration encourages you to use the following safety tips to
help protect yourself, your family and your home from the potential threat
of fire during or after a summer storm. You can greatly reduce your chances
of becoming a fire casualty by being able to identify potential hazards
and following the outlined safety tips.
SOME TYPES OF FIRE
RELATED HAZARDS PRESENT DURING AND AFTER A SUMMER STORM
- Lightning associated with thunderstorms generates
a variety of fire hazards. The power of lightning's electrical charge
and intense heat can electrocute on contact, splitting trees and causing
fires.
- Pools of water and even appliances can be electrically
charged.
- Appliances that have been exposed to water can short
and become a fire hazard.
- Generators are often used during power outages.
- Generators that are not properly used and maintained
can be very hazardous.
CHEMICAL SAFETY
- Look for combustible liquids like gasoline, lighter
fluid, and paint thinner that may have spilled. Thoroughly clean the
spill and place containers in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep combustible liquids away from heat sources.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
- If your home has sustained flood or water damage,
and you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the
power.
- Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged.
This includes cable TV feeds.
- Be aware of and avoid downed utility lines. Report
downed or damaged power lines to the utility company or emergency services.
- Remove standing water, wet carpets and furnishings.
Air dry your home with good ventilation before restoring power.
- Have a licensed electrician check your home for damage.
GAS SAFETY
- Smell and listen for leaky gas connections. If you
believe there is a gas leak, immediately leave the house and leave the
door(s) open.
- Never strike a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion.
- Before turning the gas back on, have the gas system
checked by a professional.
GENERATOR SAFETY
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines
when using generators.
- Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside
the home. CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
- Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry
the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
- Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might
build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
- Never connect generators to another power source such
as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed”
can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.
HEATING SAFETY
- Kerosene heaters may not be legal in your area and
should only be used where approved by authorities.
- Do not use the kitchen oven range to heat your home.
In addition to being a fire hazard, it can be a source of toxic fumes.
- Alternative heaters need their space. Keep anything
combustible at least 3 feet away.
- Make sure your alternative heaters have “tip switches.”
These “tip switches” are designed to automatically turn off
the heater in the event they tip over.
- Only use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer
and follow suggested guidelines.
- Never refill a space heater while it is operating or
still hot.
- Refuel heaters only outdoors.
- Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, and at
least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper
floor support and adequate ventilation.
- Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace
to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible
items.
AND REMEMBER…
- Be careful when using candles. Keep the flame away
from combustible objects and out of the reach of children.
- Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your home’s
electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check
to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up battery and install a new
battery at least once a year.
- Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of
your home.
- All smoke detectors should be tested monthly. All batteries
should be replaced with new ones at least once a year.
- If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it
clear of debris for easy access by the fire department.
Content updated on:
12-Nov-2008
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