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 flood. You can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a fire casualty by being able to identify potential hazards and following the outlined safety tips.

TYPES OF FIRE RELATED HAZARDS PRESENT DURING AND AFTER A FLOOD

• Generators are often used during power outages. Unless generators are properly used and maintained, they can be very hazardous.
• Alternative heating devices used incorrectly create fire hazards. Proper use and maintenance can decrease the possibility of a fire.
• Leaking above ground gas lines, damaged or leaking gas or propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks may explode or ignite.
• Pools of water and even appliances can be electrically charged. This can result in a dangerous electrical fire.
• Appliances that have been exposed to water can short and become a fire hazard.

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.

GENERATOR SAFETY

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when using generators.
• Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines only outside the home. CO (carbon monoxide) fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
• Refuel generators only outdoors and only after allowing the unit to cool.  Never refuel a hot generator.
• 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.
• Always refuel generators outdoors.
• 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...

• Do not use alternative heating devices to dry clothes or furnishings.
• Be careful when using candles. Keep the flame away from combustible objects and out of the reach of children.
• Never thaw frozen pipes with a blow torch or other open flame. Use hot water or a UL listed device such as a hand held dryer.
• 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 alarms 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.