Storm Preparedness Tips

Many families take numerous actions to help prepare their homes for the harsh conditions of severe storms and their aftermath. Go one step further and help protect your home and family from fire and carbon monoxide (CO) threats from severe storms and weather.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless and tasteless gas that can be produced by any fuel burning device including furnaces, stoves and water heaters. It is important to consider this during your storm and weather disaster prep because portable electric generators in poorly ventilated areas and damaged appliances can cause CO leaks. Help keep your loved ones safe by practicing the following storm and weather preparedness safety tips.

Storm and Severe Weather Preparedness Tips

Install CO Alarms

Carbon monoxide alarms detect and alert you and your family to elevated CO levels in your home.  It is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association that you install carbon monoxide alarms on every level, outside of each sleeping area, and inside every bedroom of your home. Consider installing CO alarms with a battery back-up for continued protection during power outages or upgrade to our 10-year sealed battery alarms to eliminate the need for battery replacements.

Have Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers can help contain a small fire from growing and causing more damage. Keep a fire extinguisher on every level of your home, as well as in the garage and kitchen. Consider a multi-rated fire extinguisher that can be used on a variety of types of fires like wood, paper, fabric, flammable liquid and electrical fires. When operating a fire extinguisher, remember P.A.S.S: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the trigger, Swipe from side to side.  If you do have to operate a fire extinguisher, know when to escape to safety if the fire becomes too big to contain.

Use Flashlights, Not Candles

In the event that you lose power due to severe weather or other type of storm, never use an open flame for a light source. Using an open flame like candles for a light source can be a potential fire hazard. This is especially dangerous when people use them at night and leave them unattended while sleeping.  Avoid the temptation to reach for a candle by having flashlights or battery-powered lights handy. Make sure there are easily accessible flashlights for everyone in case of an emergency.

Never Run Generators Inside

Generators are a common alternative power source when a home’s power is out from severe weather or a storm. Generators are especially important to have on hand during any season where you can get severe weather. When using a generator, run them outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid building up carbon monoxide in your home. Don’t run them in the garage, even if you intend to keep the garage door open. Also be sure to keep it at least 15 feet away from any door, window, or vent opening for extra safety precautions.

Watch Your Portable Heaters

Portable heaters can be very important for keeping warm when there is a power outage or no heat to your home during colder temperatures. However, they can often be a fire hazard. This is typically due to the large amount of electricity they use that often overloads circuits. Fuel fired heaters also carry the risk of releasing carbon monoxide gas. Never leave a space heater unattended, especially when sleeping and check for any frayed wiring.

Create an Escape Plan

Finally, be sure to have established a home emergency escape route with your family. There should be at least two clear exits per room that you can get to in case of an emergency. Also, identify a safe meeting place not far from your home, such as the mailbox or neighbor’s house, where everyone can meet and be accounted for.

Aside from having enough safety supplies, food and water on hand for the whole family during seasons that natural disasters occur, make sure to follow these extra severe weather safety preparedness tips to help ensure your home is protected from fire and carbon monoxide emergencies.