Thursday, September 1, 2011

Review from Nassau County Fire Marshall

1. Never run a portable generator or portable pump inside your home, garage, or any enclosed area. Generators and Portable Pumps when running, produce deadly Carbon Monoxide. Keep running generators and portable pumps away from doorways, windows, and other building openings.

2. Never use a BBQ, Hibachi, or Portable Grill inside your home, garage, or in any enclosed space. Besides being a Fire Hazard, they produce deadly Carbon Monoxide. Both Propane and Charcoal grills produce Carbon Monoxide when in use. Cook in a well ventilated area away from your home.

3. Avoid the use of Candles for illumination during times of power outage. Candles have been responsible for several fires in Nassau County during Hurricane Irene. Open flame candle fires spread quickly, and can be deadly. Use "battery operated" flashlights and lanterns instead.

4. Never touch or go near downed power lines, or "any" metal objects near them such as fences. Approaching such areas can be deadly.

5. With extended power outage, Fire & Smoke Detection Systems in your home may no longer be operational. Be vigilant about fire safety in your home during this period. Purchase and install "battery operated" Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, and utilize them until power is restored and you are certain that your system in operational and in good working order.

6. If using power tools such as chain saws, etc. use them with "Great Care" and only if completely familiar with their operation, use, and manufacturers guidelines. Wear proper protective equipment when working with or around power tools (gloves, eye & ear protection).

7. Residents are urged to save 9-1-1 for "life threatening" emergencies only. Keeping these lines free may save a life.

The Nassau County "non emergency" and "information" line for Hurricane Irene questions and issues is 1-888-684-4274.

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