Submitted by, Bobbie Irocky,
FCPC Emergency Management Program Manager

Before any disaster, you should inspect your home and eliminate any potential hazards. In an emergency, ordinary items in your home can cause injury and damage. Anything that can move, fall, break or cause a fire is a potential hazard.

Use the following checklist to see if your house Is safe:

• Clean and repair chimneys, flue pipes, vent connectors, and gas vents.
• Place oily rags and waste in covered metal cans.
• Keep flammable items away from heat sources.
• Repair defective electrical wiring.
• Don’t overload electrical cords.
• Don’t run wires under carpets or rugs.
• Fix leaky gas connections immediately.
• Secure water heater by strapping to wall studs.
• Secure large appliances.
• Fasten shelves securely to walls.
• Place large, heavy objects on lower shelves.
• Hang pictures and mirrors away from beds.
• Brace overhead light fixtures.
• Repair cracks in ceilings and foundations.
• Secure hanging plants.

By taking preventive measures before an emergency, you can save lives and property.