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Show ......^,. Emergencies When Children are in School Check the local media for announcements about changes in school openings and closings. Parents can always pick up their children during the school day, but realize that sometimes the school might be the safest place for children. Schools are also used as emergency evacuation centers. For older children who self-transport, tell them to follow the instructions of authorities. MAKING A SAFER HOME Disasters such as earthquakes and floods that occur in our area can cause tremendous property damage. Some damage from such catastrophes can be reduced or avoided. Many solutions are relatively simple and inexpensive. To prevent loss in a flood, never build in the vicinity of a flood plain. Also, if you are building a new home consider seismic retrofitting by a professional contractor. For existing homes consider the following suggestions to reduce property damage in the event of an earthquake. Secure fixtures such as lights, cabinets, bookcases, and top heavy objects. These objects may come loose or fall during an earthquake. Place hard or heavy objects on lower shelves, and fasten shelves to the wall. Remove objects from sleeping area that could fall and injure someone. Do not hang plants in heavy pots that could swing free and fall from hooks. Securing furniture. Secure your top-heavy furniture using V brackets, corner brackets, or "anodized" aluminum molding. Corner brackets or eye brackets are best for items located a short distance from the wall. In some case you can consider attaching a wooden or metal guardrail on open shelves to keep items from sliding or falling off. Handle bottled goods, glass, vases, and china properly. Breakable objects should be displayed in low cabinets and secured from sliding or falling with non-skid padding, putty or velcro. Store breakable items by carefully wrapping in materials, such as bubble wrap, and placing wrapped items in sturdy sealed containers. Check the electrical wiring and connections to gas appliances. Defective electrical wiring, leaking gas lines, or inflexible connection are very dangerous in the event of an earthquake. Secure your water heater by strapping it to the wall or another method. This will help prevent broken gas and water pipes and possible fire. Know and discuss risks. In your family plan, know the location of shut off valves and how to shut off utilities at that point. Address and discuss other possible risks in the home. First Stud Not Behind Water Heater 1/4* Dla. x 3" Lag Screws With Flat Washers Into Studs Flexible Water Connections PLAN ? 12" Maximum Water Heater 3/4" x 24 Gauge Perforated Steel Plumber's Tape Encircling Tank From Front And Back £0, Flexible Water Connections —Z::,JZ. Gas meter shut-off Have wrench stored in a specific location where it will be immediately available Emergency Procedures For Natural Gas Leaks 1. Inspections. Check house piping and appliances for potential damage in a disaster. Also, watch for potential fire hazards in your home or business. 2. Precautions. After a disaster occurs, do not use matches, lighters, other open flames, electrical switches, or devices that could spark in case of a gas leak. 3. Beware. Gas leaks cannot be seen, so listen for escaping gas, and notice any gas odors. 4. Shut-off. If a gas line is suspected of being broken, shut off the gas at the meter. 5. Debris. If there is debris, wear heavy shoes, and keep yourself protected from falling objects. 6. Report. Report damage to authorities, and listen for instructions. 7. If you have questions, contact your utility company or a CERT member for assistance. Emergency Procedures For Home Electrical Circuits 1. Familiarize yourself and family with the location of the electrical breaker panel. 2. Turn off breakers for areas of concern in a disaster situation.. 3. If in doubt, the main breaker may be shut. 4. In cases of flooding: a) Think before stepping in any water; b) A shock hazard may exist even in an inch of water if an extension cord connection is on the floor; c) If the electrical panel is upstairs, shut off all circuits; and d) If the electrical panel is in the basement, determine whether it can be reached on dry ground. If not refer to the next step. 5. Check your house electrical meter. If it is on your home there may be a main disconnect switch (breaker) next to it. If the meter is on an underground service, it may be in front of your home; but there should be a main breaker where the line enters the home. Carefully shut it off. Step 2 Step 1 Circuit Figure 11-7. Circuit Box V Shut-Off Figure 11-8. Fuse Box V Shut-Off 8 Emergency Procedures For Water Main Shut-off 1. Familiarize yourself and your family with the location of water lines and the main shut-off valve for your home. 2. Label the main valve shut-off for quick reference. 3. Although water leaks may be harmless, leaks can reduce water pressure needed to fight fires or supply a home. 4. If you find a water leak at your home, the water valve can be turned off and only used as needed. 9 c-Label for quick identification |