Tips

If you experience a power outage:• Use flashlights instead of candles• Keep generators outdoors only• Never use grills or gas stoves for heat• Report outages to your utility providerCarbon monoxide safety is critical during outages.Stay safe during a power outage by focusing on food preservation, generator safety, and electrical hazards.  Immediate Safety ActionsReport the Outage: Call your local utility provider immediately to report the blackout. Do not assume neighbors have already done so.Unplug Electronics: Disconnect computers, TVs, and large appliances to protect them from power surges when electricity is restored.Keep One Light On: Leave one lamp switched "on" so you will know exactly when the power returns.Avoid Candles: Use flashlights or battery-powered…

Looks wet. Drives slick. That’s BLACK ICE.Black ice forms when moisture freezes on road surfaces at or below freezing temperatures, making pavement appear wet instead of icy. Drivers should use extreme caution.If you don’t have to be on the roads, stay home.If driving is unavoidable, be sure to:• Slow down• Leave extra following distance• Brake gently and early• Avoid sudden turns• Keep headlights onInvisible danger. Real consequences.

Frozen water may look solid, but it is unpredictable and dangerous. Retention ponds, lakes, and other water features freeze unevenly due to water movement, changing depths, and temperature variations, making the ice weak even when it appears safe.These areas are commonly found in subdivisions, apartment communities, parks, shopping centers, office parks, and near roadways.To stay safe:• Keep children away from frozen water• Keep pets leashed and away from icy surfaces• Call 911 immediately if someone falls inFor more safety tips, visit GwinnettSafety411.com.

Be sure to protect your pipes during these freezing temperatures. Here’s how: • Let faucets drip slightly. Moving water is less likely to freeze • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate • Wrap exposed pipes in garages, crawlspaces, and exterior walls • Disconnect outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible • Keep indoor temperatures consistent, even overnight A few simple steps now can help prevent frozen or burst pipes later.

According to national fire safety data, space heaters are a leading cause of home heating fires, especially when left on overnight or placed too close to flammable items.To reduce risk:• Turn space heaters off before going to sleep• Keep heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn• Never place heaters near beds, furniture, or curtains• Make sure smoke alarms are working on every level of your homeFires grow fast. Taking a few seconds before bed can help keep everyone safe through the night. Few More Safe Practices :  Maintain a 3-Foot Safety Zone: Keep anything that can burn—including furniture,…

🌙 Did you know? Most fatal fires happen at night, while people are sleeping. Firefighters recommend: • Sleeping with bedroom doors closed • Working smoke alarms inside and outside bedrooms • A plan for how to get out if alarms sound A closed door can slow fire, heat, and smoke, giving you more time to escape

When it gets this cold, there is a higher potential for frozen or broken water pipes. You can help protect your pipes by winterizing your home with a few simple steps: Insulate exposed pipes Keep the heat turned on Cover exposed water spigots If you do experience burst pipes or another water-related issue, or if you are unsure if your issue is an emergency or whether it is your responsibility, you can read more about some of the most common issues: Water leaks Turning water off at meter Water quality issues Low water pressure or lack of hot water Water…

What firefighters want you to know: The bathroom is not a safe place to hide during a fire.Bathrooms don’t protect from smoke or heat, and many don’t have a second exit. In a fire, smoke spreads quickly, and breathing it in can be deadly within minutes.Instead: • Get out of the home as soon as you can using your planned escape route• Close doors behind you as you leave to slow the fire• If you can’t escape, go to a room with a window, seal the door, and call 911 Knowing where not to go during a fire is just as important as…

Be winter ready this weekend!The threat of freezing rain and ice coming to our area this weekend can cause power outages and road closures. Preparing now helps keep your household safe. • Keep flashlights, batteries, and portable phone chargers accessible• Stock drinking water, medications, and non-perishable food• Make sure every family member knows where emergency supplies are stored• Charge devices and set emergency alerts on your phone• Monitor local weather updates and official county alert. Taking a few simple steps today can help reduce risk during severe winter weather. More preparedness tips: GwinnettSafety411.com