Tips

Emergency kits should contain: Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for both drinking and sanitation) Food (at least a several-day supply of nonperishable food) and a manual can opener Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio for weather and evacuation information Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries First-aid kit Dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape to help filter contaminated air Soap, hand sanitizer, personal hygiene, and sanitation supplies Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) and multitool for general use Sleeping bags or warm blankets Whistle (to signal for help) Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Local…

Check your Fire Extinguishers & Smoke Alarms, they need to be replaced every 10 Years. Smoke Alarm Maintenance: Test monthly: Press the test button on your smoke alarm to ensure it sounds loudly.  Battery replacement: Change batteries at least once a year, even if the alarm isn't chirping, and use the recommended battery type.  Cleaning: Regularly vacuum or dust around the smoke alarm to remove debris that could interfere with its function.  Replacement: Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years, regardless of battery condition.  Listen for chirps: A chirping sound indicates a low battery and needs immediate attention.  Fire Extinguisher Maintenance: Visual inspection:…

Hello, Gwinnett! What you thought the term “Plug” meant? Believe it or not, there’s a strong chance you see plugs daily while commuting throughout Gwinnett County. A plug is simply slang for a fire hydrant! That’s it! Thank you for playing and we’ll see you in the comment section for #LearntheLingo!

Lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous if not used safely. To prevent fires, you can:  Store properly: Keep batteries away from heat, direct sunlight, and anything flammable. Store them in a cool, dry place. Use the correct charger: Use the charger that came with the device, or a third-party charger designed for the device. Avoid overcharging: Unplug devices once they are fully charged.  Monitor temperature: Stop using devices if they become too hot or swollen.  Handle with care: If a battery is damaged, swollen, or leaking, do not use it. Dispose properly: Recycle batteries at a local battery recycling location. Follow manufacturer instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging,…

Prevent Garage fires! Thank you U.S. Fire Administration Store flammable items safely  Keep flammable liquids, like gasoline, paint, and solvents, in sealed containers Store flammable items away from heat sources and electrical appliances Consider using a flammable storage cabinet Store flammable liquids in a shed away from your home Keep the garage tidy Sweep the garage frequently, Keep the floor clear of clutter, and Tape down all cords and wires.  Install fire-safety features Install fire-rated drywall in your walls and ceiling  Replace the door separating your garage from your living quarters with a fire-resistant, self-closing door  Install a heat alarm or…

Prevent basement fires! Thank you U.S. Fire Administration Install alarms  Install a smoke alarm in your basement and test it monthly If you have a heating system that uses oil, gas, or wood, install a carbon monoxide alarm Keep flammable materials away from heat sources  Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from furnaces, water heaters, wood stoves, and other heat-generating equipment Close burner access doors on gas water heaters and gas furnaces Maintain your electrical system  Maintain easy access to your circuit breaker panel or fuse box Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) Plug major appliances directly into wall…

If you’re looking to cook a gourmet dinner for your loved one at home this weekend, follow these safety tips to ensure a romantic and safe Valentine’s Day. When simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, remember to check it regularly. Use a timer to remind you that something is on the stove or oven. Never leave the house when you are cooking. Turn the burners off if you must leave the kitchen or the house for any period. Never wear loose clothing like dangling sleeves while cooking. Remember to stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch on fire. Cool…

Heating is the second leading cause of U.S. home fires, deaths, and injuries. December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires. To ensure proper safety in your home, please follow these helpful tips. Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. Never use your oven to heat your home. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.

Ensure your family is prepared to evacuate your home in an emergency or disaster safely. Here are some tips on how families can prepare an effective emergency plan: Create a support network of family, friends, and others who can assist you during an emergency, and share your disaster plans with them. Practice your plan with them. Make sure an extra key to your home is available, know where you keep your emergency supplies, and how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine. If you have family members who undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their…