Public Service Announcement

Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Encourages Residents to think “Safety” during Power Outages

(Friday, September 16, 2005)

• Have a battery operated smoke alarm, as well as spare batteries for radios, etc.
• Use battery operated lights, rather than candles, or oil lamps.
• Candle Safety (Only Use With Extreme Caution)
• Ensure candles are secured in a sturdy candle holder that won`t tip or burn.
• Be careful about the type of candle holder, as some glass bowl types have been known to crack, or break from the heat as the candle burns down, possibly causing a fire.
• Candles or oil lamps should not be placed on window sills, as the proximity to curtains is not safe.
• Don’t place candles near combustibles, or in unstable locations such as a couch or chair.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Never leave candles burning unattended.

Portable space heaters:

• Ensure heating appliances are approved for indoor use, and maintain proper clearances from combustibles (as per manufacturers instructions).
• Never refuel your heater inside the home, and only after it has cooled.
• Remember that carbon monoxide can kill even though you can not smell it! Don’t bring your propane tanks inside.

Generators:

• Ensure back up generators are installed by a qualified electrician, and follow the manufacturers safety instructions.
• Generators must remain outside and ensure fumes do not enter the house through exterior venting or nearby windows and doors.
• Make sure all circuits are turned off before starting the generator. Then only turn the circuits on that you will use.

Other Helpful Tips:

• Residents should fill containers for drinking water and fill the bathtub (for flushing toilets) prior to a storm, especially if you are on a well.
• Have at least one basic phone that does not require power. (cordless phones require electricity)
• Cellular telephone circuits become extremely busy during emergencies. Emergency workers rely on cell phones to communicate and unnecessary calls may mean emergency personnel can’t get through.
• Before the storm, turn your refrigerator and freezer settings to their coldest settings. This could buy some time to keep food from spoiling.
• Keep the freezer and fridge doors closed as much as possible.
• Keep a manual can opener for canned food.
• Learn how to open your garage door manually.
• Only use cooking and heating equipment certified for indoor use.
• Always assume that downed wires are live, and keep your distance from them.
• Incase of emergencies dial 911