Plan for a fire-safe transition to the new millenium

For many months now we have heard about the possible effects of the Y2K issue. In March 1999, a special U.S. Senate panel released a report concluding there is no data to suggest the U.S. will experience nationwide social or economic problems related to potential Y2K disruptions.

Many people, however, are taking extra precautions. The U.S. Fire Administration, a directorate of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, encourages us to prepare for potential Y2K disruptions as we would for any event that could have personal safety consequences, such as significant storms or earthquakes. As with any service disruption scenario, we can greatly reduce our changes of experiencing a fire-related fatality or injury by addressing fire safety issues beforehand.

The USFA has the following suggestions for fire safety:

Generator Safety

Generators are often used during power outages and, if not properly used and maintained, and can be extremely hazardous. When using a generator remember to:

• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines.
• Only use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. Carbon monoxide fumes, released by the generator, are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
• Use the appropriate sized and type of power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
• Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or where damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
• Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or "backfeed" can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

Heating Safety

Research suggests more than one-third of home fires in the United States occur during the winter months of December, January and February. One of the reasons these months pose a magnified fire threat is due to increased use of heating sources, such as chimneys and wood stoves. To stay fire-safe during the winter, remember these heating safety tips:

• Do not use the kitchen oven or range to heat your home. In addition to being a fire hazard, it can be a source of toxic fumes.
• Alternative heaters need their space. Keep anything combustible at least three feet away
• Kerosene heaters may not be legal in your area, and should only be used where approved by authorities.
• When using alternative heaters be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions for use inside inhabited areas. Only use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer and follow suggested guidelines
• Remember to keep all combustible liquids away from heat sources.
• Never refill a space heater while it is operating or still hot.
• Refuel heaters only outdoors.
• Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, and at least three feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation.
• Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible items.
• Make sure that your chimney has been cleaned and creosote buildup is not a problem.

Lighting Safety

• Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.
• Don't use candles for emergency lighting.

Cooking Safety

• In case the power fails, plan to use alternative cooking devices in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
• Never use open flames or grills indoors.

Never stockpile fueld or flammable liquids

• For those who feel the need to stock disaster supplies, remember it is extremely dangerous to stockpile any liquid fuels such as gasoline, kerosene or lantern fuel.

The fire department can help

• Check with the local fire department in your community see if there's more information available about how your community is preparing for any potential Y2K problems. If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of debris for easy access by the fire department.

Smoke detectors save lives

• Some smoke detectors may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke detector uses a back-up battery and install a new battery at least once a year. Make sure your smoke detector is on a 10-year replacement cycle.
• Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your home.
• All smoke detectors should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new ones at least once a year.

Fire extinguishers and '911'

• Home fire extinguishers should be mounted in an easily accessible area, but don't rely on them for all of your fire safety needs.
• Most importantly, call '911' immediately whenever you have a fire in the home.
• Don't jeopardize your safety by staying to fight a fire that is out of control.
• Even if you think that you have extinguished the fire, professional firefighters can provide you with the peace of mind to know that there is no likelihood of the fire re-kindling.

Excerpted from Hanford Reach, December 13, 1999