Monday, July 24, 2006

Tips and Advisories Related to Power Outages and Hot Weather

St. Louis County Emergency Operations Center would like to remind Citizens about being safe as we all work toward recovery from the recent storms. There are many hazards around our homes, neighborhoods and community that we need to be aware of.

1. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Please be careful and aware that generators are gas operated motors that generate carbon monoxide (CO). With power outages, many people are using generators at their homes. Please make sure that generators are not inside buildings and that the exhaust is directed away from homes. Many homes with carbon monoxide (CO) detectors may not work without electricity. Also be careful not to overload generators with multiple extension cords and excessive amounts of electric appliances, such as refrigerators, freezers, window air conditioners.

2. Fire Safety: While the electric is off, many homeowners are using candles and other combustible light sources such as oil and kerosene lamps and lanterns. Along with the carbon monoxide hazard, fire is a danger. Please monitor all open fire hazards. Be sure that you have a working smoke detector that operates on a battery. Please be fire safe!

3. Electrocution Hazards: As electric is restored to your community, do not approach or touch any downed electric lines. Downed electric lines may become energized and present a life threatening hazard.

4. Debris: Please be careful moving around any debris that may have many hidden hazards that could harm you and your family members. Loose boards, boards with nails exposed, and tree limbs covering downed electric lines could harm you.

5. Spoiled Food: With many homes not having electric power, perishable food has spoiled and posseses a health hazard should anyone still try to consume it. If there is any doubt, dispose of the questionable food rather than risking illness by eating spoiled food.

6. Heat & Medical Conditions: We have had a short break in hot weather, but the forecast calls for temperatures to rise again in the next day or so. Please watch for heat issues with your family, neighbors and friends. If they are affected, move them to a place with electric and air conditioning or to a local cooling center. Also watch over those with medical conditions. Some medical problems can be worsened by heat.

There are many more hazards that can harm you and your family. Please be safe and look for obvious hazards and mark them or point them out to you family to avoid.

For more on this subject, click here. For all your real estate needs contact Nolting Real Estate at www.noltingrealestate.com and/or 636-391-9997.

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