Looking for a Safe Home?

Think and Plan:

Check outside and around the house, manufactured (mobile) home or apartment.

• Is it away from a river/creek or other water source that may flood?
• What fire department and ambulance service is available and how do you contact them in an emergency?
• Is it near a fire hydrant?
• Are home entryways, parking areas and area streets well lit?
• Are the bushes and trees trimmed and away from roof, chimney, gutters and entryways?
• Are hallways and stairwells equipped with emergency lighting?
• Are play areas well-lit and free from hazards?
• If a pool is present, does it have a fence with a locked gate?

Check the inside of your house, manufactured (mobile) home or apartment.

• Are there smoke alarms installed on each level of the home and are they working?
• Are there fire extinguishers available and are they fully charged? (Your local fire department can tell you where to get them charged.)
• Are electrical outlets adequate and working? Do not overload outlets!
• Are the locks on windows and doors in working order?
• Are there at least two (2) ways to exit the residence?
• Are the chimney and gutters cleaned regularly?

Prepare your house, manufactured (mobile) home or apartment for:

Fires

Check smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. If you must use a portable space heater, do NOT use near flammable objects such as curtains or furniture

Floods

Make sure the electric panel/fuse box is elevated above previous flood levels. Make sure the furnace, water heater, washer, dryer and other items in the basement are located off the floor and elevated above previous flood levels.

Tornados

Go to a tornado safe room, if you have one, or to a room at the lowest level of your home, preferably in the center of the home (such as a bathroom or a closet). If you live in a mobile home park, be prepared to leave your home and go to a sturdy, well built building.

Hurricanes

Have enough hurricane shutters or pre-cut plywood on hand to cover all windows and doors. Manufactured (mobile) homes, especially in areas where high winds occur, should be strapped or tied down to a foundation with cables or chains.

Earthquakes

Bolt tall furniture like bookcases and china cabinets to wall studs. Strap water heaters to wall studs. Install strong latches on cupboards. Have everyone in your home practice how to DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON.

Plan and think safely by planning for tomorrow:

• Obtain hazard specific homeowners insurance to cover your contents and structure or renters insurance to cover your contents.
• Maintain a battery operated radio and a NOAA Weather Radio.
• Prepare a family disaster supplies kit and keep it current and handy.
• Develop a family evacuation plan and practice it once a year.
• Pay attention to all emergency warnings ”“ follow directions and evacuate your residence when advised to do so.