The Elsinore Edition September 2024

September is National Preparedness Month

This month is all about getting ourselves ready for those unexpected situations that life can throw our way. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a personal emergency, having a plan and the right resources can make a difference.

Join Us to Learn More about emergency Preparedness

Fire Prevention and Safety

• Install Smoke Alarms: Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries annually or as needed.
• Create a Fire Escape Plan: Develop and practice a fire escape plan with all family members. Identify two ways out of each room and establish a safe meeting place outside the home.
• Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy: Equip your kitchen and other key areas with fire extinguishers. Make sure they are accessible and everyone in the household knows how to use them.
• Maintain Electrical Safety: Regularly inspect electrical cords and appliances for damage. Avoid overloading outlets and use extension cords temporarily rather than permanently.
• Practice Safe Cooking: Never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable items away from the stove, and ensure your kitchen is equipped with a working fire extinguisher.
• Secure Heating Equipment: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials. Have your heating system inspected annually and use only UL-approved heating equipment.
• Store Flammable Materials Safely: Store gasoline, cleaning supplies, and other flammable materials in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
• Clean Chimneys and Vents: Have your chimney and vents inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional to prevent creosote buildup and blockages.
• Educate and Practice: Educate family members about fire safety and conduct regular fire drills. Make sure everyone knows how to react when a smoke alarm sounds.

Earthquake Preparedness

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops. If you���re outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
• Secure Your Home: Anchor heavy furniture, appliances, and other items to walls to prevent tipping. Secure breakables and keep hazardous materials away from high shelves.
• Be Prepared for Power Outages: Have backup power sources, such as batteries or a generator, and keep your cell phone charged and ready.
• Inspect for Damage: After the shaking stops, check for injuries and damage. Be cautious of structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical hazards. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply and leave the building.
• Practice Safety: Regularly review and practice earthquake drills with your family. Make sure everyone knows what to do during and after an earthquake.

Flood Safety

• Know Your Risk: Understand if you live in a flood-prone area and be aware of local flood alerts and warnings.
• Build an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water (one gallon per person per day), medications, important documents, and first aid supplies.
• Elevate and Protect: If possible, elevate electrical appliances, utilities, and important items above potential flood levels. Use flood barriers or sandbags to help protect your property.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Never walk or drive through flooded areas. Floodwaters can be deeper and stronger than they appear and may contain dangerous debris or contaminants.
• Document and Insure: Keep an inventory of your possessions and ensure your home and belongings are covered by flood insurance. Document any damage with photos for insurance claims.