Snow Jam 2011 might be coming to an end, but here is a wonderful guide to help you navigate through the worst of inclement weather.
Atlanta is more prone to ice storms and power outages than most communities. Here are a few tips if you find yourself in that situation.
Home Heating Winter Safety Tips
When winter temperatures drop significantly below normal such as during a cold spell, staying warm and safe can become a challenge. Please follow these guidelines below to prevent injury, illness or death.
Beware of the Dangers from Alternative Heating Sources during Power Outages
Alternative heat sources such kerosene heaters are commonly used during cold snaps. Improper usage of these devices can cause carbon monoxide to build up in homes or garages, resulting in sudden illness and death.
Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors inside your home and replace batteries as required. Seek medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Early symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. Individuals who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol may die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms.
Tips on Proper Kerosene Heater Use
· Properly follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully for your specific heater model.
· Be sure that wick is set at proper level as instructed by manufacturer and is clean.
· Operate a kerosene heater in a well-vented area. Leave a door open to rest of the house or keep an outside window open to ensure adequate flow of fresh air.
· Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors in your home according to the manufacturer’s instructions and replace the batteries on a regular basis. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and dial 911.
· Use only 1-K grade kerosene fuel. Colored or cloudy kerosene will give out an odor and smoke when burned and will also gum up the wick.
· Store kerosene in container intended for kerosene only. Don’t store in a gasoline can or container that contained gasoline. This will avoid using contaminated fuel or the wrong fuel by mistake. Kerosene containers are usually blue and gasoline containers are red.
· Never refuel heaters inside the home. Fill the tank outdoors, away from combustible materials and after the heater is turned off and allowed to cool. Do not fill the fuel tank above the “full” mark. This area allows the fuel to expand without causing leakage when the heater is operated.
· Never attempt to move a lighted kerosene heater. Even a carrying handle could cause burns.
· To avoid risk of fire, place the kerosene heater several feet away from all furniture, curtains, paper, clothes, bedding and other combustible materials.
· Infants, small children and pets should be kept away from heaters to avoid serious burns.
NEVER USE A CHARCOAL/PROPANE GRILL, CAMP STOVE, PORTABLE OUTDOOR PROPANE HEATER OR LEAVE YOUR OVEN DOOR OPEN INSIDE YOUR HOUSE FOR HEAT! These devices put out carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be deadly.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Alternative heating sources such as portable generators, kerosene heaters, propane gas stoves and ovens heated with gasoline all have been used as heat sources indoors, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
· Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, garage or near a window.
· Don’t run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open.
· Don’t burn items in a stove or fireplace that isn’t properly vented. Don’t heat your house with a gas oven.
· Don’t place a portable heater within reach of children or pets and don’t use a power strip or extension cord. Look for the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) label and carefully read instructions before use.
· Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and replace batteries as required. If the detector sounds, leave your home immediately and dial 911.
· Seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Early symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Carbon monoxide poisoning is treatable.
Information: Courtesy of Chattahoochee Hills Civic Association – a great place to live in snow or sun!
Dianne Harnell Cohen
404.313.7300
dharnellcohen@atlantafinehomes.com
Sandra Storrar
404.310.3558
sandra@atlantafinehomes.com