Safety Resources - Earthquake Safety
Use the following safety tips to help protect yourself, your family and your residence from the potential threat of fire during or after an earthquake. You can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a fire casualty by being able to identify potential hazards and following the outlined safety tips.
SOME TYPES OF FIRE RELATED HAZARDS PRESENT DURING AND AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE
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Appliances, furniture, and household products can shift, fall, and spill.
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Gas, chemical and electrical hazards may be present.
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Leaking gas lines, damaged or leaking gas propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks could explode or ignite.
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Pools of water or even appliances can be electrically charged.
CHEMICAL SAFETY
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Look for flammable liquids like gasoline, lighter fluid, and paint thinner that may have spilled.
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Thoroughly clean the spill and place containers in a well-ventilated area.
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Keep combustible liquids away from heat sources.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
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If you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the power.
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Look for items that might have jarred loose during the earthquake.
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Appliances or power connectors could create a fire hazard.
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Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
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Look for and replace frayed or cracked extension and appliance cords, loose prongs, and plugs.
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Exposed outlets and wiring could present a fire and life safety hazard.
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Appliances that emit smoke or sparks should be repaired or replaced.
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Have a licensed electrician check your residence for damage.
GAS SAFETY
Be prepared for emergencies and know how to shut off your gas meter. Even in the case of an earthquake or other emergencies, turn off your gas meter ONLY if you smell gas or hear the hissing sound of gas escaping.
Before An Earthquake
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Know where your gas meter is located and keep a 10" or 12" adjustable wrench with your emergency supplies, or next to your gas valve.
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Contact your area building department or permitting agency for local requirements on properly strapping or securing your water heater.
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Replace any semi-rigid aluminum or copper gas tubing with approved flexible metal appliance connector.
After An Earthquake
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DO NOT turn off your meter unless you smell gas or hear gas leaking.
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Check your water heater and furnace vents. If the venting system becomes separated during an earthquake, it could leak hazardous fumes to your home. Signs of an improperly vented appliance may include moisture on the inside of windows or an unusual odor when the appliance is in operation.
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DO NOT use any electrical appliances until you're sure there are no gas leaks.
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For safety, a shut-off valve should be installed at every gas appliance. If a leak occurs at a specific appliance, the valve will permit you to turn off the gas at the appliance rather than shutting off all gas service at the meter. Some valves requires a wrench to turn them.
GENERATOR SAFETY
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when using generators.
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Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the residence. CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
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Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
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Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
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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
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Kerosene heaters may not be legal in your area and should only be used where approved by authorities.
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Do not use the kitchen oven range to heat your residence. In addition to being a fire hazard, it can be a source of toxic fumes.
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Alternative heaters need their space. Keep anything combustible at least 3 feet away.
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Make sure your alternative heaters have “tip switches.” These “tip switches” are designed to automatically turn off the heater in the event they tip over.
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Only use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer and follow suggested guidelines.
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Never refill a space heater while it is operating or still hot.
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Refuel heaters only outdoors.
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Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, and at least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation.
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Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible items.
AND REMEMBER…
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Be careful when using candles. Keep the flame away from combustible objects and out of the reach of children.
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Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your residence’s electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up battery and install a new battery at least once a year.
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Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your residence.
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All smoke alarms should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new ones at least once a year.
If there is a fire hydrant near your residence, keep it clear of debris for easy access by the fire department. Also driveways and alleyways.