The Santa Anas have been blowing like crazy this past week. Along with the wind, temperatures have risen and, adding a low humidity factor, fire danger is high in local mountains. Although the National Weather Service reports that the winds will have died down by the time this newspaper is on the stands, it’s still a good idea to go over some fire safety tips issued by the Fire Department and Red Cross.
€ Strong wind conditions compound wildfire danger. Residents in foothill and wildland communities should use extreme caution with all flame- or spark-producing equipment, including vehicles and power tools.
€ Those living in hazardous brush areas should remain vigilant, and report any local sign of fire and smoke immediately to 911.
€ Additional preparations, such as a fire safety survey of your property and a review of family emergency and evacuation plans, can help remove the apprehension that many of us feel when strong winds begin to blow.
€ With the possibility of downed power lines causing localized power outages, motorists should use extreme caution when approaching darkened traffic signals. Whether driving on a main thoroughfare or a side street, motorists should treat all nonfunctioning traffic signals as a four-way stop.
€ If you should encounter downed wires, always assume them to be energized and potentially lethal. Be careful that such wires haven’t electrically charged puddles of water, chain link fences or other conductive sources.
€ And finally, be careful for toppling trees, wind-blown debris or high-profile vehicles being buffeted by our seasonal winds.
Power Outage Checklist
What you can do to be prepared.
The American Red Cross has developed the following checklist for you. These are some easy steps you can take to prepare for possible disruptions. All of these recommendations make good sense, regardless of the potential problem.
€ Check equipment in your home to see if it may be affected. This includes fire and security alarm systems, programmable thermostats, appliances, consumer electronics, garage door openers, electronic locks.
€ Stock disaster supplies to last several days to a week for yourself and those who live with you. This includes having nonperishable foods, stored water, and an ample supply of prescription and nonprescription medications that you regularly use.
€ As you would in preparation for a storm of any kind, have some extra cash on hand in case electronic transactions involving ATM cards, credit cards and the like cannot be processed. Plan to keep cash in a safe place, and withdraw money from your bank in small amounts.
€ Similar to preparing for a winter storm, it is suggested that you keep your automobile gas tank above half full.
€ In case the power fails, plan to use alternative cooking devices in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t use open flames or charcoal grills indoors.
€ Have extra blankets, coats, hats and gloves to keep warm. Please do not plan to use gas-fueled appliances, like an oven, as an alternative heating source. The same goes for wood-burning or liquid-fueled heating devices that are not designed to be used in a residential structure. Camp stoves and heaters should only be used out of doors in a well-ventilated area. If you do purchase an alternative heating device, make sure it is approved for use indoors and is listed with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
€ Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand. Don’t use candles for emergency lighting.
€ Do not open the refrigerator or freezer. A half full freezer will hold for up to 24 hours and a full freezer for 48. Keep one or more coolers on hand to prolong the shelf life of dairy products, meats, fish, etc.
€ Be prepared to relocate to a shelter for warmth and protection during a prolonged power outage or if for any other reason local officials request or require that you leave your home. Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for information about where shelters will be available.
€ If you plan to use a portable generator, connect what you want to power directly to the generator; do not connect the generator to your home’s electrical system. Also, be sure to keep a generator in a well-ventilated area-either outside or in a garage, keeping the door open. Don’t put a generator in your basement or anywhere inside your home.
Information provided by the Pasadena Fire Department and the San Gabriel Pomona Chapter of the American Red Cross.