Fire Safety:
Know the location of your
homes electrical box, gas meter and water shut off valves
Keep a 10 inch crescent wrench near the gas valve and know how to use it.
Turn off valve only when you are sure there is a leak. it may take
2 to 3 weeks for the Gas Company to relight the pilots.
Keep a fire extinguisher near the kitchen (5 lb., ABC type or a
2A-10BC)
Install smoke detectors on each level of your home; test and
change the batteries annually
Repair or replace unsafe appliances and faulty wiring
Plan two escape routes out of each room
Keep yard clear of combustible material from home
Remove toxic and flammable material from home and garage
Teach family members to stay low to the ground when escaping from
fire
If there is a fire get out and do not go back inside
Building:
Have your house inspected for
unsafe construction, unreinforced masonry, and non-ductile concrete
Bolt wood frame buildings to the foundation
Brace cripple walls (the short walls that connect the foundation to
the floor and enclose the crawl space)
Secure water heater and install flexible gas piping
Secure cabinets, bookcases and shelves to the wall
General Safety:
Remove heavy objects
from top shelves
Fasten hanging mirrors, pictures, and frames etc. to the wall
Keep bed and favorite chairs away from windows, book cases, and
other heavy objects that could fall on you
Install safety latches on cabinets
Close blinds and curtains each night to protect yourself from
broken windows
Create a personal support network. Identify a friend or
neighbor, and agree to check on each other after an earthquake or disaster
Meet with your neighbors and create a neighborhood preparedness plan
and watch group
Have the neighborhood form a Neighborhood Emergency Action Team
(NEAT) through the San Marino Fire Department. For more
information on a NEAT team contact Captain
Mark Dondanville at 626-300-0735