Safety Tips for Weathering the Storm

It's hard to ignore eerily darkening skies and ominous clouds gathering overhead. But even if you see a storm coming, it's almost impossible to predict how it might affect you and your family. Storm-related dangers can be serious, but a little advance planning can help minimize the risks. Here are storm safety tips every family should follow:

DANGER: Gas Leaks

• Check for gas leaks in all of your appliances that use gas, such as water heaters, gas dryers, gas cooking stoves and gas heating systems.
• If you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve and call the gas company from a neighbor's house. If you shut off the main gas valve, you will need a professional to turn it back on.

DANGER: Portable Generators

• Use portable generators only outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from windows and doors. Never use a portable generator indoors or in an attached garage. As gasoline in a generator burns, it emits toxic carbon monoxide gas into the air.
• Protect portable generators from direct exposure to rain and water. Portable generators are typically not weatherproof and can pose the risk of electrocution and shock if used in wet conditions.

DANGER: Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning

• Install CO alarms in your home. Because carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, these alarms are the only devices that can sniff out and warn you of poisonous CO gases.
• Install CO alarms on every level of your home, including the basement and other locations required by law. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before installing the alarm.

DANGER: Electrical Appliances

• Use proper electrical connections, such as UL-Listed extension cords, when using appliances inside or outside your home, or when using a portable generator to run power to the house.
• Do not turn on electrical items or touch circuit breakers when you are wet, or unplug wet appliances until they have been checked by a professional. Even products such as lamps and vacuum cleaners should not be used until they are completely dried out and no longer pose the risk of electrical shock.

DANGER: Damage to Home Wiring

• If you have experienced significant damage or flooding, you will need a professional technician to check all wiring in your home for shock and fire hazards. This could include anything from circuit breakers to outlets and light switches.

PROPERTY PROTECTION: Checklist

• Be proactive in preventing as much damage as possible by investing in products such as UL-Listed roofing materials and systems. UL tests for fire, wind and uplift resistance as well as material and product performance, making sure your home can stand up to stormy weather.