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Exercise Caution in Aftermath of Hurricanes

Consumer Product Safety Month Reminds of Post-Disaster Dangers

Research Triangle Park, N.C., April 26, 2004 - Hurricane Isabel was directly or indirectly responsible for 50 deaths nationwide and caused an estimated $170 million of property damage in North Carolina last September. Experts predict 14 named storms and eight hurricanes in the Atlantic basin for 2004. Now is the time for North Carolinians to prepare for what may be an above-average hurricane season.

In recognition of May as Consumer Product Safety Month in North Carolina, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) and the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI) are teaming up to offer residents of the Tar Heel state some valuable tips throughout the month.

"With hurricane season beginning June 1, now is the time to review your insurance policies and speak to your agent about the proper coverage you'll need in the event of a disaster," urged Insurance Commissioner Jim Long. "Take inventory of your belongings by making a list and photographing or videotaping your valuables. Also remember that your traditional homeowners policy does not cover flood damage. Residents should consider purchasing a flood insurance policy separately."

According to John Drengenberg, UL's manager of Consumer Affairs, much of the public safety information disseminated during hurricane season focuses on storm preparation and survival. "However, once the storm has passed, people should not let down their guard and assume there are no other potential hazards to contend with," he cautioned.

The safety experts at NCDOI and UL present the following post-disaster safety tips:

Power Outages

  • If your power goes out, never run your portable generator in your house or garage. Run it in a dry, ventilated area away from any air intakes to reduce your chances of succumbing to carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Use an appropriate UL-Listed extension cord rated for outdoor use to run power from the generator back into the house. Don't "pinch" the cord in a closed doorway or window, and never use an extension cord that is cut or damaged.
  • If you are powering more than one appliance, add their wattage ratings together to determine if the generator and cord can handle the load.
  • Flashlights or lanterns are preferable to candles for lighting. However, if you do use candles, place them in sturdy, non-combustible holders and keep them away from combustible materials. Make sure they do not burn down too far. Never leave your home or go to sleep while a candle is still burning. Don't leave children unattended in a room with a lit candle.
  • As a general safety rule, keep a fire extinguisher handy when using candles or cooking with grills or camp stoves.

Electrical appliances

  • To avoid electrical shock, never plug in a wet or damaged appliance.
  • Have your damaged appliance checked by a qualified service center before using it again.

Fallen branches or trees

  • Use UL-Listed power tools that have been tested against nationally recognized safety standards.
  • Make sure you read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Use the right tool for the job. For example, don't use a circular saw to cut tree limbs or logs.
  • Always wear proper attire, including safety glasses or helmets with face shields, when operating chainsaws. Keep clothing, hands and feet away from the blade at all times. Invest in a pair of chainsaw chaps that are worn over your pants and can protect your legs from serious cuts. Wear appropriate protective headgear if cutting limbs in front of or over you (kickbacks can send the blade toward your head).
  • Sharp blades prevent kickbacks. Replace old blades that are worn out or damaged in any way.

More safety tips and other resources for Consumer Product Safety Month are available at www.ncdoi.com.

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent, not-for-profit product safety certification organization that has been testing products for more than 110 years. UL tests more than 18,850 types of products annually, and more than 19 billion UL Marks appear on products each year. Worldwide, UL's family of companies and its network of service providers include 60 laboratories, and testing and certification facilities.

The North Carolina Department of Insurance is the state agency charged with regulating the insurance business in North Carolina. NCDOI also houses the Office of State Fire Marshal and the North Carolina SAFE KIDS Coalition, two organizations that strive to prevent unintentional injuries and deaths. Commissioner Long has served as head of NCDOI and as state fire marshal since 1984, and as state chair of SAFE KIDS for eight years.

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