Did You Know?

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America, claiming nearly 500 lives each year and causing more than 15,000 visits to the emergency room annually.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm--a device similar to a standard home smoke alarm--can alert you if dangerous levels of Carbon Monoxide become present in your home.

Earthquakes

  • In the United States there is an average of six magnitude 6 or greater; and 57 magnitude 5 or greater earthquakes each year.
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  • The largest recorded earthquake in the United States was a magnitude 9.2 earthquake in Prince William Sound, Alaska, on March 28, 1964.
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  • Standing in a doorway during an earthquake is only advisable if you live in an old, un-reinforced adobe house. In most modern homes, doorways are no stronger than any other part of the house and may even be more dangerous considering the door could swing and injure you during the quake.
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  • The best defense during an earthquake is to practice the DUCK, COVER, AND HOLD under a sturdy piece of furniture. And stay there until the shaking stops. You should take special care to protect your head.

Influenza

  • Surgical masks or painter's masks do not provide protection from influenza virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best protection against flu is vaccination.

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  • If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to eggs or if you have a history of Guillain-Barre’ Syndrome occurring after receiving the influenza vaccine, you should not get a flu shot. Otherwise, receiving the vaccine has proven safe and effective.

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  • Studies continue to indicate that people are more likely to experience adverse conditions from contracting the flu than from receiving the influenza vaccine.

Thunderstorms and lightening

  • All thunderstorms produce lightening. Therefore, all thunderstorms have the potential to be dangerous.

  • Lightening strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately

  • During a thunderstorm you should avoid taking a shower or bath. Lightening can strike your house potentially sending an electrical current across metal plumbing throughout your house.

Floods

  • The National Flood Insurance Program states that only between 20 to 25 percent of its claims are from outside "high-risk" flood areas.

  • Typically, flood damage is not covered by your homeowner's insurance policy.

  • The depth of floodwaters is generally very deceiving and the waters are incredibly strong. Avoid driving through flood water unless absolutely necessary.

House Fires

  • The kitchen is the number one room in the home where fires begin.
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  • Thirty percent of home fires originate in the kitchen.
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  • The most effective way to put out a stove top fire is to smother it with baking soda or by carefully sliding a lid over the pan. Pouring water on it or discharging a fire extinguisher increases the risk of spreading the flames.