Reduce Home Hazards

In a disaster, ordinary items in the home can cause injury and damage.
Take these steps to reduce you risk.
  • Keep the shut-off switch for oxygen equipment near your bed or chair, so you can get to it quickly if there is a fire.

  • Have a professional repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections.

  • Place large, heavy objects on lower shelves, and hang pictures and mirrors away from beds.

  • Use straps or other restraints to secure tall cabinets, bookshelves, large appliances (especially water heater, furnace and refrigerator), mirrors, shelves, large picture frames, and light fixtures to wall studs.

  • Repair cracks in ceilings and foundations.

  • Store weed killers, pesticides and flammable products away from heat sources.

  • Place oily rags or waste in covered metal cans and dispose of them according to local regulations.

  • Have a professional clean and repair chimneys, flue pipes, connectors, and gas vents.