HOME SAFETY TIPS
March 2006
Here are some home safety tips to help keep you and your family safe;
Security:
· Always lock your home up at night and when you are away.
· Don’t leave a key outside of your home, give one to a trusted neighbor.
· Prune shrubbery so it doesn’t hide doors or windows.
· Install bright lights outside your home and keep them on at night.
· Never leave a message on your answering machine that says that you are away from home, say “I’m not available right now.”
Electrical:
· Always buy electrical products approved by the Underwriters Laboratories Assn.
· Keep electrical appliances away from water.
· Don’t use a 2-slot outlet for appliances with a three-pronged plug. Use an adapter with a grounding tab.
· Always turn off the switch and unplug lamps when replacing bulbs.
· Protect infants and toddlers by covering unused wall outlets with safety caps.
· Never overload an extension- cord. If it even gets warm or hot when in use, unplug the cord and replace with a heavier cord.
· Before digging, always call MISS DIG—800-482-7171” before you dig.
Firearms:
· If you own a gun, unload it and store it in a locked safety storage device.
· Lock bullets and cartridges in a safety storage device in a separate location.
· Never assume ANYTHING about a gun. “All guns should be considered loaded.”
· All gun owners should take a safety course.
· Talk to your children and family members about the dangers of guns.
· Use trigger locks.
Kitchen:
· Never leave cooking food unattended.
· Unplug appliances, such as toasters, when not in use.
· Do not let old newspapers and other waste materials accumulate.
· Store oxygen cylinders safely away from high temperatures.
