State offers storm-safety advice

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December 12, 2008

Anonymous The Press Republican Fri Dec 12, 2008, 06:36 AM EST

ALBANY -- The storm that hit overnight was expected to bring ice, freezing rain and a large amount of snow to some areas of the North Country.

That means the potential for power outages or flooding.

The New York State Emergency Management Office offers the following tips:

DRIVING SAFETY
Keep vehicles clear of ice and snow.

Plan your stops; keep more distance between cars.

Be extra alert. Remember, snowdrifts can hide children.

Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

POWER OUTAGES
If you lose electrical service during the winter:

Call your utility first to determine repair schedules.

Turn off or unplug most lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored. Leave one light on to indicate power has been restored.

To help prevent freezing pipes, turn on faucets slightly. Running water will not freeze as quickly.

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to reduce food spoilage.

KEEPING WARM
If the heat goes out, you can keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.

Use only safe sources of alternative heat, such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters. Always follow manufacturer's instructions.

Dress in layers of lightweight clothing and wear a cap.

Eat well-balanced meals.

GENERATOR SAFETY
Run generators outside, downwind of structures.

Never run a generator indoors. Deadly carbon-monoxide gas from the generator's exhaust can spread throughout enclosed spaces.

Symptoms of carbon-monoxide poisoning include sleepiness, headaches and dizziness. If you suspect poisoning, ventilate the area and get to a hospital.

Install a carbon-monoxide detector.

Fuel spilled on a hot generator can cause an explosion. If your generator has a detachable fuel tank, remove it before refilling. If this is not possible, shut off the generator and let it cool before refilling.

Do not exceed the rated capacity of your generator.

Keep children away from generators at all times.

FIRE SAFETY
When using fireplaces and wood-burning stoves:

Always keep a screen around an open flame.

Never use gasoline to start your fireplace.

Never burn charcoal indoors.

Do not close the damper when ashes are hot.

Always make sure you have proper ventilation.

Keep curtains, towels and potholders away from hot surfaces.

Have working fire extinguishers and smoke detectors.

SNOWBLOWER SAFETY
Never leave your snowblower running and unattended.

Make sure the discharge chute is not aimed at passing motorists or pedestrians.

Never put your hands into the discharge chute or augers to clear stuck snow and ice.

Never add fuel when the engine is running and hot.

Make sure you know how to turn the machine off quickly.