If the Lights Go Out Be #FDNYSmart

Hi Friends,

As we are getting ready for some possible hazardous weather the next couple of days with rain and strong winds, there are some #FDNYSmart tips that you should keep in mind to in the event of a power outage.

When the lights go out, many people turn to candles to light their homes.  That is actually not a good idea.   According to the National Candle Association an estimated 20 percent of candle fires involving deaths happened during the loss of electrical power.  To protect your loved ones follow these #FDNYSmart tips.

In case of an emergency do not use candles to light your home.  It is better to be prepared in advance with flashlights and batteries:

• Have plenty of flashlights available with extra batteries
• A flashlight should be accessible in all rooms, especially in the ones you use often like the kitchen or bedroom.
• Your grownup should also place a flashlight in your car and a small light in the event of a travel emergency.

Electrical equipment should also be tended to in order to avoid any electrical fires.  You should do the following:

• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics.
• Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
• If using a space heater, unplug it.
• Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.

For more safety tips during hazardous weather, you can check out safety tips from the New York City Office of Emergency Management here.

Practicing these #FDNYSmart tips if the lights go out will keep you and your loved ones safe.  To get more tips check out our flash facts here.   Don’t forget to follow Siren and Hot Dog on Twitter.