Winter Garden Magazine June 2018 | Page 21

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TIPS Natural Disasters  Florida is at high risk for hurricanes and tornados. Weather alert radios are recommended.  A Tornado Watch means tornadoes are possible. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted.  Decide early if you should shelter in-place or find shelter elsewhere.  Seek shelter in a interior room on the bottom floor of a permanent sturdy structure.  Follow local weather updates and alerts. Severe Weather / Flooding / Lightning  Remove yard hazards and keep trees trimmed.  Remain inside, in a interior room, away from windows and openings.  Beware of flooding. Don’t walk or drive in flooded areas. Be prepared to exit your vehicle if it submerges.  Check structures and attics after lightning storms if safely accessible. Consider lightning protection devices. Home or Structure Fires  Working smoke alarms are one of the most important safety devices in any structure.  Prevent fire hazards by storing flammable liquids and paints appropriately.  Never leave food unattended while cooking. Have a fire extinguisher available.  Create and practice a fire escape plan from each room and determine a designated meeting place. Smoke Alarms  Smoke alarms should be located close to all sleeping areas.  Test smoke alarms monthly and install new batteries (if replaceable) every 6 months.  When buying or replacing smoke alarms, WGFRD recommends photoelectric type alarms.  As of Jan. 2015, a battery run smoke alarm that is newly installed or replaces an existing battery run smoke alarm (Non-Wired, Non-Electrical) must be powered by a nonremovable, nonreplaceable, 10 year battery. Terrorist Incidents  Be aware! If you see suspicious activity or something that is clearly out of place, report it to the police. Power Outages  Report any down power lines and arching or visible fire from power lines, power poles or transformers.  Outages may be extended, especially during severe weather. Stay inside, away from electrical hazards.  Don’t use generators inside a garage or house, carbon monoxide fumes can cause health issues or death.  Ensure that ovens, stoves, heaters, irons, or other appliances that create heat are turned off during a power outage. Because when power is restored these appliances will come back on and may cause a fire hazard. Please do not hesitate to call the Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department with any questions you may have related to emergency preparedness. Contact us at (407) 877-5175 during normal business hours. Keeping Everyone Safe - Everyone Goes Home Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department JUNE 2018 | WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE |   1 EAST CYPRESS STREET - WINTER GARDEN, FL. 34787 - P: 407.877-5175 - F: 407.656-4017 21