Prepare for Cold Weather
Release Date: January 2, 2008
Release Number: 1604-618
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BILOXI, Miss. -- Mississippi residents currently living in temporary travel trailers or mobile homes may want to take extra precautions due to expected freezing temperatures.
Officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offer the following safety recommendations:
- Ensure propane tanks are full.
- If the water hose to the unit has been insulated, make sure the electric heat strip is plugged into the outlet on the side of the unit.
- If the water hose to the unit has not yet been insulated, consider letting a trickle of water run at night to prevent freeze-up. Ensure drainage piping is not blocked before taking this step. Occupants can call the FEMA Mississippi Maintenance Call Center toll-free at 1-866-877-6075 for assistance.
- Do not block unit exhaust vents.
- Use care when utilizing any propane appliances.
- Know where your shut-off valve is located and how to shut it off.
- Always be sure to have proper ventilation in your home.
- Never use grills or camp stoves indoors.
- Keep flammable and combustible materials away from open flames.
- Keep children and pets away from all heaters to avoid accidental burns.
- Don't assume that the smell of propane is because the tank is low.
- Never place your head near or directly over the valves on your storage tank.
For maintenance issues, applicants in Mississippi can call the FEMA Mississippi Maintenance Call Center toll-free at 1-866-877-6075.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Thursday, 03-Jan-2008 09:23:34