Se Abre Un Centro De Recuperación Por Desastre En Dearborn Heights
Release Date: December 4, 2004
Release Number: 1539-299
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ORLANDO, Fla -- As the holidays approach, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) encourage caution, especially when using holiday lights.
If your roof is covered with plastic sheeting, whether self-installed or installed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and contractors under “Operation Blue Roof,” caution should be used when putting holiday lighting near the covering. The coverings installed under Operation Blue Roof have a Class A fire retardant rating and will self-extinguish in a short time should they catch fire. For safety, electric lights should not be hung on or near the plastic sheeting.
“Many people impacted by the hurricanes are in temporary housing or in homes requiring repairs as a result of hurricane damage,” said Bill Carwile, federal coordinating officer. “We urge everyone to be vigilant in taking precautions to avoid accidents and injuries this holiday season.”
Other holiday safety tips include:
- Before placing lights in other outdoor areas, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.
- Do not overload electrical circuits, such as wall outlets or extension cords. Use a power strip or surge protector.
- Turn off all holiday lights prior to leaving your house or going to bed.
- Make and practice an emergency plan to use in the event of a fire.
“Above all, plan for safety,” said Craig Fugate, state coordinating officer. “Look for and eliminate potential danger spots, especially near candles, fireplaces, trees and/or electrical connections.”
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 06-Dec-2004 09:34:07