precautions against accidental disaster
Answers
General safety tips
Wear sturdy shoes when entering a building or walking through debris after a disaster.
Carry a flashlight when entering dark buildings.
Do not enter a building if the foundation has shifted or has been weakened.
Do not demolish a building or house without professional help. Crews from the King County Dept. of Permitting and Environmental Review or licensed contractors can help you.
Buildings must be declared safe before they can be entered.
Heating equipment safely
If you smell gas, open all windows and doors. Do not use matches, candles, lighters, or turn on the stove. Sparks can ignite the gas and cause a fire or an explosion. Call the gas company from your neighbor's house.
If you suspect there is damage to the heating equipment, do not use it until a qualified service representative has checked it.
Electrical equipment safety
WARNING: Never use wet electrical appliances. They may cause an electric shock, overheat, or start a fire.
Do not touch any exposed cable or electrical wire.
Safety tips for children
Do not allow children to wade or play in contaminated water or sand.
Do not leave cleaning buckets with even small amounts of liquids unattended. Toddlers are "top heavy" and if they topple into a bucket, it may not tip over and they could drown.
What to do if an injury occurs
Clean puncture wounds or cuts with soap and water. You may need to see your health care provider for a tetanus shot or antibiotics.
In case of serious injury, go to an emergency room or call 911.