FROM BAD TO WORSE: HOW TO PREVENT FIRE CAUSED BY EARTHQUAKES

Earthquakes are dangerous and destructive enough on their own, but one of the worst things that could happen is a fire following it. This happens often, and the local fire departments often have their work cut out for them after a major tremor. They might not have the personnel or equipment available to respond to your emergency, so how do you prevent a fire from breaking out in the first place?

Planning beforehand is vital, as it’s difficult to do anything once the ground is shaking. Here are some preparation tips:

1. Fire hazards – If at all possible, you should keep any flammable liquids like pesticides and household chemicals to a secure, outdoor shed. This will help keep the damage away from your home, and more importantly, the inhabitants.

2. Gas – Ruptured gas lines are one of the common effects of earthquakes. Know where the main shutoff valve is, and have a wrench nearby that fits it. After an earthquake, be on the alert for the smell of gas, and check the dials on the gas meter for unusually fast movement.

3. Electricity – Make your way to the main control panel to shut it off, especially if you detect any sparks or the smell of burning insulation.

4. Dealing with fire – If the above measures were not able to prevent a house fire, it’s still not too late. You can prevent the flames from spreading if you detect it early enough and have a plan for dealing with it.

• Keep fire extinguishers, preferably ones with an ABC rating, in an easily accessible location near high risk areas, and make sure that everyone in the family knows how to use them.

• Routinely check your smoke detectors and sprinkler systems, since they will often mean the difference between a small fire and an uncontrollable one.

• Get help from your neighbors if possible, but don’t hesitate to escape if it becomes too dangerous.

Regardless of its cause, fire is always a grave threat to lives and property. Our goal at Fire Foe is to protect people by offering some of the best fire safety products on the market. Contact us today, and let’s discuss your own fire protection needs.