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Emergency Preparedness

Smart Smoke Alarm technology improves performance of home smoke alarms

 
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), in collaboration with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, today released a report containing research findings on how using a powerful mathematical technique (Linear Discriminant Analysis) in home smoke alarms, combined with inexpensive microcontrollers, can reduce nuisance alarms. This “Smart Smoke Alarm” technology improves the performance of home smoke alarms without substantially increasing the cost to consumers. Click here to download the free report from the USFA’s website.
 

Prepare for Blackouts:

1. Follow energy conservation measures to reduce electricity usage, which can help power companies avoid imposing rolling blackouts.

2. Fill plastic containers with water and place them in the refrigerator and freezer. Leave about an inch of space inside each one to account for expansion. Chilled or frozen water will help keep food cold during a temporary power outage.

3. Be aware that most medication that requires refrigeration can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.

4. Keep your car tank at least half full because gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps.

5. Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage door opener is located and how to operate it. Garage doors can be heavy, so know that you may need help in lifting it.

6. Keep a key to your house with you if you regularly use the garage as the primary means of entering your home, in case the garage door will not open.