Perilous Times
Wild Winds, Earthquake shake Washington State
By RENTON REPORTER
With last night’s wind storm that caused major power outages and the
4.2 magnitude earthquake that rattled the south Puget Sound area, the
American Red Cross reminds individuals and families to stay safe and be
prepared.
“The windstorm and earthquake are good reminders that some basic
preparation and common-sense safety tips will help ensure safety during
disasters like these,” said Susan Pelaez, director of preparedness and
community engagement for the Red Cross. “We know that there is more
rain forecasted for Wednesday so it is important to prepare now. This
is also a good time to make sure that you have your disaster kit in
place.”
Tips from the Red Cross on preparing for high winds and possible power
outages:
Prepare for high winds
• Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs.
• Move or secure lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments,
trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by
wind and become a projectile.
• During the storm, draw blinds and shades over windows. If windows
break due to objects blown by the wind, the shades will prevent glass
from shattering into your home.
Top safety tips for a power outage
• Assemble essential supplies, including: flashlight, batteries,
portable radio, at least one gallon of water, and a small supply of
food. For more information about building or purchasing a disaster kit
go to
www.seattleredcross.org.
• Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Due to the extreme risk
of fire, do not use candles during a power outage.
• Use the phone for emergencies only. Listening to a portable radio can
provide the latest information. Do not call 9-1-1 for information –
only call to report a life-threatening emergency.
• Do not run a generator inside a home or garage. If you use a
generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the
outlets on the generator. Do not connect a generator to a home's
electrical system.
• Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out.
Leave one light on so you know when the power comes back on.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. First
use perishable food from the refrigerator. An unopened refrigerator
will keep foods cold for about four hours.
• If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept
in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If
unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.
• Stay focused on the risks of smoke and carbon monoxide. Buy a carbon
monoxide alarm if you do not already have one. They are available at
most hardware stores. If you have one, check the battery to make sure
it is working. If the alarm sounds: get to fresh air by going outside.
Contact the fire department before you go back inside your home.