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However, there are important differences among potential emergencies that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. Learn more about the different kinds of emergencies and the appropriate way to respond to each.
- Learn about the emergency plans Philadelphia has in place
- Find out (see below) what kinds of disasters, both natural and man-made, are most likely to occur in your area.
- The Philadelphia area may experience flooding, severe winter storms, hurricanes, heat waves, fires, a hazardous materials incident or a possible terrorist attack.
The American Red Cross has more about the types of emergencies that may occur in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Terrorism
Disease Outbreak and Biological Threats
Chemical Threats
Earthquake
Extreme Heat
Fire
Flood
High Rise Safety
Hurricane
Influenza Pandemic
Nuclear Threat
Thunderstorms
Tornadoes
Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
Additional Resources and Links
Learn more about local Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware county resources.
Terrorism
EXPLOSIVE THREATS
Globally, the use of explosives and bombs continues to be the mainstay of terrorist groups. The City of Philadelphia uses highly trained explosives specialists to rapidly assess, mitigate and render safe any and all explosive threats found within our City.
How can you prevent someone from using explosives?
Be vigilant. Be aware of suspicious behaviors or out-of-place activities around you. Examples of things to notice may include:
- People - Look for strange behavioral traits-not appearance, because a terrorist can come from any ethnic group or walk of life.
- Places - Targeted buildings or infrastructure are often checked out before an actual attack. Pay attention to:
- Someone wearing clothing that is not consistent with the season or the surroundings
- A person with a tightly clenched grip onto a bag, suitcase or backpack
- Wires or switches sticking out from carried bag or items
- Someone looking unusually anxious or calm
- Individuals taking significant interest in the outside of a building, delivery gates, doors and entrances
- Individuals taking significant interest in security cameras and controlled areas
- Individuals taking photos and notes of building security measures
- A person attempting to disguise their identity, such as wearing a motorcycle helmet, a hood, etc.
- Vehicles parked outside a building for long periods of time
- The same vehicle with different drivers returning to a building on several occasions
- Activity inconsistent with the location
- Unusual activity by contractor vehicles
- In today's environment, a backpack left on a train filled with commuters is taken much more seriously than one found in an empty park.
- Err on the side of caution. If you think something is suspicious, treat it as such until experts have determined that it is harmless.
Suspicious objects may include:
- Large container-type items (such as suitcases, backpacks, bags, etc.) left in areas with a high volume of pedestrian traffic or an area/building of symbolic nature
- Parcels or packages shipped with strange indicators such as misspellings, incorrect titles, no return address, or instructions for a specific person to open, etc.
- Cars or trucks parked in a busy location exhibiting smoke coming from inside the vehicle; a heavy load on the suspension; wires in uncommon areas; and odd electronic equipment such as cell phones wired to other items.
Storage Facilities and other private spaces– things to notice may include:
- Cash paid for short term rental of housing or storage facility
- Computers, fans, and an abundance of pots, containers and cookware moved into housing, but little personal belongings
- Odd smells coming from property
By being alert, you can stop an attack at the most crucial time: before it starts. If you observe a terrorist threat or criminal activity, call 9-1-1.
What to do if an explosion occurs
Not every explosion is a terrorist attack. Here are basic guidelines if you are near an explosion of any type:
On the street
- Regain your bearings. Determine if you are injured and where the blast occurred.
- Move immediately in the opposite direction of the blast
- Do not walk close to buildings-glass and debris may still be falling
- Once you are out of the danger area (at least three blocks away), try to remember and write down everything you can about the event. This information could be helpful later on.
In a building
- Regain bearings. Determine if you are injured and note structural damage.
- Quickly note secondary hazards – fire, smoke, toxic fumes and the smell of gas.
- Determine whether you should evacuate or shelter in place
- Once clear of the danger area, record all information
On a train
- Regain bearings. Determine if you are injured and note structural damage.
- Quickly note secondary hazards – fire, smoke, toxic fumes.
- Both the tunnel and the train will be dark – move as slowly as is practical.
- Upon exiting the train, be careful to avoid the charged rail.
- Move as group away from train
RADIATION EXPOSURE
In the unlikely event that radiation is released in the City, specially trained experts are prepared to respond with equipment to test if levels of radiation are present.
If radiation is present, officials may recommend decontamination (removing clothing and washing with water and soap). The Philadelphia Fire Department and area hospitals are prepared to set up facilities to do this. Depending on the type of radiation exposure, health officials may also recommend additional treatment.
If you believe you have been exposed to radiation, stay where you are. Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions.
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Disease Outbreak and Biological Threats
Disease outbreaks and biological emergencies can be either naturally occurring or man-made threats.
Current natural threats include:
West Nile Virus is a disease spread by mosquitoes that can infect humans, birds, horses and other animals. In most cases, WNV can cause flu-like illness or may cause no symptoms at all. However, in some cases, particularly among the elderly, it can cause serious encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).
Learn more about what you can do to protect yourself and your family at www.cdc.gov Fight the bite!
Pandemic Influenza is a global outbreak that could be caused by a new flu virus-not the seasonal flu that affects people every year. The new flu virus will be different from the seasonal flu that affects people every year. Pandemic influenza may spread easily from person to person, causing serious illness and affecting many people around the world in a short period of time. There is no pandemic influenza in the world at this time.
Man-made threats:
A bioterrorism attack is the deliberate use of a virus, toxin, or bacteria to cause fear or harm. Many bioterror agents must be inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin. or be eaten to make you sick. Some biological agents, such as anthrax, cannot spread from one person to another. Others, like the smallpox virus, are highly contagious.
To find out how to protect yourself and your family, visit the Bioterrorism and Emergency Response Information website.
Questions and Answers About Bioterrorism
PLANS FOR MASS DISPENSING OF MEDICATIONS AND VACCINES
Many diseases can be treated and controlled with medications and vaccines. In the event of a biological attack or disease outbreak, Philadelphia has plans to distribute medicine or a vaccine to those who are at risk.
If needed, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health will be ready to provide medicine or a vaccine to the entire population of Philadelphia within 48 hours. To distribute treatment or vaccine, the City may open Points of Dispensing (PODs). If PODs are activated, you may locate the one closest to you by listening to local radio and television stations, calling 215-686-1776 or on the web at Phila.gov.
Learn more about mass dispensing by reading about the Emergency Preparedness and Bioterrorism Program Initiatives.
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Chemical Threats
Chemical threats can affect people by accidental exposure or through a deliberate release. In the event of a major spill, authorities will let you know what you must do.
Accidental exposures can occur when hazardous materials are released into the environment by leaking storage containers, and spills from tanker trucks or ships.
A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid. Signs of a chemical attack include:
- Many people suffering from watery eyes, twitching, choking, having trouble breathing or losing coordination
- Many sick or dead birds, fish or small animals are also cause for suspicion
If you think you have been exposed to a chemical hazard, you should take the actions listed below.
CHEMICAL EXPOSURE THREAT SAFETY TIPS:
- Stay upwind of the material if possible
- Get to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible if needed
- If there is a chemical hazard indoors, try to get out of the building without passing through the contaminated area. Otherwise, it may be better to move as far away from the hazard as possible and Shelter in Place. (link to Get a Kit, Shelter in Place)
- Quickly remove any contaminated clothing. Do not pull the clothing over your head; cut it off instead. Put clothing in a plastic bag and keep far away from you and anyone else in your home.
- Wash yourself with regular soap and water. Do not try to wash or throw away your clothes
- If you have been exposed to hazardous materials, officials may recommend that you be decontaminated. Decontamination means removing your clothing and washing your body to reduce or remove the chemical so that it is no longer a hazard. People who have in special emergency training will set up decontamination facilities. Emergency personnel will provide medical attention if necessary.
Call the Poison Control Hotline at 1-215-386-2100 if you have a poisoning emergency or dial 9-1-1.
To learn more about chemical emergencies, visit the American Red Cross website.
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Earthquake
Although major earthquakes are uncommon in Philadelphia, tremors occasionally occur and residents should be prepared. After an earthquake, there may not be electric, gas, or telephone service.
IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE, YOU SHOULD:
- Drop to the floor
- Take cover under a solid piece of furniture or next to an interior wall. Cover your head and neck with your arms.
- Hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture and be prepared to move with it. Stay where you are until the shaking stops.
- Be prepared for aftershocks, which often follow an earthquake
To learn more about preparing for an earthquake, visit the American Red Cross website.
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Extreme Heat
During the summer, people are especially vulnerable to the hazards of hot weather, especially in cities, where asphalt, concrete and metal absorb heat and make it difficult for people to cool down.
Heat waves are particularly dangerous for children and people with special needs. Remember to check on your neighbors and offer assistance.
Illnesses that extreme heat can cause are described below. These can become medical emergencies, so be ready to call 9-1-1, especially in the case of heat stroke.
HEAT CRAMPS
- Heat cramps are muscle pains and spasms resulting from heavy exertion
- Although heat cramps are the least severe heat-related illness, they are an early signal that the body is having trouble coping with heat and should be treated immediately with rest and fluids.
- Stretching or direct pressure can also reduce cramps. Unless very severe, heat cramps do not require emergency medical attention.
HEAT EXHAUSTION
- Heat exhaustion occurs when body fluids are lost through heavy sweating due to vigorous exercise or working in a hot, humid place.
- Symptoms include:
- sweating
- pale, clammy skin
- fatigue
- headache
- dizziness
- shallow breaths
- a weak or rapid pulse
- Victims of heat exhaustion are tired but not confused
- The condition should be treated with rest in a cool area, drinking water or electrolyte solutions, elevating the feet 12 inches, and further medical treatment in severe cases.
- If not treated, the victim's condition may escalate to heat stroke. If the victim does not respond to basic treatment, seek medical attention.
HEAT STROKE
- Also called "sunstroke." Heat stroke results when the victim's temperature control system, which produces sweat to cool the body, stops working.
- Skin is flushed, hot and dry, and body temperature may be elevated
- The victim may also be confused, develop seizures, breathe shallowly and have a weak or rapid pulse
- This is the most serious heat-related illness and people exhibiting these symptoms should seek emergency medical attention
FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY COOL:
- Stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15)
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn
- Give your body a chance to adjust to extreme temperature changes
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids
- Use shades or awnings
- If you can, go to public pools and air-conditioned stores and malls
- Never leave children, pets, or those who require special care in a parked car during periods of intense summer heat
- Find a spray ground. When the heat index is going to be dangerously high, Philadelphia opens spray grounds to offer people relief from the heat. Call 215-686-1776 during a heat emergency to find the location of a spray ground or pool. You can also access Phila.gov to find your local spray ground.
Download the Ready Philadelphia Stay Cool brochure. (link to html and PDF)
HEAT TERMS:
- Heat Wave: Prolonged period of excessive heat often combined with excessive humidity.
- Heat Index: How hot it feels when relative humidity is combined air temperature.
- Heat Watch: Declared by the Philadelphia Health Commissioner on the first day with a heat index of 105°F.
- Heat Alert: Declared on the second consecutive day with a heat index of 105°F.
- Excessive Heat Warning: Declared on the third consecutive day with a heat index of 105°F.
- Ozone Advisory: Issued when ground level ozone is high. People should limit their outdoor activity and those with respiratory problems (such as asthma) should be especially careful and avoid strenuous activity.
Subject matter experts: Information compiled by Joan Przybylowicz and Laura Copeland and Philadelphia Water Department, American Red Cross
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Fire
Fire spreads quickly. If fire breaks out in your home, there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.
Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A FIRE:
- Install smoke alarms
- Test smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries twice a year. Make it a habit when you turn your clocks ahead or back for Daylight Saving Time.
- Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years
- Plan and review escape routes from your home with your family. Practice escaping from each room.
- Make sure windows are not nailed or painted shut, and that security gratings or burglar bars on windows have a fire safety opening feature so they can be easily opened from the inside.
- Consider escape ladders if your residence has more than one level. and ensure that burglar bars and other antitheft mechanisms that block outside window entry are easily opened from the inside.
- Teach family members to stay low to the floor (where the air is safer) when escaping from a fire
- Install A-B-C-type fire extinguishers in your home and teach family members how to use them
- If you rent, buy renter's insurance
SURVIVING A FIRE:
- If a smoke detector goes off or if you notice a fire, remain calm. Get out as quickly as possible.
- Do not try to fight a major fire
- If your clothes catch on fire, STOP where you are, DROP to the ground, and ROLL over and over to smother the flames
- If you live in a high-rise apartment building, and the fire is not in your apartment, stay in your apartment. rather than go into Do not go into smoke-filled hallways
- Before attempting to open a door, feel it with the back of your hand. If they are hot, find another way out.
- Stay as close to the floor as possible-smoke and heat rise and the air is clearer and cooler near the floor
- Close all doors behind you
- Do not stop to get anything
- Do not use elevators
- Call 9-1-1 from a safe place such, as a neighbor's house
- If you are unable to get out for any reason, stay near a window and close to the floor. Close the door and stuff the bottom with a towel to keep out smoke.
- If possible, signal for help by waving a cloth or sheet outside the window
- For more fire safety information, visit the Philadelphia Fire Department website.
- Also, to learn more about fire safety, visit www.ready.gov.
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Flood
Flooding is the nation's most common natural disaster, and Pennsylvania has the highest flooding rate of any state in the United States.
It is important to know that not all floods are alike. Some can develop slowly during an extended period of rain, or in a warming trend following a heavy snow. Others, such as flash floods, can occur quickly, even without any rain in the immediate area.
Be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water, or downstream from a dam. Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding.
- If a flood occurs, go to high ground
- Never try to drive through deep water (even if it looks shallow)
- If you need to evacuate, grab your Go Bag and leave right away.
Learn more about what to expect during a flood on the American Red Cross website.
Read more about preparing for floods and staying informed at www.ready.gov.
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High-Rise Safety
Schools, businesses, and apartment buildings should all have site-specific emergency plans. It is important to know what those plans are and what your responsibilities might be during an emergency.
HIGH-RISE SAFETY TIPS:
- Know where the closest emergency exit is
- Be sure you know another way out in case your first choice is blocked
- Take cover under a desk or table if things are falling
- Move away from file cabinets, bookshelves or other things that might fall
- Face away from windows and glass
- Move away from exterior walls
- Determine if you should Shelter in Place or evacuate the building (link to Make a Kit)
- Listen for and follow instructions
- Take your Go Bag, unless there is reason to believe it has been contaminated
- Do not use elevators
- While going down stairwells, stay to the right to allow emergency workers to come up
Learn more about high rise safety at www.ready.gov.
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Hurricane
Hurricane season is the time of year when hurricanes are expected to form in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. It lasts from June through November.
During hurricanes, the weather may become severe and sometimes people may be asked to evacuate. The City will let local television and radio stations know if people should evacuate.
PREPARING FOR A HURRICANE
- Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a hurricane threats
- Hurricane Watch: Issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions in 24 to 36 hours
- Hurricane Warning: Issued when dangerously high water and rough seas are expected in 24 hours or less
- Plan how you will leave and where you will go if told to evacuate
- Have a Go Bag of emergency supplies ready in case you have to evacuate
- Secure your property
- To protect your windows from high winds, cover them with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down
- Keep all trees and shrubs well trimmed
- If you have a car, fill the gas tank in case you have to evacuate. (link to Make a Kit)
DURING A HURRICANE
- Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available
- Be alert for tornadoes (link to tornadoes) and flooding (link to flood)
- If you see a funnel cloud or if local authorities issue a tornado warning take shelter underground, if possible or in an interior room away from windows.
- If waters are rising quickly or local authorities issue a floor of flash flood warning, seek higher ground
Learn more about preparing for hurricanes at www.ready.gov.
Read more about hurricanes at the American Red Cross website.
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Influenza Pandemic
Pandemic Influenza is a global outbreak that could be caused by a new flu virus-not the seasonal flu that affects people every year. Pandemic influenza may spread easily from person to person, causing serious illness and affecting many people around the world in a short period of time. There is no pandemic influenza in the world at this time.
Avian influenza (bird flu) is an infection caused by a virus that occurs naturally in birds.
- Avian influenza is very contagious among birds and can make some domesticated birds, including chickens, ducks and turkeys very sick
- One type of bird flu, strain H5N1, can sometimes also infect other animals and people. The H5N1 virus has not occurred in birds, animals or people in the United States.
- At this time, the H5N1 bird flu virus is mainly a disease among birds. Millions of infected birds have been reported in Asia, Africa, the Pacific, Europe, and the Near East.
- Only a small number of humans (just over 200) have been infected-most by touching infected birds or contaminated surfaces
- No humans have gotten sick with H5N1 bird flu in the United States
- Health experts are monitoring the spread of H5N1 avian influenza and watching for the possibility for a human influenza pandemic to occur
- Although H5N1 is not easily spread from person to person, experts are concerned that the virus could change into one that can spread more easily between people
- It is hard to predict when the next pandemic may happen, but preparing now can limit its effects
- The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has worked with key partners to develop the Public Health Emergency Response Plan, which includes a Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan. The plan describes how the health department will work rapidly to detect pandemic influenza cases in Philadelphia, and outlines steps that will be taken to prevent the spread of the infection in the community.
Individuals and families, communities, and businesses should prepare for a pandemic just as they would prepare for any emergency.
If a pandemic occurs, it is likely to be a prolonged and widespread outbreak that could require temporary changes in many areas of society, such as schools, work, transportation and other public services.
- Make a plan (link to Make a Plan) to prepare. Talk with your family, friends and neighbors about plans for taking care of loved ones who may get sick.
- Get a Kit. (link to get a kit, shelter in place) Stock a supply of water and food. During a pandemic you may not be able to get to a store. Even if you can get to a store, it may be out of supplies. Public waterworks services may also be interrupted.
- Stocking supplies can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and disasters.
- Stay informed about pandemic influenza and be prepared to respond. Consult www.pandemicflu.gov frequently for updates on national and international information on pandemic influenza.
- Practice good health habits, including eating a balanced diet, exercising daily, and getting sufficient rest.
In addition, take common-sense steps to stop the spread of germs, including frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying away from others as much as possible when you are sick.
Learn more about Pandemic Influenza Preparedness in Philadelphia at phila.gov/ready.
Bird Flu – What You Need To Know PDF
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Nuclear Threat
A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and ground surfaces for miles around.
During a nuclear incident, it is important to avoid radioactive material, if possible. While experts predict that a nuclear attack at this time is less likely than other types, terrorism by its nature is unpredictable.
The World Health Organization recommends these steps if a nuclear blast occurs:
IF YOU ARE NEAR THE BLAST:
- Turn away and close and cover your eyes to prevent damage to your sight
- Drop to the ground face down and place your hands under your body
- Remain flat until the heat and two shock waves have passed
IF YOU ARE OUTSIDE WHEN THE BLAST OCCURS:
- Find something to cover your mouth and nose, such as a scarf, handkerchief, or other cloth
- Remove any dust from your clothes by brushing, shaking, and wiping in a ventilated area. However, cover your mouth and nose while you do this.
- Move to a shelter, basement, or other underground area, preferably located away from the direction that the wind is blowing.
- Remove clothing since it may be contaminated. If possible, take a shower, wash your hair, and change clothes before you enter the shelter.
IF YOU ARE ALREADY IN A SHELTER OR BASEMENT:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a face mask or other material (such as a scarf or handkerchief) until you know that the fallout cloud has passed.
- Shut off ventilation systems and seal doors or windows. After the fallout cloud has passed, unseal the doors and windows to allow some air circulation.
- Stay inside until authorities say it is safe to come out
- Listen to the local radio or television for information and advice. Authorities may direct you to stay in your shelter or evacuate to a safer place.
- If you must go out, cover your mouth and nose with a damp towel
- Use stored food and drinking water. Do not eat local fresh food or drink water from open water supplies.
- Clean and cover any open wounds on your body
IF YOU ARE ADVISED TO EVACUATE:
- Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for official news and instructions about when to evacuate, what routes to use, temporary shelters and procedures to follow. (link to Be Ready to Evacuate on Get a Kit page)
- Before you leave, close and lock windows and doors and turn off air conditioning, vents, fans, and furnace. Close fireplace dampers
- Take your Go Bag with you
Get more information about nuclear blasts and other radiation emergencies on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website www.cdc.gov.
Learn more about how to prepare for a nuclear emergency at www.ready.gov.
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Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms and lightning are most likely to develop on hot, humid days. Thunderstorms and lightning can be very dangerous, especially outdoors without proper protection. If lightning is seen or heard, take protective action immediately.
LEARN THE STORM TERMS:
- A thunderstorm watch: there is a possibility of a thunderstorm in your area.
- A thunderstorm warning: means a thunderstorm is occurring or will likely occur soon. If you are advised to take shelter, do so immediately.
STORM SAFETY:
- In a severe thunderstorm, take cover immediately
- DO NOT go near trees
- Avoid tall, isolated objects during a lightning storm
- Don't touch metal, electrical equipment, telephones, bathtubs, water faucets and sinks because lightning can follow the wires and pipes. Be especially careful with televisions.
- Never touch or go near downed power lines, even if you think they are safe
DURING SEVERE WEATHER:
- Wear the right clothes for the weather conditions
- Watch TV or listen to the radio so you know what to expect
- The National Weather Service broadcasts forecasts, warnings and other information 24 hours a day
- Special weather radios are available at local retail stores. Visit NOAA Watch for more weather-related information.
Learn more about preparing for thunderstorms and lightning at www.ready.gov.
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Tornadoes
Tornadoes are nature's most violent storms. They can appear suddenly without warning and can be invisible until dust and debris are picked up or a funnel cloud appears. Tornado winds can reach 300 miles per hour. They cause damage when they touch down on the ground. They can damage an area one mile wide and 50 miles long.
LEARN TORNADO TERMS:
- A tornado watch: means a tornado is possible in your area
- During a tornado watch, stay tuned to local radio and TV stations or a National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for further weather information.
- Watch the weather and be prepared to take shelter immediately if conditions worsen
- A tornado warning: is when a tornado is actually occurring
- You should take shelter immediately
TORNADO SAFETY:
Planning and practicing how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival. Be prepared to act quickly.
The most important thing to do is take shelter when a tornado is nearby
- Go to your basement or the lowest point of your home. If you can, go to an interior room or hallway without any windows.
- 8 If you cannot find shelter, take cover in a ditch or other deep area
- If you are asked to evacuate, grab your Go Bag and leave right away
- Watch TV or listen to the radio so you know what to expect. The National Weather Service broadcasts forecasts, warnings and other information 24 hours a day. Special weather radios are available at local retail stores.
- Never touch or go near downed power lines, even if you think they are safe
Learn more about preparing for tornadoes at www.ready.gov.
More information about preparing for tornadoes is also at www.cdc.gov.
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Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
Winter storms and blizzards can bring heavy snow, icy streets and sidewalks, and dangerous wind chills. Winter weather can knock out heat, power and communications services to your home or office, sometimes for days at a time.
WINTER STORMS CAN BE DEADLY
- Extreme cold can cause hypothermia (an extreme lowering of the body's temperature) and death
- Fireplaces, emergency heaters, and candles can cause household fires
- Toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide, from heaters can cause asphyxiation (unconsciousness or death from a lack of oxygen)
- Hazardous road conditions can cause car accidents
Prepare for a winter storm before it hits. Plan now: prepare your house and car; stock up on emergency supplies.
DRESS WARMLY AND STAY DRY:
- Wear hats, scarves, layers and water-repellent coats. Wear mittens instead of gloves; they are warmer.
- Make sure small children, especially babies, stay warm. Babies can easily become very sick from the cold even when adults are feeling warm enough.
COVER YOUR MOUTH:
- Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors
DON'T DO TOO MUCH EXERCISE OUTDOORS:
- Take your time while shoveling snow or pushing a car. Stretch before you go out. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and do not drink coffee or tea.
CAR SAFETY:
- Be sure to clear snow from your tail pipe before you start your car to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
SAFE HEATING:
- Many fires and emergencies happen in the City every year from unsafe heating. Call the Department of Licenses and Inspections at 215-686-2463 for a fire inspection if you are unsure whether your heat source is safe.
- If you rent and do not have heat, contact your building owner. If your heat does not come back on, contact the Department of Licenses and Inspections at 215-686-2463.
- Fuel-burning items (such as furnaces, boilers, hot water heaters and clothes dryers) should be working, ventilated and inspected by a professional regularly in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Electric heaters should be used with extreme caution to prevent shock, fire and burns
- To prevent fire, do not put anything close to your heater. Keep objects at least three feet from the heat source to prevent fire.
- Never use a gas oven or burner to heat your home
Learn more about preparing for winter storms and extreme cold at www.ready.gov.
More information about preparing for winter weather is also at www.cdc.gov.
Get ready for winter storms by learning more at the American Red Cross website.
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