Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/516237
A few safety precautions can help reduce the risk of fire following an earthquake Into the Fire Before an earthquake • Know where the utility shut-off valves are located in your home. These include water, gas and electricity. • Ensure flammable and open-flame items (cleaning solvents, barbecues, gas-powered lawnmowers, etc.) are self-contained and stored a safe distance from easily combustible objects (laundry, wood pile, paper, etc.). • If you're concerned you may not smell a gas leak, install a battery-powered natural gas (methane) alarm to alert you when a dangerous level of gas is detected. • Seek advice from a professional to properly attach anchors to all your gas appliances, especially the hot water tank, which should be strapped to the wall. Even slight tremors can knock down a full tank, which can weigh up to 180 kilograms. You might also consider installing a flexible gas-supply line that will be less prone to rupture if stressed. • Consider having appropriate sensors added to gas appliances – either a seismic shut-off valve (which detects tremors) or a gas detector (for gas leaks) installed by a professional. Either sensor will automatically shut off the gas supply if a problem is detected. iStock summer 2015 bCa a .Com 27 prep talk at home W e experience thousands of minor earthquakes every year in B.C. Hopefully you've got your emergency kit and evacuation plan in place in the event of a larger quake. However, Emergency BC cautions that once the shaking stops, you need to watch out for potentially greater dangers, especially fires that result from downed power lines or broken gas pipes. Even after a modest earthquake, a fire can be a possible risk. The good news is that there are steps you can take before an earthquake, and precautions afterwards, to protect your home and minimize the chances of you, your loved ones or your home being harmed by a fire. Here are 10 tips from Fortis BC and BC Hydro on how to stay safe from fires after an earthquake. DID YOU KNOW? It takes just minutes to get a quote on BCAA's Award Winning Home Insurance and start your coverage. Plus, Members can save up to 15%! bcaa.com/home FOR MORE TIPS and information on preparing for an earthquake, visit bcaa.com/earthquake after an earthquake • If you smell gas (an odour like sulphur or rotten eggs) or suspect damage to gas pipes, turn the gas off if it's safe and easy for you to do so. otherwise, act quickly and get outside. • Don't strike matches until you're fully aware of your immediate post- earthquake surroundings. There may be a gas leak or spilled flammable materials nearby. • Don't turn on any appliances or light switches to avoid power surges, which could start a fire when power is restored. • Stay at least 10 metres away from fallen power lines. Assume all power lines are energized and could potentially start a fire. • Don't use your fireplace. an open flame is dangerous as the ground and buildings continue to shake and settle during aftershocks. n – Catherine Tse