Page 5 - Fall 2023 BPU Connection PDF - FINAL

THE PERFECT SEASON TO PREPARE…T SEASON TO PREPARE…T SEASON TO PREPARE…
THE PERFEC
THE PERFEC

Prevent Carbon Lower Your Water

Monoxide Exposure Temperature

This Winter

Carbon Monoxide (CO) exposure occurs more
often during the colder months when people
are more likely to use gas furnaces, heaters,
stoves, and generators in their homes. CO fumes
from these sources can build up in enclosed spaces,
resulting in 100,000 poisonings and approximately 450
deaths every year. Protect yourself and your family by learning
the symptoms of CO poisoning and how to prevent it.
• DO have your heating system, • DON’T use a generator, charcoal grill,
water heater and any other camp stove, or other gasoline or Water heating accounts for 18% of a
gas, oil, or coal burning charcoal-burning device inside your home’s energy use, typically the 2nd
appliances serviced by a home, basement, or garage or near a largest energy expense. There are several
qualified technician every year. window. ways to reduce your water heating bills,
• DO install a battery-operated • DON’T run a car or truck inside a garage while also helping conserve this natural
CO detector in your home and attached to your house, even if you leave resource:
check or replace the battery the door open. • Turn down the thermostat on your water
when you change the time on heater to the “warm” setting (120°F).
your clocks each spring and fall. • DON’T burn anything in a stove or • Insulate your water heater and pipes.
fireplace that isn’t vented.
• DO seek prompt medical • Buy a new, more efficient model or type
attention if you suspect CO • DON’T heat your house with a gas oven. of water heater.
poisoning and are feeling • DON’T use a generator, pressure washer, • Use less water. Take shorter showers, use
dizzy, light-headed, or or any gasoline-powered engine less than your dishwasher/washing machine for
nauseous. 20 feet from any window, door, or vent. full loads only, etc.

General Safety Reminders

Inspect Extension Cords Rake Dry Leaves Test Smoke Alarms

With the holidays approaching, you When leaves begin falling from trees, Always make sure your smoke alarms
may want to use extension cords. sweep them away from outdoor are in working order – ensuring if an
Always check cords for damage, and outlets, light fixtures, and power cords. electrical fire does break out, you and
make sure any used outdoors are Dry leaves can catch fire if hit with a your family are properly warned before
“weather-rated”. If using multiple cords, spark. Keep your outdoor a/c unit clean the fire grows too big.
be sure and use surge protectors to and clear of any autumn debris as well.
provide internal load protection. Use Electric Blankets Safely
Be Careful Using Electrical
Check Cold Weather Tools Devices Outdoors Make sure the blanket is in good
condition – checking the power cord
Electrical tools that may be used as it Make sure electrical devices used for cracks, cuts, or fraying. Never put
gets colder, like leaf blowers, should outside are weatherproof, and only anything on top of an electric blanket
be checked for unusual wear and tear use GFCI outlets with bubble covers to when it’s in use.
and have their power cords replaced or keep moisture out and protect against
repaired if they show damage.
shock.

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