Hurricane Sandy has left thousands of New Jersey residents without power and home heating. Here are some safety tips you can use to KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE.

PORTABLE SPACE HEATERS

• The use of kerosene or propane space heaters is strictly prohibited and illegal to use in New York City.
• Kerosene and propane space heaters pose a high risk of death and injury, and generate carbon monoxide.
• Only use portable electric heaters that are certified and approved by a recognized testing lab, such as UL.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from combustible materials, such as blankets, curtains and newspapers.
• Never leave portable heaters unattended, and never leave the house or go to bed without turning off the heater.

PORTABLE GENERATOR USE

• Be sure to place the generator outdoors where exhaust fumes will not enter an enclosed space.
  Never place generators indoors as generators create carbon monoxide (CO).
• Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas and is the second leading cause of accidental poisoning.
• Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in proper working order.
• Do not connect your generator directly to your home wiring system.
• Use a certified heavy-duty, extension cord to connect your generator to an appliance.
• Extension cords come in a variety of sizes known as gauges. The most common gauges are 18,16,14,12 &10. The lower the gauge the more electrical current (amps) the wire can carry.
• Do not overload the generator. Do not exceed the electrical output rating of the generator.
• Power strips and surge suppressors do not provide more power, just access to the same limited capacity of the generator.
• Shut off the engine before refueling and have a charged extinguisher located near the generator.
• Do not smoke or use any item that can cause a spark anytime you are refueling a generator.
• Use only approved gasoline storage containers.