Hurricane Irene devastated the East Coast with power loss, flooding, destruction of property, injuries and deaths. But dangers still exist for East Coast residents even after Irene has taken her final bow. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) have released a set of warnings for residents of hurricane-impacted areas, which outline multiple dangers and safety measures that should not be ignored:
- Never use portable gas-powered generators indoors, including garages, basements or sheds, even if doors and windows are left open. The high carbon monoxide (CO) levels of the exhaust can build up without any notice, causing imminent incapacitation or death.
- Never use camp stoves or charcoal grills indoors. Using either of these in an enclosed space can produce deadly levels of CO.
- Install CO alarms on every level of your home and outside each bedroom or sleeping area. Make sure to change the batteries every year.
- Stay away from any and all downed wires as they may be live and can easily cause electrocution. Also, never handle any electrical appliances if you are standing in water or are near water. Do not try to turn any electrical components on if they have been under water.
- Be very cautious when using candles. Never place them on or around flammable surfaces or materials and never leave them unattended. Battery-powered or self-charging LED flashlights and/or lanterns are best.
In the aftermath of any natural disaster, people depend on emergency appliances and products to get them through the difficult time of recovery. If these products are defective, they can cause additional emergency situations. If you have been injured or your situation worsened by a defective product in Maryland, the knowledgeable Maryland product liability attorney Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” can help you get the compensation you need to fully recover your losses. Call Mr. Heisler today to learn more about your legal rights at (877) 228-4878.
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