News Release Contact: Kimberly J. Evans 555 Wright Way Carson City, Nevada 89711 Office: (775) 684-4554 Pager: (775) 861-5897

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 8, 1999

NEWS FROM: Nevada State Fire Marshal 99-185

Nevada State Fire Marshal Offers Fire-Safe Millenium Tips

US Fire Administration Provides Valuable Information to Address Potential Y2K Temporary Service Disruptions

"Address fire safety issues before any possible service disruptions occur that may be related to the rollover to the year 2000," is the message from Nevada State Fire Marshal Marvin Carr. Reduce your chance of experiencing a fire-related fatality or injury by following these safety tips provided by the US Fire Administration:

Generator Safety

Generators are often used during power outages. When using a generator remember to:

• Always read and following manufacturer's instructions and guidelines.
• Only use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. Carbon monoxide fumes, released by the generator, are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
• Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
• Never run cords under rugs or carpet where heat might build up or damage to a cord my go unnoticed.
• Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or "back feed" can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

Heating Safety

Research suggests more than one-third of home fires in the US occur during the winter months of December, January, and February. One of the reasons these months pose a magnified fire threat is due to increased use of heating sources, such as chimneys and wood stoves. Because Y2K will occur during this time of increased fire threat, it is particularly important to follow these heating safety tips:

• Do not use the kitchen oven range to heat your home. In addition to being a fire hazard, it can be a source of toxic fumes.
• Alternative heaters need their space. Keep anything combustible at least 3 feet away.
• Kerosene heaters may not be legal in your area and should only be used where approved by authorities.
• Make sure your alternative heaters have "tip switches." These tip switches are designed to automatically turn off the heater in the event they tip over.
• Only use the type of fuel recommended by the manufacturer and follow suggested guidelines.
• Remember to keep all combustible liquids away from heat sources. Example: Never fill a gas can next to your water heater. The pilot light in the water heater can easily ignite the gasoline.
• Never refill a space heater while it is operating or still hot. Refuel heaters only indoors.
• Make sure wood stoves are properly installed, and at least 3 feet away from combustible materials. Ensure they have the proper floor support and adequate ventilation.
• Use a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from igniting nearby carpets, furniture or other combustible items.

Lighting

• Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand in case of a power outage.
• Don't use candles for emergency lighting.

Cooking Safety

• In case the power fails, plan to use alternative cooking devices in accordance with manufacture's instructions.
• Never use open flames or grills indoors.

Never Stockpile Fuel or Flammable Liquids

• For those who feel the need to stock disaster supplies, we remind you that it is extremely dangerous to stockpile any liquid fuels such as gasoline, kerosene or lantern fluid..

Smoke Alarms

• Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up battery and install a new battery at least once a year.

"Check with the fire department in your area to see if they can provide more information about how your community is preparing for any potential Y2K problems," says Carr, who encourages families to consider purchasing approved smoke detectors and home fire extinguishers to make their home fire safe all year round.

For more information, contact the Nevada State Fire Marshal at (775) 687-4290.

###