Post your address to be visible from the street from both directions so emergency vehicles can find you. If you have a long driveway, post it at the driveway too. (Borough Code 11.20.060)

• In your home, install at least one smoke alarm inside each bedroom, outside of each sleeping area and one additional alarm on each additional living level, including the basement. If hallways are longer than 40 feet between the sleeping and living areas, use two smoke alarms. Test every month and replace batteries twice a year.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor and in the utility room and/or garage where the furnace and water heater are located. Test monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• Keep at least one ABC type fire extinguisher on each level of your home. Learn how and when to use them. Check the pressure gauges annually to ensure they are fully charged.
• Keep hallways and exits clear for easy evacuation. Ensure that all window safety bars have emergency releases.
• Each bedroom should have two exits: the doorway and a window. Bedrooms with only one entrance are not recommended.
• Ensure that tall, large or heavy furnishings in your home are equipped with earthquake straps, available at most hardware stores. Move heavy objects to lower shelves and install cabinet door latches. Strap down expensive electronics.
• Strap down your water heater so it won’t tip over in an earthquake. Propane tanks and fuel oil tanks must be properly bolted down and have proper cradles. (See Earthquake for more information.)
• Make sure your water heater has a flexible supply line. Contact a licensed plumber to install one if necessary.
• Store hazardous chemicals (e.g. gasoline, bleach, paint thinners) away from open flames and secure them to prevent spills. Do NOT store gasoline, propane, or other flammables in the garage or other location where water heater or furnace pilot lights may ignite fumes.
• Limit, Isolate, Eliminate and Separate these items. Keep at little on hand as possible to prevent accidents. The best location is in a shed 30 feet from the home.
• Install a back-up heat supply. Natural gas furnaces, propane and many fuel oil heaters have electronic igniters. These may not work when the power is out. Invest in a wood stove or other indoor safe heater for winter use during a power outage.
• Know if you are on a well and septic system, city water and sewer, or other (small water utility) system. Know what your will do if the power goes out or your system is damaged by earthquake or flood.