3. Have on hand simple tools and equipment needed for fire fighting.
(See page 43.)


AFTER A NATURAL DISASTER

_Use extreme caution in entering or working in buildings_ that may have
been damaged or weakened by the disaster, as they may collapse without
warning. Also, there may be gas leaks or electrical short circuits.

_Don't bring lanterns, torches or lighted cigarettes_ into buildings
that have been flooded or otherwise damaged by a natural disaster, since
there may be leaking gas lines or flammable material present.

_Stay away from fallen or damaged electric wires_, which may still be
dangerous.

_Check for leaking gas pipes in your home_. Do this by _smell only_--
don't use matches or candles. If you smell gas, do this: (1) Open all
windows and doors, (2) Turn off the main gas valve at the meter, (3)
Leave the house immediately, (4) Notify the gas company or the police or
fire department, (5) Don't re-enter the house until you are told it is
safe to do so.

_If any of your electrical appliances are wet_, first turn off the main
power switch in your house, then unplug the wet appliance, dry it out,
reconnect it, and finally, turn on the main power switch. (Caution:
Don't do any of these things while _you_ are wet or standing in water.)
If fuses blow when the electric power is restored, turn off the main