SPACE HEATERS NEED SPACE

As winter approaches and temperatures in the city plummet, OEM reminds New Yorkers to take proper precautions with home heating. Improperly used heating equipment is the leading cause of fires in New York City during the winter months. Position space heaters at least three feet away from furniture, drapes, and other flammable materials. Never leave space heaters on overnight. Never plug space heaters in with an extension cord. Never leave a child alone with an active space heater. Allow space heaters to cool before storing. Learn more about safe home heating Read the Fire Department's advice on safe home heating Read the Tip of the Week online

Squirrel Away Food for an Emergency

While shopping for Thanksgiving, pick up some extra water and canned goods to add to your emergency supply kit. It is important to have extra water and non-perishable food stored at home in case you need to shelter in place, like during a blizzard or a power outage. Remember, you don't have to assemble an emergency supply kit in one shopping trip. Instead, buy an extra can of food or pick up some additional water during regular trips to the store. Learn more about preparing for emergencies with Ready New York Read the Tip of the Week online

WINTER'S NOT FAR, WINTERIZE YOUR CAR

New York City has gotten a taste of winter in the last two weeks, so OEM encourages New Yorkers to prepare for the winter season ahead. Along with cold air, winter brings snow, slick roads, and falling ice. Traveling by car can become especially difficult. Before the winter weather sets in, it's important to prepare your car if you have one. Here's how: Create an emergency supply kit to keep in your car and include a blanket, a bag of sand, booster cables, and other things you may want if you're stuck on the road. Have a mechanic check your car's battery, brakes, exhaust, antifreeze, and oil level, and any other parts that may be affected by cold weather. Install winter tires that have adequate tread. Always stay tuned to local media so you know when it is unsafe to drive. Learn other ways to winterize Read the Tip of the Week online

FIGHT FLU BEFORE FLU FIGHTS YOU

Flu season is here and OEM and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene remind New Yorkers to get flu shots this year. It is especially important for the following groups to get flu shots due to risk of complications: People over 50 Children from age six months to five years People with chronic medical conditions Pregnant women Healthcare workers who provide direct patient care By getting a flu shot you can protect yourself, as well as those around you. You can also stop the spread of flu in other ways: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing Stay home if you are sick with a fever and cough Read the press release Visit the Health Department online Read the Tip of the Week online