Boo! Check Your Batteries

OEM recommends that New Yorkers change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year, like during daylight-saving times. This weekend brings the end of daylight-saving time along with Halloween: a certifiable double whammy. Check your batteries this weekend so you won't be haunted by disaster. Learn more about preventing fire Read more about carbon monoxide safety See OEM's Tip of the Week online

KNOCK PREPAREDNESS OUT OF THE PARK

As we head into the 2008 World Series, OEM asks New Yorkers to cover all of the preparedness bases. Be "safe at home" by following advice from some of New York's best emergency coaches. First Base: Learn about the hazards that affect New York City Second Base: Develop a household disaster plan Third Base: Gather supplies to stock emergency kits and Go Bags Home: Once you've hit all these marks, learn how you can get involved by educating your family and friends Learn more about Ready New York See OEM's Tip of the Week online

FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHT TO STAY WARM

With home heating season officially underway, OEM reminds New Yorkers what to do if they lose heat. All residents are entitled by law to adequate heat and hot water. If you lose heat or hot water: First speak with your building owner, manager, or superintendent. If the problem is not addressed, tenants should call 311 to lodge a complaint. In the absence of adequate heat, insulate your home as much as possible by hanging blankets over windows and doorways and dress warmly. Learn more about what to do if you lose heat Review the City's cold weather heat requirements (from HPD) See OEM's Tip of the Week online

STOP STOVETOP FIRES

It's Fire Prevention Week and OEM reminds New Yorkers to brush up on fire safety techniques, especially in the kitchen. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, 40 percent of home fires start in the kitchen. Never leave a lit stove unattended and make sure you have a smoke detector in the kitchen. When cooking, clear stovetops and nearby counters to prevent rapid spread of fire. Learn more about preparing for fires in New York City Learn more about fire safety from the National Fire Protection Agency See OEM's Tip of the Week online