Don’t Be Fooled By An Emergency

Did you know that new coat of paint might unintentionally seal a window shut? April Fools' Day is around the corner, but an emergency is no time to be foolish. Be sure to test all of your evacuation routes before you need them. Learn how to make an emergency plan See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Clear Your Fire Escape and Ease Your Mind

In the spirit of spring cleaning, OEM reminds New Yorkers to keep fire escapes clear of obstacles. Though open space is hard to resist in this city, storing bicycles, grills, and large planters on a fire escape can make it difficult for you and your neighbors to evacuate. Don't let your possessions get in the way of your safety. Download the Fire Department's Safety Tips for Apartments Read more about fire safety See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Avoid Being Washed Up

March 16 - 20 is Flood Safety Awareness Week, according to the National Weather Service. This week OEM encourages New Yorkers to take a few minutes each day to reduce flood damage risk. For instance, if you assess your home's flood risk at FloodSmart, clear neighborhood catch basins before a forecasted rain, or pack Go Bags for all household members, you can save time and money when you are cleaning up after a flood. Download Ready New York: Flooding Read more about flood hazards See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Recall the Recall This Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time serves as a reminder to check and refresh the batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. This year, in addition to checking batteries, OEM has a special task for all you Ready New Yorkers replenishing your supplies: cross-check the food products in your emergency supplies with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration's (FDA) recall list. Remember, foods like granola, snack bars, crackers, and even noodles may contain peanut products, and therefore may not be safe. Learn more about FDA recalls See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Take It Slow In The Snow

As the snow piles up, OEM reminds New Yorkers to ease into the tasks ahead. Cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unfamiliar exercise, such as shoveling snow or pushing a car, can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse. Follow these tips to stay safe and healthy while working outdoors: Stretch and warm up your body before shoveling snow to prevent injury. Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors. Take frequent rest breaks and drink plenty of fluids to avoid overexertion and dehydration. Offer to help individuals who require special assistance, including seniors and people with disabilities. Remember to maintain an awareness of utilities when shoveling snow. Do not cover fire hydrants with snow when clearing sidewalks and driveways. Do not shovel snow into manholes and catch basins. The City needs its infrastructure functioning properly to weather the storm. Learn more winter weather tips See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website