Keep in Touch this Holiday Season

As you get in touch with out-of-town family members and friends to wish them a joyous holiday season, ask one to be your family's emergency contact. During a disaster, long-distance calls often go through even when local lines are busy. Calling someone out of state can allow you to relay an important message to loved ones and stay connected with others.
Get more tips on communicating during an emergency, and how to stay prepared
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Warm Up Your Home the Right Way

Winter officially begins next week. Do you have a way to keep warm? Before you get cozy, make sure you heat your home safely by following these tips:

• Maintain your fireplace by having your chimney inspected, and keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening.
• If you use other heat sources like space heaters, remember to use portable heating equipment that is approved for indoor use - improper use of portable heating equipment can lead to fire or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
• Never drape clothes over a space heater to dry.
• Never use the kitchen oven or gas range to heat your home or apartment.
• Every resident is entitled to heat and hot water. Tenants without adequate heat or hot water should first speak with the building owner, manager, or superintendent. If the problem is not corrected, tenants should call 311.

For more tips on home heating safety, check out NYC Emergency Management's Winter Weather Health & Safety Tips page
For tips on how to stay cozy and save money this winter, check out GreeNYC's Stay Cozy campaign
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Candles Are No Match for Flashlights

A common misconception we would like to extinguish: using candles for emergencies. Candles can cause fires, especially when left unattended. Flashlights, on the other hand, last longer and are safer to use. If you do burn candles for religious or decorative purposes, take the steps to ensure you're safe. Keep candles away from curtains or other flammable materials and make sure they are in secure metal, glass, or ceramic holders.
Check out additional candle safety tips from FDNYSmart.org
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End of Hurricane Season, but Not Emergencies

Hurricane season may be ending, but that shouldn't stop you from being prepared. New York City is no stranger to the forces of nature, and disaster can strike at any time. The day before an emergency is like any other day. Take the time to plan ahead now so you and your loved ones are ready for anything.
Find out how you can plan for hazards
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Give Thanks and Donate

With the holiday season upon us, give a little extra thanks. Consider helping others by making a financial contribution to an agency involved in disaster relief. Cash donations allow agencies to make purchases for survivors' precise needs. What's more, cash donations to recognized relief organizations are also tax deductible.
Learn more about making donations
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Fight the Flu

This season, don't let the flu knock you down. Fight back by arming yourself with smart habits. These small steps can go a long way: get a flu shot, frequently wash your hands with soap and water, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze (remember to use a tissue or the inside of your elbow - not your hand!).
Learn more about flu prevention and staying healthy this season
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When the Lights Go Out, Power On

Power outages can occur any time of the year. As we approach the start of winter, make sure you stay chill by being prepared:

Contact your power provider immediately to report the outage.

Unplug or turn off any appliances that may turn on automatically when service is restored.

Hang blankets over the windows and doorways to insulate your home.

Be careful not to overload electrical circuits.

Learn more about what to do during a power outage
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Be Ready Before the Rubber Meets the Road

Did you know your home isn't the only place for an emergency supply kit? This Winter Weather Awareness Week, make sure you're ready on the road by having a kit in the event of an in-car emergency. Booster cables, window scrapers, blankets/warm clothing, and newspapers for insulation are just a few items to have on hand.
Learn more about preparing your car and other items for a winter emergency
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Hurricane Season is Still Here; Be Prepared

Three years ago, Hurricane Sandy made landfall in New York City and was unlike any storm in the city's history. And while Hurricane Joaquin may have missed New York City this year, both of these storms are reminders that New Yorkers need to be ready (and stay ready) by having a plan. Make sure you know your hurricane evacuation zone, how a hurricane can affect you and your property, and the steps you can take to be prepared.

Visit the Know Your Zone website for tips and information
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Don't Strike Out; Practice Makes Perfect!

Don't Strike Out; Practice Makes Perfect!
As the World Series approaches, don't strike out; think about hitting a home run in preparedness. Gather your team (or emergency support network) and practice your emergency plan. You can also teach others what to do so when an emergency happens, you'll have your bases covered.
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Explore NYC with the Map Gallery

A city like New York may be hard to navigate. Channel your inner Magellan and explore NYC.gov's Map Gallery, designed to make living in New York City easier. The gallery provides information and resources ranging from hurricane evacuation zones to city resources near you, and more.
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Testing, Testing 1, 2, 3

Have you ever tested your smoke alarm? This Fire Prevention Week, "hear the beep when you sleep" by giving your smoke alarms some TLC. Test your alarms once a month to make sure they are working properly, and replace the batteries every year. To learn more about fire safety (and how to be fire smart), visit FDNY online.
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