Resolve to be Ready in 2013

As the year comes to a close and you make resolutions for a better 2013, Resolve to be Ready for emergencies. Download our 2013 Resolve to Be Ready NYC Calendar to receive monthly tips to help you develop an effective all-hazards emergency plan for you and your loved ones. While you're at it, sign up for Notify NYC, and commit to making 2013 the year you become prepared.

Download the Resolve to Be Ready Calendar
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Call Cousin Diana in Savannah

In the event of an emergency, long-distance calls will often go through even when local lines are busy. Having an out-of-state contact, such as a friend or relative, can help you relay important messages to your loved ones. Make sure that everyone in the circle has each other's contact information. Don't delay — choose your out-of-state contact today.

Learn more about communicating in an emergency
Read OEM's Tip of the Week online

Give to Those Affected by Sandy

Holidays are a time of giving. As you complete your holiday to-do list, consider making a cash donation to help those affected by Sandy. Cash donations are preferable to in-kind donations because they allow relief agencies to make purchases that meet New Yorkers' precise needs. What's more, cash donations to recognized relief organizations are tax deductible.

Donate to those affected by Sandy through the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City
Read OEM's Tip of the Week online

Don't Use Your Stove to Heat Your Home

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, many New Yorkers are still without heat. As temperatures drop, it is important to remember never to use a gas stove to heat your home. When not properly vented, gas stoves (along with other fuel-burning appliances) can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas. When inhaled, carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in your blood, making it lethal even in small quantities. Minimize your risk for carbon monoxide poisoning by making sure that you have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home.

Learn more about carbon monoxide from the Department of Health
Learn more about smoke and carbon monoxide alarms from FDNY
Read OEM's Tip of the Week online

(Safely) Deck the Halls

Home and office decorations are a tradition around the holidays, but they can pose a fire hazard if not properly managed. Take these extra steps to reduce the risk this season:

-Use only nonflammable or flame-retardant decorations.
-Inspect your holiday lights for frayed wires, gaps, or excessive wear.
-Do not overload electrical outlets.
-Do not block entrances or exits to your home with decorations.
-If you are celebrating Christmas and have purchased a real tree, be sure to keep it well watered. Dry Christmas trees account for hundreds of house fires annually.

Learn more about holiday fire safety from FDNY
Read more about Christmas tree safety from FDNY
Read OEM's Tip of the Week online