Hurricane Hazards

Installing hurricane shutters is essential for storm protection, but leaving them up after the storm has passed can be a serious safety hazard. While it may seem convenient to leave them up after the first storm has passed, it could put lives at risk in the event of a fire or emergency.

Each year, there are over 330,000 home fires in the Unites States, causing nearly 3,000 deaths and over 10,000 injuries. The difference between life and death in fires is rapid escape.

Here are some reasons to remove hurricane shutters after a storm:

• Ensure a safe escape – Hurricane shutters can block emergency exits, making it harder to evacuate quickly
• Easy access for first responders – Firefighters need clear access to rescue occupants during an emergency
• Prevent other safety hazards – Hurricane shutters should be used only for storm protection, not as long-term security devices

As a reminder, open hurricane shutters once the storm threat is over. If using plywood, remove it immediately after the weather clears.

Hurricane preparedness is crucial, but so is everyday safety. Once the danger passes, remove or open your shutters to keep your home safe and accessible.

In the event of a hurricane, it may be necessary to store gasoline within your residence for the purpose of operating a gasoline-powered generator in the event of a power outage or for fueling your vehicle. Gasoline is a highly hazardous substance and must be stored properly to prevent fire and poisoning. Here are some tips for safe residential storage of fuel:

• Store in an approved container, holding five gallons or less, that can be found at the local hardware store
• A maximum of 25 gallons per structure is allowed in one- and two-family homes, not per household. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks and flames. A detached garage or shed is ideal. Storage within a building is restricted to rooms with fire-rated separation from the other areas, like a garage or storage room with an exterior door. No additional equipment or utilities should be in this space. Never store gasoline near appliances such as clothes dryers, water pumps, generators or vehicles
• Keep gasoline containers out of reach from children and pets to prevent accidental poisoning. Make sure containers have child-resistant caps

Never pour gasoline down drains, on the ground, or in the trash. It is illegal to dispose of gasoline in Miami-Dade County waterways, including oceans, bays, rivers, lakes, and canals.

The best way to handle leftover gasoline is to use it in your car or gasoline-powered equipment. If you cannot use it yourself, give it to a responsible adult who can use it. If you are unable to use the fuel or give it away for appropriate use, you may dispose of gasoline at one of Miami-Dade County’s Home Chemical Collections Centers.

Miami-Dade County's Home Chemical Collections Centers will accept a maximum of 10 gallons (two 5-gallon containers) per customer in approved containers. The gasoline must be left in its container with an HCC technician.

For more information, visit the Home Chemical Collections Centers or call the Miami-Dade Fire Prevention Office at 786-331-4800.

As you prepare for a hurricane, you might notice clutter that has built up around your home, both inside and out. Loose outdoor items can turn into projectiles when strong winds hit during a storm.

Clutter can also be a major obstacle for firefighters trying to navigate a burning home. In a fire, thick smoke eliminates visibility, and firefighters must rely on their training to feel their way through unfamiliar layouts. When excessive clutter blocks their path, rescue efforts slow down, putting lives at risk.

Clutter not only impedes escape and rescue but fuels fires, causing them to spread rapidly. Common clutter includes stacks of newspapers, magazines, and books, which are highly flammable and can intensify fires, and piles of clothes and boxes, which can block exits and create additional hazards.

A little organization can make your home safer for both your family and first responders. Consider these steps:

• Minimize clutter by regularly discarding items you don’t need
• Keep large collections of items in a garage, shed or designated storage space instead of high-traffic areas
• Walk through your home and make sure all escape routes are accessible, especially for children, elderly or disabled occupants

A clear path to safety benefits everyone, including firefighters trying to save lives. Take a few moments to assess and reduce clutter as it could make all the difference in an emergency.