Safety Tips

Hurricanes

Remove yard hazards before a storm is coming and before your regularly scheduled yard waste/bulk items collection day.
Keep trees trimmed.
Remain inside. Shelter yourself in most interior room on bottom floor.
Review evacuation and family communication plans and assemble disaster supply kit.
Monitor local media and NOAA weather radio for progress reports.
Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company.

Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of a tornado. Keep a close eye on the weather in your area.
- Stay tuned to radio or TV for updates.
- Be prepared to take shelter.
Tornado Warning:A Tornado has been sighted by a trained weather spotter or one is indicated on radar. Take cover immediately!
- Head for the designated shelter or central area on the lowest floor of the building.
- Leave vehicles and mobile homes at once. Seek shelter in a sturdy building.

Prevent fire hazards by storing flammable liquids and paints in a flammable storage cabinet.
Never leave kitchen unattended while cooking.
Create and practice a family escape plan with a designated family meeting place.

Check smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries every 6 months.
Photoelectric detectors are recommended by Winter Garden Fire Rescue. Photoelectric smoke detectors have a greater ability to quickly detect slow, smoldering fires compared to ionization alarms.
Smoke detectors should be located close to all sleeping areas.

Always be aware, terrorist incidents can happen anywhere. In an emergency, always dial 9-1-1. Want to find out how you can anonymously report a non-emergency crime tip to the Winter Garden Police Department? click here.

Call 9-1-1 to report any visible arching or fire from down power lines or transformers and remain inside.
Outages may be extended, especially during severe weather.
Do not run generators in a garage or house. Generator exhaust creates carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and exposure can cause immediate health issues and death.
Always ensure that your stove, iron, or other appliances that create heat are turned off following a power outage. When power is restored these appliances could cause a fire hazard.