Handling household emergencies requires preparation, knowledge

“No homeowner should be caught unprepared. By knowing the major systems in a home and how to maintain them, a major accident could be prevented,” said Aimee Dixon Plumlee, Springfield-area director of HouseMaster Home Inspections, in a news release.

To help homeowners gauge their emergency response readiness, HouseMaster has compiled a household emergency response quiz. Take the quiz and check your answers below to see how prepared you are for an emergency. No cheating!

1. You notice water leaking from the bottom of your water heater. The first thing you should do is:

A. Lay several large towels around the tank to absorb the leaking water until you can schedule a plumber to visit.

B. Turn on the faucets in all tubs and shower stalls to run down the level of the leaking tank.

C. Shut off the water supply line to the water heater.

D. Adjust the water heater’s temperature setting to the “off” position.

2. Everyone in your family experiences sudden flu-like symptoms for no apparent reason. You should:

A. Suspect possible carbon monoxide poisoning and have everyone leave the house immediately.

B. Assume a serious flu bug has entered your home. Spray extensively with antibacterial agents and monitor everyone’s condition.

C. Change or clean the filter in your vacuum cleaner and thoroughly vacuum the house, particularly the bedrooms.

D. Change the air filters in your cooling and heating systems.

3. During winter months you notice condensation on the insides of your windows and slight water build-up on the windowsills. You should:

A. Place towels on the sills to eliminate this temporary condition.

B. Make sure all windows and doors are closed tightly to keep out damp outdoor air.

C. Set your thermostat five degrees higher until the heat dries out the moisture.

D. Maintain a reasonable thermostat setting and make sure there is a periodic circulation of fresh air.

4. A stranger is in need of medical assistance. After calling 911 and confirming help is on the way, you should:

A. Look around for ice that could help to numb any pain or swelling from which the individual may be suffering.

B. Go through their belongings and look for any personal items that may fall into the wrong hands.

C. Check the individual’s cell phone for a contact number designated ICE, for “In Case of Emergency,” and pass this number along to rescue services as soon as possible.

D. Leave. You’ve done your part by calling the authorities.

Tallying the score:

1. Your first step should be option C, to shut off the water supply to the tank and call a plumber. If possible, the gas or electricity supply also should be turned off. And while you’re waiting, you can mop up the water or drain the tank if water continues to leak. A water heater tank may hold 40 or more gallons of water and is continually refurbished with fresh water. If the leak increases or the tank ruptures, you could be faced with a serious water problem.

2. The answer is A, to leave the house immediately. Such symptoms could be indicative of a carbon monoxide build-up in your home, which could prove a serious threat to you and your family. Also call 911 for emergency personnel to treat anyone if needed, and test the house for carbon monoxide. Leave doors open on the way out to help dilute any possible buildup.

3. Option D, to maintain a reasonable thermostat setting and make sure there is a periodic circulation of fresh air, is the correct answer. The condensation is likely due to a high humidity level. During the winter, when houses are closed up reasonably tight, moisture from showering and cooking, as well as respiration, raises the indoor moisture level. If the windows are cold enough, the moisture will condense out, fogging the windows and creating the water found on the sills.

Proper temperature levels and ventilation will help maintain a more moderate humidity level. If the condition continues, the efficiency of the windows and the operation of the heating system also should be checked.

4. The correct answer is C. Check the person’s cell phone for an ICE contact. This is an excellent way to find out not only a person’s identity, but also medical history. If emergency personnel are delayed, it might be prudent to call the number in case you could be of assistance.

[[In-content Ad]]