Appliances - Indoor Safety

Purpose - Natural gas appliances make life convenient. They are used primarily to heat water, wash laundry and cook dinner.

Dangers - Gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevention -

• Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• If an appliance is not working correctly, stop using it. Get it fixed.

Emergency - Follow the emergency procedures if:

• There is a fire.
• You smell gas.
• You suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

Water heaters -

• To prevent scalding, water heaters should be set no higher than 120° F.
• Steps 2, 3 and 4 of the eight-point furnace check should also be done on gas water heaters.

Large appliances -

• Keep stoves clean.
• Keep a kitchen fire extinguisher handy.
• Keep filters clean. Keep the space underneath free of dust.