South Plainfield Fire Department

123 Maple Avenue

South Plainfield, NJ07080

(908) 769-9817 – Fire Chief Del Negro

(908) 756-4761 – Fire Prevention, Fire Official Abbruzzese

Safety tips for residents following flooding conditions 4/17/2007:

Unfortunately many residents of South Plainfield suffered damages that were a result of a large rain storm on 15 April 2007. Many homes are faced with partially to fully flooded basements and other weather related issues. The natural gas and electric utilities to some homes had to be shut down to prevent further damage due to rising flood waters. The following information will provide some basic safety tips when dealing with hazards during the water cleanup efforts.

Flooded basements:

  • There are many electrical connections and appliances in basements. Insure that if flooding conditions exist in the structure that the electrical supplies (circuit breakers or fuses) to any affected devices are shut down prior to attempting to walk in flooded areas. If appliances are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Then, unplug appliances and let them dry out. Have appliances checked by a professional before using them again. Also, have the electrical system checked by acertified electrician before turning the power back on.
  • When removing water from basements insure that the structural stability of the foundation and wall supports will not be compromised due to weakened or damaged walls. It is recommended that a professional contractor perform this function and provide structural supports if required.
  • Do not operate electrical devices while standing if flooded environments.
  • Some basements are being used for storage of flammable (gasoline) in containers rated and unrated. Please refrain from storage of any flammable liquids as well as the refueling of any heating or water removal device within the structure.
  • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.
  • Throw out all food and other supplies that you suspect may have become contaminated or come in to contact with floodwater. If your basement has flooded, pump it out gradually (about one third of the water per day) to avoid damage. The walls may collapse and the floor may buckle if the basement is pumped out while the surrounding ground is still waterlogged.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Concerns:

  • If the electric main to the structure is shut off you may not have a functional carbon monoxide detector. We recommend the purchase of a CO detector(s) with both electric and battery backup power. If there are existing CO detector(s) with battery backup, change the battery to insure full power
  • When utilizing gas driven electrical generators and water pumps, insure the exhaust is directed away from the home and the area is well ventilated to avoid the buildup of CO in the home.
  • Do not utilize the oven or range top to provide heat to the home if the furnace is shut down. This will cause a dangerous buildup of CO levels in the home.
  • Refrain from the use of heating appliances using methods such as, propane, kerosene and others fuels that can cause CO levels to increase.

Fire Safety Concerns:

  • If the main electric supply to the structure is shut off there may not be functional smoke detector(s) in the structure. If the smoke detectors are battery backup, change the battery to insure full power.

The Fire Department does have battery operated smoke detectors available to affected residents free of charge. Contract the Fire Prevention Bureau at (908) 756-4761 to schedule the pick up of smoke detectors if needed.

  • Do not utilize extension cords to provide power to multiple appliances where an electrical overload may occur.
  • Do not utilize multiple plug adaptors to supply appliances on a single line. This is one of the leading causes of residential fires.
  • We recommend the use of battery operated flashlights or battery operated lanterns for lighting. The use of candles, fuel powered lanterns and other alternative lighting methods is not recommended.
  • Refrain from the use of portable cooking devices within the structure. Most use a very flammable fuel and all liberate carbon monoxide.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT IF ANY CONDITIONS CHANGE, EVEN IF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN TO YOUR RESIDENCE PRIOR, EVACUATE THE STRUCRTURE AND CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.