Planning ahead is key component of any safety procedure. A well-thought-out plan can identify potential risks, establish clear procedures, ensure effective communication, facilitate training and drills, and enable continuous improvement. The following information is provided so you may develop your safety plans.
Be cautious using candles and always extinguish them before retiring for bed.
Be cautious using extension cords and do not overload them. Eliminate using them if possible.
Store flammable liquids safely in a non-combustible container.
Be extremely cautious if using electric portable heaters as they may tip over.
Do not store fireworks inside units.
Smoking inside a unit is an extreme fire danger.
Never leave cooking unattended.
Have pot cover close by to put out a cooking fire quickly
Wipe spills from the stove which could catch fire.
Always wear short or tight fitting sleeves when you cook.
Keep towels, potholders, and curtains away from open flames.
Don’t overfill pans with grease or cooking oil.
Never use the range or oven to heat your home.
Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave your house.
Never leave the kitchen to answer the door, grab the telephone, or change clothes while something is cooking without turning off the gas or electricity.
Be aware that it is dangerous to cook while on certain prescription medications or drinking alcohol.
The originally installed smoke detectors are wired with battery backups. Replacing the batteries the same time you change your clocks for daylight savings time is a recommended practice.
You should test your smoke detectors monthly to ensure they are in proper working condition.
You are encouraged to keep a fire extinguisher inside your home and ensure all in your home are familiar with how to use it.
Look for ABC fire extinguishers which will cover trash, wood, paper, electrical and liquid fires. The size is up to you and fire extinguishers can be purchased at Home Depot, Lowe’s and/or any hardware store.
Consider keeping a fire extinguisher in the following areas:
Kitchen—Since many fires start in the kitchen, keep one within 30 feet of the stove but not immediately next to it..
Near Sources of Heat—Place extinguishers near heating equipment but at a safe distance away.
Each Floor—Have at least one extinguisher on every floor.
Garage—it’s wise to keep an extinguisher in the garage due to the flammable materials often stored in this area.
Exit Points—Near doors so they’re easy to grab in an emergency
You should develop a plan should evacuation of your unit become necessary. You should consider the following in your plan:
Ensure that all potential exits are clear of obstructions and can be opened easily
Consider purchasing escape ladders for upper floors.
Choose a safe location outside, like a tree or mailbox, where everyone will meet after evacuating.
Regularly practice your escape plan with all members of the household to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Make arrangements for young children, elderly residents, or those with disabilities who may need assistance during an evacuation.
Prepare an emergency kit with essential items and keep it in an accessible location.
Have a way to receive emergency alerts and warnings.
Rescue— if possible, remove everyone from the immediate danger area.
Confine—If this can be done without endangerment, close all doors leading to the room where the fire is located.
Alert
Call 911 and report the fire from a safe area.
Notify others in your unit and adjacent units.
Notify WRMC
Fight— Only fight a fire if:
You know how to operate the fire extinguisher.
You have the appropriate type of extinguisher.
The fire is small.
You have access to an exit behind you in case you fail to put out the fire.
Water leaks can damage not only your unit but adjacent units and common areas.
It is important to shut off the source of the leak ASAP. Please be familiar with the location of the main water shutoff valve located in your garage.
In addition, each fixture (sinks, toilets, water heater, and some appliances) have their own shutoff valves. You should familiarize yourself with these and know how to operate them.
If the water leak has caused extensive damage or extends past your unit boundaries, you should contact the WRMC via the portal (general request--> homeowner general question) to report the water leak. They will route the request to Smokey who will assist with important next steps and determine whether to file a claim with the Association’s Insurance policy.
According to the Rules and Regulations of the Vine Condominiums you are responsible for water damage to common elements or other units which emanates from your unit, including leaks or overflows of sinks, tubs, showers, shower pans, toilets, dishwashers, and clothes washers
Leave the area immediately,
Call 911 from a safe distance,
Call Atmos Energy Emergency 866.322.8667.
You should identify an area in your unit in the event of a Tornado or other severe weather. Remember interior, enclosed and windowless areas are the best locations for protection from a storm. Sign up for emergency alerts at DallasAlert.com.
If you are experiencing an after–hours maintenance emergency, please call 855-435-4596. Once the greeting comes on press 1 to be connected to WRMC answering service. You may hear a dial tone during this transfer, please do not hang up. You will be connected to WRMC dispatch service who will take your report and contact the on-call WRMC representative to assist you.