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Federal Officials: Precautions Should Be Taken For Those Using Travel Trailers in New York

ALBANY, N.Y. -- With cold weather approaching, federal officials advise flood victims residing in travel trailers to take precautions with fire safety. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urges people in travel trailers to use only the built in propane heater to heat their travel trailer. Occupants should not use kerosene heaters; the kitchen stove or oven; or electric space heaters.  “Trailers are equipped with propane heaters which are safe, when used as instructed when we turn the trailer over to a new occupant,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Marianne C. Jackson. “Using unapproved devices for heat could lead to serious accident or injury. "Residents who are new to their trailer homes need to practice safety at all times," Jackson added.

The propane unit automatically vents to the outdoors, but using the oven or stove for heat would deplete the oxygen in the small, confined trailer space resulting in carbon monoxide poisoning, according to federal officials. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas that causes dizziness, headaches and death. Residents should make sure the carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that heater vents on the outside of the trailer are not blocked or covered. Safety experts offer several fire prevention tips for residents of travel trailers: If it doesn't seem safe, don't do it. Shut off all appliances before leaving home. Know where the propane shutoff valve is located and how to shut it off. Keep flammable materials away from the stove top. Make sure the smoke alarm is working and replace batteries twice a year. Know where the fire extinguisher is in the unit and learn how to use it. Learn how to use the emergency window opening devices in the trailer. Do not store gasoline or other flammable liquids in or under the trailer. Do not store gasoline-powered vehicles or equipment in the trailer. Never smoke in bed.

"It takes time to get familiar with new surroundings and we want everyone to be comfortable and safe this winter," said Jackson. "If anyone in a travel trailer or mobile home feels their health or safety is in danger, they should leave immediately and contact local emergency officials." To obtain maintenance or repairs, trailer residents should check the information kit that came with their trailer and call the phone number for their maintenance service.