Saint Anne's Episcopal Church

Carbon Monoxide and Floods

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Created dateNov 18, 2008 Last editNov 18, 2008 at 11:00 AM
by Frank Jacob; Source: Church Insurance Company, seaweed_0@verizon.net
[News]

November 2008

Dear Church Leader,

This year has seen its share of natural disasters. Hurricanes Ike, Hanna, Gustav and Dolly brought devastation to thousands of people--including many churches and dioceses. That's why we've dedicated this issue to natural disaster preparedness.

If your church is struck by a hurricane or flood, cleanup is crucial. Read When Flood Waters Recede, Here's What to Do Next to get tips on important steps to take after a disaster.

Did you know that carbon monoxide poisoning is a major health threat during times of natural disaster? Don't let a bad situation become worse: Read this article to learn about carbon monoxide poisoning causes, and prevention tips.

Please forward this newsletter to anyone who might benefit from its content, and let me know if you have any questions or ideas about The Good Steward.

Happy reading!

Rod Webster
Senior Vice President and General Manager
Church Insurance Agency Corporation

What is the most difficult part of a flood cleanup?

	Finding a good water restoration professional
	Making thorough records of all damaged goods and property
	Reporting the flood & going through the claims process

Go here for the results from
last issue.

When Flood Waters Recede, Here's
What to Do Next

When Hurricane Ike hit Galveston, Texas, Trinity Episcopal Church, which is only eight blocks from Galveston Bay, got nearly four feet of water in its nave. Trinity was one of three Episcopal churches hardest hit by Hurricane Ike, says John Webster, assistant vice president of property claims. The other two churches suffering serious damage were St. Augustine Episcopal and Grace Episcopal Church of Galveston. Read this article for advice on what to do if your church ever experiences a similar disaster.

Steps to Recovery.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Protect
Your Family and Congregation in
Times of Disaster

It's called the "silent killer" and each year unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning does kill an estimated 500 people in the U.S. Carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless, colorless and tasteless, and at high levels it can cause illness or death within minutes. Areas struck by hurricanes or floods are at an exceptional risk for CO poisoning. Generators used during power outages can create hazardous fumes if used indoors or near an inhabited facility. Read this article to find out common causes and symptoms of CO poisoning, and prevention tips for your family and congregation.

Prevention Tips.

The coldest months of the year are a time to be especially vigilant about protecting your church property, whether your climate is snowy or mild!

Inside

Check for the buildup of ice or snow on the roof
Verify that natural drainage is taking place as temperatures rise and fall.
Visually inspect all walkways, entrances, exits and parking areas for ice or snow accumulations.
Make sure handrails are free from ice.
Minimize slips and falls during winter months by using sand for traction and salt or similar chemical substitutes for melting ice and snow.

Outside

Check all heating systems for proper functioning. You should do this annually as part of the normal maintenance routine.
Evaluate and take necessary steps to prevent frozen pipes and the plumbing damage they cause.
Produce, distribute and discuss the report on Risk Management initiatives you have accomplished, as well as those scheduled for a later date.

Read the full winter checklist!

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