Posted By: Sheri (NewHolidayNews@EnglishBd.) on 'English' Title: American Red Cross Y2K Checklist Date: Sat Apr 17 19:59:21 1999 Taken from the PC Magazine Volume 18 No. 7 April 6, 1999 issue (www.pcmag.com) 1. Check with manufacturers of your home electronics to determine what may be affected. Include any device with an embedded chip such as fire and security alarm systems, programmable thermostats, appliances,consumer electronics, garage door openers, electronic locks, and any other electronic equipment. 2. Stock up on disaster supplies lasting for several days to a week. Items to have on hand include nonperishable foods, stored water, and an ample supply of any perscription and non perscription medicines that you regularly use. 3. Have some extra cash on hand in the event that electronic transactions involving ATM cards and credit cards cannot be processed. To avoid long lines at the bank, withdraw cash in small amounts well in advance of December 31 and keep it in a safe place. 4. Fill your vehicle's gas tank a day or so before December 31. 5. In case the power fails, have an alternative cooking device on hand and make sure you know how to use it properly. Never use open flames or charcoal grills indoors. 6. Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves to keep warm. If you do purchase an alternative heating device, make sure it is approved for use indoors and is listed with the Underwriters Laboratories. 7. Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries on hand. Don't use candles for emergency lighting. 8. Examine your smoke alarms now. If you have smoke alarms that are hard-wired into your home's electrical system (most newer ones are), check to ee if they have battery backups. 9. Be prepared to relocate to a shelter for warmth and protection during a prolonged power outage. Have a a battery-operated radio or television on hand so you can get information on local emergency shelters. 10. If you plan to use a portable generator, connect what you want to power directly to the generator; do not connect the generator to your home's electrical system. Also, be sure to keep a generator in a well-ventilated area either outside or in a garage with the door open. 11. Check with local emergency services providers for additional information. For more details, see www.redcross.org/disaster/safety/y2k.html