Supplies such as propane tanks in short supply ahead of second storm
Durham fire officials are encouraging people to stock up on supplies, like kerosene or propane, to stay warm, just in case they lose power. These items are, however, rare.
A Sheetz on Hopson Road just received a delivery of propane tanks Thursday afternoon after waiting for days.
A cashier at another convenience store on Route 54 said he had run out of propane tanks before the latest storm and the supply had not been replenished.
Durham Deputy Fire Chief Christopher Iannuzzi is urging people not to use an outdoor grill indoors, either for heating or cooking.
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Iannuzzi said people have done this in the past and it is extremely dangerous.
It also says that only kerosene should be used for kerosene heaters.
“If you use gasoline in a kerosene heater, when you go to light it, you’re going to burn yourself because it’s going to explode,” Iannuzzi said. “It’s going to flash, and it’s also going to set your house on fire.”
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The department is also taking steps to ensure the safety of firefighters when responding to calls this weekend.
Chain cables were wrapped around the fire truck tires. The tool was used during last weekend’s storm.
“It helps them dig in, get a little traction, maybe get down on the pavement, but it at least gives them a little more bite than just the slickness of these tires, and that helps us get there and stay on the road and be able to continue operating,” Iannuzzi said.
