The National Safety Campaign

                           

             Automotive & Home Inspection and Safety Guide

The following automotive and home checklist information was compiled by
the National Safety Campaign, in cooperation with the expert home and
automotive repair facilities, 1-800-REPAIRS, the Consumer Information
Center, the United States Department of Transportation, National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC) and the National Institute for Automotive Service
Excellence (ASE).

This checklist will assist you in locating potentially dangerous areas
on your automobile and around your home. The correct answer is in bold
print. If your answer does not match the correct answer, it may indicate a
need for immediate service or attention from a qualified and appropriate
repair service provider in your area.

IMPORTANT: Before allowing a company to perform any work on your
automotive or home, as for the following from the company:

1. A written proposal or description of work to be performed, with the
   total proposed costs.
2. A written guarantee for any work performed.
3. Proof of the company’s general liability insurance.
4. Proof of a current occupational or trade license (as required in your
   area).
5. Assurance that all home modifications meet local building and fire
   codes.


AUTOMATIVE INSPECTION GUIDE

BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES

1. Are you a member of a "Motor Club" or have an emergency road side provider?
   "A motor club plan may be useful in locating a 'qualified' emergency
   road service provider quickly in case of a breakdown." *YES     No

2. Have you experienced a "breakdown" within the past 12 months? "Recent
   breakdowns may indicate a need for necessary mechanical services."
   Yes     *NO

3. Do you have the following in your vehicle:
   A. First aid kit                   *YES    No
   B. Took kit                        *YES    No
   C. Spare Tire                      *YES    No
   D. Flash Light                     *YES    No
   E. Blanket and dry towel           *YES    No
   F. Jumper Cables                   *YES    No
   G. Spare gallon of water           *YES    No
   H. Umbrella and rain suit          *YES    No
   I. Fire extinguisher               *YES    No
   J. Flares and a Plastic            *YES    No
      triangular-shaped
      emergency reflector

"These items should always be kept in hour vehicle. In case of a
breakdown always position your vehicle as far as possible from he flow
of traffic. Periodically check your spare tire air pressure and keep
fresh batteries in the flashlight."

Tires

1. Do you detect any cuts, holes or defects in the sides or any part of
   the rubber?              Yes     *NO

2. Is there any "cracking" or splits on the sides of between the treads
   or at the valve stem?    Yes     *NO

3. Is there any sign of uneven wear or "balding" on the treads?   Yes *NO

4. Is there correct air pressure in all tires?
"The correct pressure is usually indicated on the placard inside the
glove compartment or actually by the vehicle manufacturer
specifications. Low air pressure can also decrease gas mileage."
        *YES       No

"Your tires should be checked regularly. Tires in poor condition can
cause "blow outs" and possible dangerous crashes."

5. Do you have a special key to unlock the hubcaps?
"Many never model automobiles have hubcaps that require special tool to
remove the hubcap. If your vehicle has this, tool with your tire
changing equipment at all times."     *YES        No

6. Are the hubcaps on securely?       *YES        No

7.Do you detect any shaking or "wobbling" while driving?   Yes   *NO

8. While driving, does your steering pull in any direction?
"The above two items may be a result of improper alignment or poor tire
balance."         Yes        *NO

BRAKES

1. Does your automobile have an anti-lock brake system and do you
understand how it operates?
"Most never car models offer ABS as either standard or optional
equipment. Read your owners manual to find out whether your car has an
anti-lock brake system." (NHTSA) "With anti-lock brakes, your brake
pedal may pulsate when you attempt a sudden, abrupt stop. This condition
is normal." (ASE) "If you normally pump the brakes, you shouldn't do so
with ABS. Just hold foot firmly on the brake pedal and ignore the
unusual sounds coming from the brake system or pedal pulsing you may
experience. And remember you can still steer!" (NHTSA)    *YES      No

2. Do you detect any "squeaking, squealing or grinding" sounds with
regular brakes?"Squeaking" usually indicates a need for brake service.
Grinding sounds may be caused by completely worn brake pads and should
be inspected.       Yes      *NO

3. Does your brake pedal feel "spongy" or loose when applying?
        Yes     *NO

4. Do your brake lights work property?     *YES    No

5. Is your brake fluid to the full mark on the container?
"Low brake fluid may cause your brakes to operate improperly. Check
brake fluid and lights monthly."       *YES       No

OIL, FLUIDS & FILTERS

1. Do you detect any burning smells or smoke (from around the engine)?
"Smoke or burning smells may be caused by oil leaks near hot surfaces.
If this is occurring, the vehicle should be checked or serviced
immediately.                          Yes      *NO

2. Have you checked your motor oil recently?"   *YES    No

3. Have you checked your automatic transmission level recently?
        *YES      No

4. Have you checked your radiator coolant (anti-freeze) recently?
        *YES      No

5. Do you have a separate radiator cooling tank (usually plastic) and if
so, are fluids at the appropriate level?
"Anti-freeze coolant is recommended because it helps prevent freezing
and overheating."        *YES       No

6. Is your wiper washer container full of windshield washer solvent?
        *YES       No

7. Do you detect any oil, fluid or water leaks on the ground, after
vehicle is parked?         *YES         No

8. Have you had an oil, oil filter and air filter change recently?
"Regular oil filter changes are important and may help your vehicle
avoid mechanical failures. Follow manufacturers recommended service
intervals." *YES       No

MECHANICAL AND GENERAL MAINTENANCE

1. Have you checked the automatic transmission fluid?     *YES    No

2. If you have an automatic transmission, does it shift smoothly?
        *YES      No

3. Do you detect excessive engine surges between gear shifting?
        Yes       *NO

4. Does the engine idle smoothly, while in "park"?    *YES    No

5. Does the engine "ping" or run on after the engine is turned off?
        Yes       *NO

6. Has you automobile had a tune-up recently?
"Improper tuning or low grade gasoline may cause poor engine performance."
        *YES      No

7. Do you detect any cracks or defects in any of the belts (fan belts,
   etc.)?
   "Good condition fan and other engine belts are important for engine
   cooling, battery charging and other critical operational parts."
         Yes      *NO

8. Does the air conditioning and heating system work properly?
        *YES      No

9. Do you have spare electrical fuse?
"Always keep a complete supply of the proper size fuses in your vehicle."
        *YES      No

10 Do your emergency flashers work properly?
        *YES      No

"Properly working emergency flashers may help to prevent crashes in case
of a breakdown."

11. Do your turn signal lights (blinkers) work properly?
        *YES      No

12. Do your headlights work properly? (High beam and Low beam)
        *YES      No

13. Do your wiper blades clean all sections of windshield properly?
        *YES      No

14. Does your radio work properly?"In case of severe weather or traffic
hazards, radio announcements can be of assistance."   *YES      No

BODY AND GLASS

1. Do you have any cracks in the windshield or any other glass?
        Yes      *NO

2. Do all windows, doors, hood and trunk operate and lock properly?
        *YES      No

3. Are there any holes or corroded or rusty areas in the body of vehicle?
"Check for holes underneath wherever exhaust gases can enter the
passenger compartment. Corroded and rusty areas can also cause water
leaks and wear on important moving parts."       Yes     *NO

4. Are there any loose items on the body?        Yes     *NO

"An average of 115 persons died each day in motor vehicle crashes in
1996, one every 13 minutes, and an injury every 9 seconds and one crash
every 5 seconds. (NHTSA)"

HOME INSPECTION GUIDE
VENTILATION, AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

1. Does your equipment make any loud or grinding sound while operating?
        Yes       *NO

2. Does your equipment cool adequately?
        *YES       No

3. Does your equipment heat adequately?
        *YES       No

4. Have you ever detected natural gas odors from your heating equipment?
"Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and may lead to an explosion or fire.
If you detect gas smells, contact a plumber or your gas company
immediately."        Yes      *NO

5. Are there any rusted or corroded areas on any pipes leading to or
from your heating equipment? (If yes, are there any corrosion/rust areas
by the fittings?)    Yes      *NO

6. Do you detect any strange odor or burning smell from your system
while it is operating?"Burning smells may be caused by electrical
malfunctions."       Yes      *NO

7. Do you have a carbon monoxide detector?
        *YES        No

8. Have you had your air conditioning/heating equipment serviced recently?
        *YES        No

9. Have you replaced your air conditioning filter recently?
"A clean filter is important for making your equipment operate properly
 and safely."       *YES         No

10. Does your thermostat work properly?
        *YES        No

11. Do you see any exposed electrical wires leading to exterior equipment?
        Yes        *NO

12. Have you ever noticed water spots on any ceiling or wall?
        Yes        *NO

13. Have you ever noticed algae (green slime) coming from an exterior drain?
        Yes        *NO

14. Is there any trash, debris or plants growing around your exterior
air conditioning equipment (compressor)?       Yes           *NO

15. Are space heaters in good working condition and placed away from
combustible materials such as curtains and furniture?
        *YES       No

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

"There are over 200 electrocution deaths each year in the U.S. caused by
touching defective electrical products or live wires." (U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission)

1. Do you have extension cords operating any appliances inside your home?
        Yes       *NO

2. Do you have a working smoke detector or detectors?
"Smoke detectors should be placed on each floor and outside each
sleeping area."      *YES       No

3. Have you checked the power supply or batteries in your smoke detector?
"There are about 450,000 residential structure fires and about 3,500
residential structural fire deaths annually. About 30 percent of the
deaths are to children under the age of 15." (U.S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission)." *YES       No

4. If your bathroom has an electrical receptacle near the sink (within 3
feet), is it a "ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)" outlet? "Ground
fault outlets usually have a small reset button on the face of the
outlet."       *YES       No

5. Do you have exterior flood lights?
"Properly working exterior lighting will add to your home security."
        *YES       No

6. Do you have exterior electrical receptacle outlets with waterproof covers?
"About 5,100 injuries from electrical outlets and receptacles are
treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms annually; nearly half are to
children under age 5." (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)
        *YES        No

7. Are your electrical panel 's fuses/breakers clearly marked as to the
correct room or service area of service?   *YES       No

8. Is there a ground wire connected to the panel? (copper wire clamped
to water pipe or copper ground rod)    *YES      No

9. Are there any exposed wires coming out of the fuse box or any exposed
electrical wires on the exterior of house?
"All wires should be in a pipe or concealed under the house, in walls or
attic."  Yes          *NO

10. Do you frequently need to replace/reset fuses/breakers?
         Yes       *NO

11. Do your lights dim while operating appliances, etc.?
"If lights dim or flicker, it probably indicates an "overload" on a
circuit. Consult an electrician."       Yes     *NO

12. Are all light fixtures working properly and fastened securely to the
wall or ceiling?        *YES        No

13. Are all interior electrical receptacles working and do they have
"child proof" plugs?    *YES        No

14. Have you detected any burning smells around any fixtures?
"Check all light bulbs for the correct wattage for each fixture.
Oversized bulbs can lead to fires."     Yes      *NO

15. Do you have branch circuit wiring made from aluminum that was
manufactured before 1972?"A qualified electrician should check the
system for possible problems at connections, such as at outlets or
switches or at major appliances."       Yes      *NO

PLUMBING SAFETY

1. If your water heater is inside your house, are there any flammable
fluids or combustible materials near it? "Vapors from flammable fluids
and combustible materials around your water heater may cause a fire."
            Yes      *NO

2. Is the water heater on a raised platform?
           *YES       No

3. Do you detect any strange or burning smell around the water heater?
           Yes       *NO

4. Is the water heater vent pipe corroded or damaged?
           Yes       *NO

5. Do you have any leaking or dripping faucets? "Water leaks may lead to
fire or electrical shock hazards."   Yes       *NO

6. If you have a garbage disposal, does it work properly?
          *YES        No

7. Do you have any leaking or dripping faucets?
          Yes        *NO

8. Does your washing machine work properly?
          *YES        No

9. Are the hot and cold water hoses corroded?
          Yes        *NO

10. Do your toilets continue to run after flushing?
          Yes        *NO

11. Do you detect any gas smells in or around your house?
"Gas leaks can lead to explosions. Contact a plumber or your gas company
immediately if you detect any gas leak."     Yes      *NO

EXTERIOR SAFETY

1. Are your exterior doors solid and have deadbolt locks?
          *YES        No

2. Do all windows have locks and work properly and smoothly?
"Screens will not stop a child from falling out an open window. Install
locks that prevent windows from opening more than 4 inches. If fire
codes permit window guards, install these in the lower half of the
window to keep children from falling out." *YES        No

3. Is there any visible rotten wood on the exterior?
           Yes        *NO

4. Are there gutters leaking, rusting or coming loose?
           Yes        *NO

5. Does the exterior have excessive mildew or dirt?
           Yes        *NO

6. Is your roof leaking in any part of your house?
           Yes        *NO

7. Is your driveway or sidewalk cracked or damaged?
           Yes        *NO

8. If you have a garage door, does it work properly and smoothly?
          *YES         No

9. Do you have an automatic garage door opener that does not
automatically reverse?"Repair or replace with new garage door opener to
prevent children from being trapped and killed under the door. Keep
remote control openers out of the reach of children."     Yes      *NO

10. Is there any broken window or door glass?             Yes      *NO

11. If you have a pool or spa, is there a barrier completely surrounding
it? "Each year about 300 children under the age of 5 drown in home
swimming pools. Always supervise children around water." (U.S. Consumer
Product Safety Commission) *YES        No

12. If you store any pool maintenance chemicals are they in a secure
location, locked and out of the reach of children?
          *YES        No

INTERIOR SAFETY

1. Do all kitchen appliances work properly?              *YES       No

2. Do you detect any strange smells from around the stove (gas leak)?
"Each year, over 200 deaths and 4,200 injuries occur in stove or oven
residential fires." (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)
           Yes       *NO

3. Are your kitchen appliances covered under any type of warranty?
           *YES       No

4. Does your stove/oven have a timer?
           *YES       No

5. Do you have afire extinguisher in the kitchen?
           *YES       No

6. Do you detect any water leaks from around the sinks, dishwasher or
toilets?    Yes       *NO

7. Have you detected any signs of insects, rodents or pests?
            Yes       *NO

8. Has your house had an inspection for termites?
"Insects may present a health hazard. Contact a professional pest control
company."     *YES     No

9. If you have any pesticides stored in your home are they in a secure
location?     *YES    No

10. Do you have kitchen cabinet door locks?    *YES     No

11. Do you have the correct telephone number for your poison control
department?    *YES    No

12. Are there any torn or damaged areas in your flooring?
                Yes    *NO

13. Are you storing any flammable fluids in your garage
or home?
"Combustible materials may be dangerous and should never be store inside."
                Yes     *NO

14. Do you have a First Aid Kit in your house?
                *YES     No

Consumer Information Catalog Pueblo, Colorado 81009
Also offers a catalog of free and low-cost federal publications of
consumer interest, such as: Cars, Children, Employment, Environment,
Federal Publications, Food & Nutrition, Health, Housing, Money, Small
Business, Travel & Hobbies. For more information contact our web
site:http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov  Consumer Information Catalog Pueblo,
Colorado 81009 or call 1-888-8 PUEBLO (toll free)

ASE, a non-profit organization was founded in 1972 to help improve the
quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing
and certification of automotive technicians. More than 424,000
ASE-certified automobile, truck and collision repair technicians, engine
machinists and parts specialists work in dealerships, independent shops,
sevice stations, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges. For
more information about ASE and ASE-certified technicians, write ASE,
13505 Dulles Technology Drive, Suite 2, Herndon, VA 20171-3421, call us
@1-703-713-3800 or visit our web site @ http://www.asecert.org

Important: To decrease fatalities and lessen injuries, remember to
always buckle up and Don't Drink & Drive. Always use seat belts and
remember the safest place for children age 12 and under is in the rear
seat.

The United States Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) has additional automotive safety
information. You can contact their web site at: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov
To report a safety related vehicle problem or to request information
contact the NHTSA toll-free Auto Safety Hotline, 1-888-DASH-2-DOT
(1-888-327-4236)

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission protects the public from
injuries and deaths from over 15,000 different kinds of consumer
products.To report unsafe products, or for product safety information,
call the CPSC toll-free hotline. 1-800-638-2772 or visit our web site
at: http://www.cpsc.gov

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Consumer
Product Safety Commission do not endorse or imply endorsement of any
product, service, individual or company mentioned and/or involved in this
publication.

Additional safety guides and other consumer information is available from:
The 1-800-REPAIRS/National Safety Campaign at: 1-800-REPAIRS
(1-800-737-2477) The Consumer Information Center/Pueblo Colorado 81009
at: 1-888-8-PUEBLO The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) at:1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236) The U.S. Consumer Product
safety Commission (CPSC) at:1-800-638-2772The National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) at:1-703-713-3800

The National Safety Campaign is a not-for profit organization and is
funded by 1-800-REPAIRS a national group of qualified and independently
owned repair facilities.1-800-REPAIRS is a toll-free number for
information, advice, and for free referral for any type of home or
automotive repairs