Holiday Safety: Drive Sober and Give Safely

Holiday safety is the most burning issue from late November to mid-January, when families gather, parties are scheduled and possible extensive driving and possible flying out of town for a few days up to a few weeks. Take some basic precautions to ensure your family safe throughout the season.

(Holiday Safety)

Be Surely to Drive Soberly!

Many people choose to travel during the holidays by automobile, with the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation.

• When there are engagements that you would consume alcohol, make sure a designated driver is present to ensure guests make it home safely after holiday parties. Any adequate amount of alcohol, over-the-counter or illegal drugs all cause impairment that may spoil your after holiday plans. 
• Make sure every person in the vehicle is properly buckled up no matter how long or short the distance being traveled
• Please, and please put that cell phone away, especially while driving! All distracted driving causes 1/4 of all crashes
• Keep an emergency kit with you at all times (National Safety Council: Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season)

Give Gifts, But Give Safely

We've all heard it's important when choosing toys for infants or small children to avoid small parts that might prove to be a choking hazard. Here are some additional gift-related safety tips:

• Select gifts for older adults that are not heavy or awkward to handle
• Be aware of dangers associated with coin lithium batteries; particularly the ingestion of button batteries
• Check and see which toys are recalled with United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month)

How Will You and Your Family Keep Yourselves Safe During This Holiday Season?

Fall into Safety: Drive Safety and Do Take Your Flu Shots!

Autumn is fast approaching, particularly with Daylight Saving Time ends every year on the first Sunday in November. With the days getting shorter and the nights getting longer as we prepare for the festivities of upcoming holidays and holiday shopping, it normally means that it gets darker earlier.

As we set our clocks backward by one hour round the country, remember to change the batteries of the clocks. Remember that with it getting darker much earlier, driving safely needs extra bit of caution. (Fall into Safety)

Remember to Take Your Flu Shots!

As the flu season started in the fall, I hope that you have taken the flu vaccine to prevent yourself from getting the flu. If have not yet received yours, remember that it is recommended EVERYONE 6 months and older gets vaccinated against the flu. Center of Disease Control reminds everyone that flu season runs between October of each year until the following May, it is important to protect yourself and others by reducing the risk of getting the flu with a vaccine.

For those that have received the vaccine already, take heart that you may still get the flu with the vaccination. The ability of flu vaccine to protect a person depends on various factors, not limited your age, as well as health status. However, there is a good chance that if you get it, there is less of a chance for you to be as sick with the flu without the vaccine. (Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine)

Drive Safely as it Gets Darker Earlier

Fatigue, lack of light, compromised night vision, rush hour and impaired drivers could be all reasons that cause driving at night more dangerous than during any other time of day. Approximately 60% of adults have driven while they were tired, and another 100 million people, have fallen asleep at the wheel. Among these 100 million people, 13% say they fall asleep while driving at least once a month, and 4% have caused a crash by falling asleep while driving. (National Sleep Foundation)

Why do people fall asleep at the wheel? There may be many reasons, including lack of quality sleep, long work hours, sleep disorders, which do not require a lengthy trip to have the driver falling asleep. With daylight saving hours end, most days it gets dark by around 5:00pm, many will find themselves spending more time driving in the dark. Depth perception, color recognition, and the glare of headlights from another car coming can temporarily blind a driver. (The Most Dangerous Time to Drive)

To drive safety at night, keep in mind some of these tips:

• Stay in your lane and beware of drivers who dart from lane to lane
• Even though the route may be familiar, don't go on autopilot; stay alert
• In unfamiliar areas, consult a map before you go and memorize your route 
• Don't touch your phone, eat, drink or do other things that are distracting (Drowsy Driving Facts and Stats)

How Will You and Your Family Keep Yourselves Safe This Fall?

Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out During a Fire

I hope that as the daylight hours are getting slightly shorter and hopefully cooler weather, you and I are taking the time spending with our family and friends, in sports, arts and crafts as well as other activities. I also hope that you had taken the time to check and possibly change out the batteries of your fire alarms, they do need to be changed at least once per year. (NSC: National Fire Prevention Week)

National Fire Prevention Week is October 8th to 14th this year, with the theme "Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways to Get Out!"

Most of our homes should have at least one working smoke alarms, are a family's first indication of a fire when it sounds. Once that alarm sounds a fire can spread quickly, leaving only a minute or two to escape, according to the National Fire Protection Association. It is extremely important for all households to have an escape plan and practice using at least 2 different ways out of the house. As our September post reminds us, National Preparedness Month teaches us how important it is for every single one of us to plan ahead, because disaster doesn't.

We should all take action to prepare, because we are all able to help first responders in our community by training how to respond during an emergency and what to do when disaster strikes. It takes time and effort to help as many individuals, families, and communities around us engage in preparedness actions.

What You Can Do to Plan Ahead!

There are many ways for you and I to plan ahead before the fire starts, here are some of the tips to keep your home safe from fire:

1. Install both types of smoke alarms and change batteries at least once a year in these devices
2. Plan and practice escape routes and agree on a meeting place outside of your home; be prepared to assist young children, family members with special needs and pets
3. Know two ways out of every room in the home 
4. Learn how to use your fire extinguisher
5. If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop and roll. (National Preparedness Month: Ready.gov)

More Fire Prevention Education Resources

There are additional education resources available on fire prevention, check it out here:
Fire Prevention Week Education Resources

What are the Two Ways Out that You and Your Family Would Use?

National Preparedness Month

I could not believe that it is September already, school has already started for many school aged children and college and professional students. With many of us on the go, going to sport games, various running and walking events, Federal Management Agency (FEMA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) draws our attention to September as National Preparedness Month. Remember, “Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

We should all take action to prepare! We are all able to help first responders in our community by training how to respond during an emergency and what to do when disaster strikes, including where we live, work, and visit. It takes time and effort to help as many individuals, families, and communities around us engage in preparedness actions at home, work, business, school, and place of worship.

Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You CAN!

Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area, and create a family emergency plan as needed. Know what disasters could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Some of the disasters included but not limited to natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes and fires but also active shooter and chemical emergencies. Not sure how to get started? Start with making emergency plan and create a family communication plan with your children, parents and other members. (National Preparedness Month: Ready.gov)

Remember not to text and drive at the same time when you are trying to contact your family members!

Starting on September 1st, Texas becomes one of the states that adopted no texting and driving ban. Texting would be punishable by a fine of up to $99 for first-time offenders and $200 for repeat offenses. (Texting & Driving / Hands-Free Laws in Texas)

Practice and Building Out Your Plans

During the event of a disaster, can be usually stressful circumstances, and having access to personal financial, insurance, medical, and other records is crucial for starting the process of recovery quickly and efficiently. Taking the time before the disaster hits to collect and secure these critical records will give you peace of mind and, in the event of an emergency. Here are a few of the steps worthy of taking before disaster hits:

1. Gather financial, critical personal, household, and medical information.
2. Consider saving money in an emergency savings account that could be used in any crisis. Keep a small amount of cash at home in a safe place. It is important to have small bills on hand because ATM’s and credit cards may not work during a disaster when you need to purchase necessary supplies, fuel or food.
3. Obtain property (homeowners or renters), health, and life insurance if you don't have them. Homeowners insurance does not typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program)

There are many other resources on taking action to prepare and plan for disasters before they even begin. Department of Homeland Security has provided a great amount of wonderful resources to help get you and your family started.

• What important docs should you have in your emergency kit? (Financial Preparedness)
• Plan ahead: Flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before they go into effect. (FEMA)
• Get Oriented with First Aid, CPR and Other Topics Before Disasters (Safety Skills)

What Would You Do When Disaster Happens in Your Home and Community?

National Immunization Awareness Month

What does August remind you of? For me is back to school month, as we all wind down from the summer vacation, traveling with family and friends before heading back to school. Before getting ready for school, it is also important to be vaccinated before returning to school. National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. During this month, use this as an opportunity to get yourself and your family vaccinated before the fall.  

Make Sure Vaccine Records Up to Date

It is important to keep your vaccine records up to date, so that when you do need to request it, you would not need to spend more time getting your missed or updated vaccines. If you need proof of immunization, the best place to start is by contacting the clinic, doctor, or healthcare provider administered the vaccination. If your provider has the record on file, this will be the fastest way of obtaining your records. (Texas Department of State Health and Human Services)

If you need proof of immunization for your child, contact the last school that was attended. Schools are required to keep records for a minimum number of years. 

Adult Need Vaccines Too!

Vaccination is important for everyone because it protects the person receiving the vaccine and helps prevent the spread of disease, especially to those who are most vulnerable to serious complications (such as infants and young children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions and weakened immune systems). All adults, including pregnant women, should get the influenza (flu) vaccine each year to protect against seasonal flu. (National Immunization Awareness Month)

At times, there may be other vaccines that are needed for adults, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and HPV) depending on their age, occupation, travel, medical conditions, vaccinations they have already received, or other consideration. Not sure what vaccines you need? Check out this link with the quiz: CDC: What Vaccines Do You and Your Family Need?

There are many other resources on immunization, check out some of these resources to help get you and your family started.

• Recognizing National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) (CDC)
• National Immunization Awareness Month (National Public Health Information Coalition)
• National Immunization Awareness Month (Vaccines.gov)

How are You Encouraging Your Family and Friends Get Vaccinated?

Summer Safety: Water and Fire Safety

Summer is here! With many family members taking time off, visiting friends and family across the county and possibly abroad. Some would be attending various festivals and events many with fireworks especially this month, it is important to remember while we are having fun, safety is #1 key.

Water Safety

Importance of water safety can’t be overstated, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 2, but  anyone can be at risk. In 2013, 3,391 people over all age groups have drowned. (NSC Safety in and Out of the Water, 2017)

Water safety should be practiced with adults, knowing how to perform all following tips under our belts can save our as well as another’s life. According to an American Red Cross survey, only 56% of adults say they swim are able to perform five critical water-safety skills that could save their lives. Some of these include:

• Floating or treading water for one minute without a flotation device
• Stepping or jumping into water over your head and returning to the surface
• Exiting a pool without using a ladder 
• Swimming 25 yards without stopping (NSC Safety in and Out of the Water, 2017)

Fire Safety

The National Safety Council advises everyone to stay away from all consumer fireworks and to only enjoy fireworks at a public display conducted by seasoned professionals. In 2015, 11 people died and about 11,500 were injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. (Best to Leave Fireworks to the Experts)
There are some fireworks that are legal for consumers to purchase and use, but not necessarily legal. It is highly advised for everyone to only enjoy fireworks at a public display conducted by seasoned professionals. Check out this video by the NFPA.

Summer is a wonderful time to spend with family and friends outside, and outdoor activities are a great way to be active and stay in shape. Make sure you don't put an end to the fun because of a preventable injury.

Remember to report any issues of unsafe playgrounds to the owner or park district as necessary. Children under 6 yrs old should be supervised at all times by an adult. (Like to Play Outside? NSC Shares Some Tips for Staying Safe)

How are You Staying Safe This Summer?

Celebrating National Safety Month

June is National Safety Month, and National Safety Council  has provided some pointers to help raise awareness on what it takes to Keep Each Other Safe. Some of the focus this month includes reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road and in our homes and communities. 

The Need to Get Good Sleep 

Do you know that we need to be recharged to be in charge of our daily activities, such as in the workplace, at home or on the road? According CDC, 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep. It is also estimated that 37% of American workforce is sleep deprived. We need proper sleep to recharge ourselves, face the day and avoid injuries at home and at work. Some tips  to help you be alert: 

• Create and follow a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.  7-9 hours each day preferred  
• Make sure your bed and pillows are comfortable and support restful sleep 
• Avoid using electronic devices before bed which can inhibit sleep (Recharge to be in Charge)      

Work Ergonomically

According to American Chiropractic Association, approximately 80% of the population will experience a back problem at some point in their lives, and 31 million will experience lowback pain some time.  

To help prevent these issues before it starts, here are some general guidelines: 

v  Prevent lower back pain by staying healthy and active. Carrying extra weight and smoking can make you more susceptible to back injuries. 
v  Make sure chairs have proper lumbar and arm support, and can be adjusted for height
v  To take short breaks. Look away from your screen every 15 minutes, take micro breaks in between bursts of heavy typing and don’t forget to take a rest break every 30 or 60 minutes. (Work Ergonomically)

How Will You Increase Safety Awareness?

Summer Safety Tips

Summer is just around the corner, and with the heat rising and more activities we will be doing outside, such as running Summer Reading programs, tours and outreach with our staff and our customers, be sure to keep our safety thinking caps on and stay safe!

Rising Heat Indicators

Summer heat can be dangerous and even deadly! Hundreds of deaths occur each year in the US caused by heat exposure. In Houston, we have about 100 days every year with temperature reaches at least 90 degrees and with high humidity percentages. Let’s keep the following Summer Safety Tips in mind while at work and home.

General Guidelines

Whether you’re working or playing outside in the summer, anybody not accustomed to the heat is at risk for a heat-related illness. Take steps to protect yourself:

✓ Wear appropriate clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat

✓ Take frequent water breaks

✓ Apply sunscreen with SPF 15+

✓ NEVER leave kids or pets unattended in a vehicle (National Safety Council Outsmart Summer Danger)

Cars, Children and Pets

Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach up to 140 degrees F within minutes.

Properly supervise children during outdoor play and monitor them closely and frequently.

Check your pet(s) frequently for unusual behavior patterns that may be early warnings signs for heat exhaustion and possible heat stroke.

Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles while you run to do a quick errand.

Have a Safe Summer!