Monthly Archives: September 2010

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

HURRICANE EARL MAY VISIT NORTHEAST U.S. COASTS

Folks on the northeastern coast of the United States have been advised to do an evacuation “test run,” in case Earl decides to come calling.  From the National Hurricane Center in Miami, as of today (9-2), a tropical storm warning has been issued to persons along Connecticut and Rhode Island coasts into Massachusetts.  Earl is heading toward the Outer Banks of North Carolina with tropical system winds of 140 mph, and higher gusts.  The center of Earl is approximately 300 miles south of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. 

Even though Earl may remain at sea, and run parallel to the coast, a storm surge from the hurricane could cause damage.  National Hurricane Director, Bill Read, said he expects big waves to hit the North Carolina coast, and by Friday, Cape Cod and Long Island could see big swells and dangerous rip currents.  Mr. Reed suggested that he would recommend advance planning by persons living in this area, just in case the storm hits the coast. 

Suggestions that we want to repeat in planning for a disaster are as follows:

  •     Plan ahead;
  •     Keep your cell phone charged;     
  •     Secure your home;
  •     Have a plan that includes your family, elderly, and pets;
  •      Be sure your insurance papers are in order;
  •      Have a 3-day supply of food and water for each individual;   
  •      Freeze gallon jugs of water ahead of time;
  •       Be sure you have a manual can opener;
  •      Purchase fresh fruit and vegetables in addition to canned goods;
  •       Have a supply of pet food and water bowls.
  •        Be sure you have all medicines;
  •        Notify next of kin or friends that you may be needing to stay with   them until the all-clear;

In the event of a hurricane hitting your town, do not go back until the authorities give permission.  Many times, downed power lines or other hazards cause injuries. 

With Labor Day approaching, we hope residents of these areas will have the “all-clear,” and be able to enjoy their holiday weekend.  However, listen to the professionals and take precautions, as they know what they are talking about.

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

LABOR DAY, 2010 SAFETY TIPS

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Monday, September 6th,   millions of American workers will celebrate Labor Day. Wrapping up summer fun, and beginning school, this will be the last holiday until Thanksgiving.  Labor Day became a federal holiday in the United States in 1894, and is always observed the first Monday in September. 

Labor Day is also known as the second deadliest holiday of the year, with Thanksgiving coming in at #1.  So, while you are busy making plans for that three-day weekend, please give some thought to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.  You know that your friendly State Troopers are going to be out in full-force, and their number one priority is seeing that you travel safely.  You may think that they are just out to get you, but as long as you drive at speeds designated by the law, and have your seat belt buckled, they won’t bother you.  One way to guarantee that is to head for your destination in plenty of time, allowing you to arrive on time.  Be sure to have your cell phone handy, but please don’t text and drive.  One of your passengers can answer your phone, or you can retrieve your messages once you have stopped driving. 

AAA expects 34.4 million Americans to travel this holiday weekend, from Thursday September 2nd, through Monday, September 6th.   Most will be going at least 50 miles from home, with the average miles travelled around 635.  If you are one of those travelers, be sure you watch for the other driver (drive defensively), motorcycles and bicycles.  Everyone should show the same respect on the roads that they expect to receive.  Driving and drinking just don’t mix, and those Driving Under the Influence (alcohol, drugs), will be arrested.  The same goes for BUI, pertaining to someone driving a boat under the influence; they will be subject to arrest, too. 

If you are going on an outing, such as fishing, camping, hiking, etc., be sure to take along your sunscreen, first aid kit, sunglasses, insect repellent, and protective gear.  Because the weather is still warm, you’ll want to keep all perishable food items cold, and not leave them out of the ice chest for more than one hour.  Taking along a NOAA weather radio would be a good plan, too, as this time of the year, there may be weather changes that would affect your outdoor activities.

 Wherever the roads take you, obey the law and stay safe.  Everyone traveling expects to return to work next Tuesday.  Do your part to see that they do.  

P.S.  Let’s hope that we have more American workers to honor next year; there are thousands who NEED jobs desperately.  Be thankful for the one you have.