Monthly Archives: August 2012

General Safety Issues

TEN TELLING PSYCHOLOGY STUDIES ON THE NATURE OF BULLYING (Guest Post)

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To say that bullying has been at the forefront of public discourse over the past few years would be a bit of an understatement. Countless TV programs, documentaries, articles, and even high-profile trials have covered and re-covered every angle of the issue time and time again. The growing interest in bullying over the past decade hasn’t been without just cause, as a saddening number of school shootings, student suicides, and other tragic incidents have demonstrated the heartbreaking consequences of unchecked bullying. As a result, schools have been taking a hard line on students accused of bullying, parents are speaking out, and the issue has become the rallying point for a number new anti-bullying organizations.

Yet while bullying is doubtless a major problem and one that should be addressed with the utmost seriousness, the reality is that many who are speaking out against it and proposing legislation on it really know little about the psychological and sociological research that has been done on the subject. While some stereotypes about bullies and their victims have proven true, other studies demonstrate that a more measured approach to bullying may be more effective than current punishment-focused programs as student motivations and definitions of bullying don’t always fit neatly into adult ideas about the topic. Bullying is a highly emotional issue and always will be, but these studies only serve to further demonstrate the importance of taking the time to apply reason and solid research data to any decisions that may have long-term effects on America’s children rather than letting emotions, however valid, be the guide.

1.      Children who bully also have problems with other relationships.

Bullying may be a sign that a child is having difficulty with other areas of life as well, not just relating to their peers. A study released in 2008 found that students who bully tend to have difficulties in relationships with teachers and parents as well. These difficulties were found to stem from generally aggressive behavior and a less well-defined moral compass. Students who bully, researchers found, may be lacking in social and problem-solving skills, which makes it difficult for them to form long-lasting, non-combative relationships with those around them. The findings led researchers to conclude that a real long-term solution to bullying may lie in helping children develop these skills, involving parents and their peers, and promoting healthy relationships early in life before more serious and potentially more dangerous social and emotional issues emerge later on.

2.      Bullying behaviors are learned and practiced at home.

While some students may simply have a more aggressive personality, studies are showing that many of the behaviors related to bullying are learned at home from interactions with parents. A review of international research in 2008 found that children raised by authoritarian parents — those who are demanding, directive, and unresponsive — are the most prone to bullying behavior, often modeling their behaviors at school on abusive, hostile, and aggressive experiences at home. On the flip side, children who were raised by nurturing, responsive parents were found to be less likely to bully. Another study in 2009 also connected bullying to home life, but in a different way. This study found that students who bullied their siblings at home were much more likely to bully other kids at school. If bullying is allowed at home, students simply continued the behavior in outside social relationships. These two studies have helped researchers to determine that the most pivotal figure in reducing and preventing bullying is a parent, and parents who are less angry and more talkative with their children report much fewer instances of bullying.

3.      Social desires drive both bullying and other children’s reactions to it.

Those who want to reduce bullying often ignore a key factor: what makes kids want to bully others in the first place. Luckily, research hasn’t ignored this aspect of the behavior. A Dutch study found that bullies are most often driven by the desire to attain status and win the affections of their peers, desires nearly all students share. Yet what differentiates bullies from their peers is the use of dominance to attain these ends. Researchers found that bullying was a risky behavior, with a high chance of ending up on the outs with other classmates, which is why bullies so frequently focus their torments on children who are viewed as being weak or who are not well-liked by other classmates. Yet bullies are only half of the equation. Social desires also drive how victims respond to bullying. A 2011 study found that students who are motivated to form strong relationships with their peers were more likely to use proactive strategies to reduce harassment from a classmate. Those who wanted to be perceived as “cool” were more likely to lash out at bullies and those who wanted to avoid negative judgments of their peers were most likely to do nothing at all. Researchers say that these insights to bullying should help shape future interventions in schools, promoting conflict resolution and showing students the way to build healthy relationships with their peers.

4.      Some bullying stems from a desire to maintain control.

While having social “norms” may be part of human nature, it also may help motivate many students to engage in bullying behavior. A study from Concordia University found that students who are loners or who are antisocial are more frequently bullied at school. Researchers believe this is a way to help control renegades, establish social order, and to keep a group’s members under control. It all may sound a bit Draconian for grade school, but researchers found that it was quite common for children to use aggressive behavior to gain social status and dominance over their peers, within the group and outside the group, deciding who and what was acceptable. William Bukowski, who led the study, says this information can help prevent victimization in the classroom. He recommends creating classroom environments that are egalitarian and encouraging more introverted students to speak up and assert themselves.

5.      Poor problem-solving skills increase children’s risk of becoming both a bully and a victim.

Anti-bullying activists should take note: researchers have found that poor problem solving skills are a key factor (if not the key factor) in much of the bullying that goes on in today’s schools. Research published by the American Psychological Association showed that children and adolescents who lack social problem-solving skills are at a higher risk of becoming bullies, victims, or both. For bullies, poor social skills often stem from conflict and poor parenting at home, negative attitudes about school, and poor self-image. For victims, risk factors and results were often very similar, a result that might be surprising to many. The authors of the study point out that successful anti-bullying strategies should be focused on more than just punishment, instead targeting risk factors and environments that may lead to bullying in the first place, both at home and at school.

6.      Students and parents may define bullying differently.

Students and their parents may have divergent views on what bullying is and what causes it, according to some recent studies. A 2009 study at Indiana University found that researchers and students differed in a key way in how they defined bullies. Students tended to be more forgiving in their labels, believing that there was no strict dichotomy between bullies and non-bullies. This was especially true when evaluating themselves, as students who admitted to engaging in bullying behavior didn’t seem themselves as bullies because of other, more positive aspects of their social lives. This, researchers caution, is why many anti-bullying messages don’t get through to students, as those who don’t see themselves or their peers as bullies often disregard anti-bullying messages. A study in Sweden is even more enlightening, showing that teens believed that individual traits like self-esteem and insecurity, not outside society at large, are to blame for bullying; a view that contrasts with many adult perspectives on the topic. What’s more, the study revealed that 42% of students blamed the victim for the bullying, citing his or her difference from the norm as justification for the bully’s actions. These studies illuminate the importance of talking to students themselves when developing strategies for dealing with bullying, as adults and kids may approach the issue from a different perspective.

7.      Even popular, well-liked students get bullied.

While bullying is more common among students who are on the fringes of social groups, popular students aren’t exempt from being picked on by bullies. A study in 2008 found that in cross-gender bullying, it was common for unpopular boys to harass and bully popular girls, especially as students move through elementary and middle school. Between fourth and sixth grade, researchers found that it wasn’t just the popular students that were doing the bullying; quite the opposite, in fact, when the bullying occurred across the genders. The research is telling, and those who conducted the study say it should be a wake-up call to teachers and administrators who often overlook claims of harassment by students who seem to be popular and well-adjusted.

8.      Cyberbullying operates differently than traditional bullying.

It’s tempting to lump all bullying together, but researchers say that online bullying should truly be a separate category of bullying and dealt with differently than traditional bullying. University of British Columbia researchers compared the two and found that the dynamics of online bullying are unique, with students not seeing their actions online in the same light as their actions in real life. This shouldn’t necessarily be surprising as numerous incidents have shown that young people often don’t understand the real-life consequences that can accompany the things they say, do, and share online. Traditional power differentials, like size and popularity, don’t apply online, leaving all students as fair game to be bullied or to become bullies. As a result of this study, researchers believe that anti-bullying programs need to take a two-pronged approach to bullying that addresses cyberbullying as a separate and unique challenge.

9.      Children begin bullying and being bullied as soon as they are old enough to engage in social interactions.

Parents, teachers, and activists need to take note: it’s never too early for bullying to occur. Researchers found that as soon as children are able to interact socially, many become entrenched in patterns of victimization or bullying. Victims are more likely to be those who were aggressive in infancy, subjected to harsh parenting styles, or from low-income homes. As children age, those who experienced bullying in their formative years are more likely to continue to be the victim, raising levels of depression, low self-esteem, social withdrawal, suicidal intention, and loneliness. Another study found that distinctions between bullies and victims become apparent as early as preschool, with aggressive children having a harder time building relationships with peers. These early problems could have long-term ramifications, which is why researchers stress it’s important to tackle them early on.

10.  Most anti-bullying programs aren’t effective.

Sadly, while bullying remains a major problem in schools around the nation, most programs created to combat it are woefully ineffective, or so says much of the research on the subject. A study in 2004 found that 86% of victims of bullying reported negligible or negative results from reporting bullying. Other studies suggest even higher numbers. So what’s wrong with the current programs? Most focus on punishment and isolation, which have proven to be very ineffective ways to get students to modify their behavior. Far better results have been seen with programs that focus on teaching kids mediation, building social skills, and helping students learn to solve problems. Also, while students may learn positive behaviors at school, negative behaviors may be reinforced at home, making it hard to facilitate any real change in students. Of course, the real problem may be that it simply isn’t possible to get everyone to like each other all the time or even to treat each other with respect; a human problem that isn’t going to go away anytime soon.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Health Issues, Protective Clothing

NOW’S THE TIME TO GET OUT THE BUG REPELLENT!

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Every summer time, we are “bugged” by those pesky critters……flies, gnats, mosquitoes, bees, yellow jackets, wasps – you name it, we have it!  At this time, however, the biggest culprits are mosquitoes, those that are carrying a disease called West Nile Virus.  West Nile Virus causes an infection that is spread by certain kinds of mosquitoes.  They become infected when they bite infected birds.  Then, they spread the virus when they bite people or animals, such as horses.  This virus cannot spread from animals to people or from person to person  through casual contact. 

West Nile Virus causes an infection that can lead to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), the spinal cord (myelitis), or the tissues surrounding it and the spinal cord (meningitis).  There is no specific treatment available.  Mild infections go away on their own, with the use of mild pain  relievers.  Persons who are more susceptible to the virus are those over age 50 and those who have cancer, diabetes and kidney disease, or those with underlying health problems, as well as those who have received organ transplants.  

Dallas County, Texas’ second most-populated county, authorized aerial spraying of insecticide on Friday for the first time in almost five decades to help fight the mosquito-born illness.  Thus far, 12 North Texas residents have died.  This year, the Texas Department of State Health Services has tracked 214 cases of the neuro-invasive West Nile, the most serious form of the illness.  Because it is just now becoming the peak season for the illness, agency officials fear the state will break the record number for such cases, which was 438, reported in 2003.  Texas isn’t the only state reporting this virus, so persons everywhere should take precautions. 

People should do everything they can to avoid mosquitoes.  Some ways to control them around your home are:

            Remove their habitat (where they live and breed.  Eliminate standing water in rain gutters, tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys or any other container where they can breed.  Also, empty and change water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.  Keep swimming pool water clean and circulated.  Drain or fill temporary pools of water with dirt.

            To prevent your exposure to mosquitoes: use EPA-regulated mosquito repellents when necessary and follow directions and precautions closely.  Head nets, long sleeves and long pants should be worn if you are going into areas with high mosquito populations.  Stay inside during the evening when mosquitoes are active.  Be sure your window and door screens are “bug tight.”  Replace outdoor lights with yellow “bug” lights, which tend to attract fewer bugs than ordinary lights.  Remember the yellow lights are not repellents. 

There is no vaccine for the virus, which can cause high fevers, headaches and disorientation.  As stated earlier, however, most go away on their own.

This situation has become more serious because of the warm winter that insects lived through, and the extreme dry conditions that certain areas have experienced. 

The best solution is to stay inside, especially at night.   For those who must work outdoors, there are many types of mosquito repellents.  DEET has been proven to be a most effective repellent for mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, deer flies, stable flies, black flies, gnats and fleas.  There is even a type of netting  for those who must wear hardhats or ball caps!

 

Source: CNN,
ABC News, A.P., CDC, Texas Department of State Health Services

General Safety Issues

SHOULD I LET MY NANNY/BABYSITTER DRIVE MY CHILDREN AROUND? (GUEST POST)

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(http://www.nannybackgroundcheck.com/blog/should-i-let-my-nanny-drive-my-kids-around/) Sent to us by Lindsay Samuels.

When it comes to having someone else transport their children from place to place in a vehicle, many parents have justifiable apprehensions. But as is the case with many personal decisions, when it comes to allowing your nanny to transport your children, there isn’t one answer that’s right for everyone.

As with most every choice, there will be pros and cons to your decision. When you allow your nanny to transport your children around it opens up the door to a new level of customized, personalized, and individualized childcare. Nannies who are allowed to transport their charges can embark on a variety of age-appropriate outings that they may not otherwise be able to venture on. These include trips to the library, local museums, zoo, parks, and friend’s homes for play dates. When parents allow their nanny to transport their children, it also opens the possibility for their children to partake in other rich social experiences, such as attending ‘mommy and me’ type classes or playgroups. Nannies who can transport the children can also take their charges to doctor and dentist appointments, preschool classes, or to any other necessary appointments that otherwise would pose a scheduling conflict for the child’s parents.

However, granting transportation rights also may have some downsides. For parents who worry about their children’s safety, their worry may outweigh any potential benefits of their children leaving their home in a vehicle driven by their nanny. Parents may worry that their nanny will abuse the transportation privilege and embark on errand running or other unapproved outings. For some parents, worry about giving over control of where their child goes and when to their nanny is a real concern.

Before making your decision on if you’ll allow your nanny to transport the children, consider these 5 factors:

Driving record and experience. Part of your nanny’s pre-employment screening should have included a driving record check. If you didn’t do one prior to hiring, now is the time to conduct one. Reviewing a copy of your nanny’s driving record will provide information on driving patterns, citations, and violations. But, as you know, the record will only include instances of bad driving if your nanny was caught. Taking your nanny for your own test drive or two can help give you a sense of her driving style. Inquiring to past nanny employers about your nanny’s experience in transporting her charges could also provide helpful insight.

Car seat and passenger safety knowledge. Chances are, if your nanny pointed out that your car seats were installed incorrectly (which up to 90% or more are), she’s concerned and knowledgeable about child passenger and car seat safety. Other indicators would include if she suggests you have your seats checked by a child passenger safety technician or if she is a safety technician herself, points out any aftermarket car seat products you have and suggested that they not be used, and asks if you have the children’s emergency contact information affixed to their car seats.

Insurance. When anyone is transporting your children you’ll want to be sure that they have proof of the proper insurance. If your nanny would be using your vehicle to transport the children, you’ll also want to make sure she is added as an additional insured driver. If she’ll be using her own vehicle, you’ll want to ensure that her coverage allows for transporting children as part of her job duties. Whether your nanny would be driving your vehicle or hers, it’s important to make sure that it’s safe for transporting the children.

Boundaries. For some parents, allowing their nanny to transport their children is not a black and white issue. For example, in some instances driving back roads to the library may be acceptable, but driving on the highway to the zoo is not. Some parents won’t want their nanny doing any personal errands, and others will gladly allow their child to accompany their nanny to the bank or post office, where they can experience and learn about waiting in line, how the bank or post office works, and what the workers there do. Some parents may prefer that their nanny calls upon leaving home and arriving at her destination, while others view that as an added stress and prefer the nanny to just call if assistance is needed.  Establishing boundaries that fit your family and clearly communicating them to the nanny can ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to transporting the kids.

Your comfort level. Above all else, your comfort level must be considered as you contemplate allowing your nanny to drive your children. Evaluating your level of trust for your nanny, your realistic versus perceived fears, and how much discomfort you’re willing to endure if it means your children having the opportunities you want them to have will help guide you in your decision making.

When hiring a nanny or babysitter, it’s essential to discuss the possibility of her driving the children during the interview. Many nannies expect that they’ll be allowed to transport the children, especially if they work outside the realms of public transportation. If your nanny has that expectation and it wasn’t uncovered prior to the nanny’s start date, it could be problematic. Few seasoned and professional nannies are willing to take on a position that requires them to stay in the home all of the time. If you’re against your nanny transporting the children, hiring a nanny without a license may be your best bet, as a nanny who doesn’t drive won’t have any interest in transporting your children.

 

General Safety Issues, High Visibility Safety

TEN WAYS TO SAVE MONEY GOING TO THEME PARKS (Guest Post)

Nearly every kid dreams of going to one of the Disney theme parks during their childhood years, but parents are usually a little more hesitant to book the trip because of the hefty price tag that accompanies it. If you are thinking about taking a trip to a Disney park and are looking to save money, check out the following ways to save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on your trip.  Keep in mind that Disney would like you to think that buying their packages is the best way to save money, but often you can save more by buying things separately.

  1. Stay off the Disney campus.  Surrounding hotels have lower pricing to entice travelers away from staying at Disney.  Keep in mind that you will need to have a way to travel back and forth from Disney if you stay off campus.
  2. Book your trip during the off season.  Disney has many seasons ranging from “Value” to “Peak”.  Unfortunately there isn’t a 3 month period that is considered to be the off season.  Weekdays during the fall months are cheaper, and the period after Thanksgiving and before December 21st, when “Holiday Season” starts, is cheaper to book as well.
  3. Book a hotel that includes breakfast.  While breakfast is one of the least expensive meals to eat out, it can save you a surprising amount of money by eating at the hotel.  Before heading back to your room, grab some extra fruit for a snack later in the day.
  4. Bring along a soft sided cooler.  You are allowed to bring in soft sided coolers to the park, and the ones that will fit in a backpack or are a backpack are ideal.  This allows you to bring in both snacks and lunch.  Plan to stop at a discount store or a grocery store to stock up on some food to take in for when family members start to get hungry.
  5. Plan to eat your evening meal outside of the park.  By dinner time you’ve spent the majority of the day at Disney and everyone is probably ready for a break.  Take this opportunity to head back to your hotel and let everyone rest a bit and freshen up.  Then, before going back to the park, stop and eat something.
  6. Bring a refillable water bottle and flavored packets.  There are water sources around the park that you can fill up a water bottle with, but it’s well water and doesn’t taste very good, so plan on bringing some flavored packets to sweeten up the water.  Staying hydrated at the park is very important since you will be outside much of the time.
  7. Check out local ticket hubs for discounted tickets.  Disney wants you to think that you can’t buy tickets anywhere except through Disney and their affiliates, but this isn’t true.  Keep your eyes open for ongoing deals.  Sometimes you can make a donation to an Orlando hospital and the hospital will give you tickets to Disney for your family.  Different programs like this pop up all year long so keep your eyes open for deals.  Local ticket hubs can save you 5 to 10%, which may not seem like much, but once you do the math it starts to add up.
  8. Join the Cirque club to receive 35% off of tickets.  Joining the club is free and you must buy your tickets 30 days in advance to receive the discount.  The discount is only offered for the Cirque de Soleil performances that are during the Tuesday through Saturday shows.  Check the online club for applicable dates.
  9. Go to Disney Quest for half price.  If you’d like to check out Disney Quest (a virtual-reality theme park in downtown Disney) you can check for a manager’s special.  Often if you go within 2 hours or less of closing you can save half off the ticket price.  It would be something different to do and if you can go for half price it might be worth it.  This discount isn’t always offered so check while you are there.
  10. When renting a car don’t get stuck on size.  If you plan on renting a car once you reach Disney make sure to check rental sites often, because specials do change.  Rebooking your reservation could save you a bundle.  Compact cars tend to rent out first so check the next size up; you can still end up saving because the rental companies may have a bunch of bigger cars they need to rent out and as such will give you a free upgrade.

When it comes to taking young children to Disney, Disney does offer some valuable perks. If you have children ages 3 and under, purchasing a package may get you the most bang for your buck. Children under 3 years old get into Disney parks free, and they eat free at the park buffets and family style restaurants. These perks can add up to tremendous savings for families traveling with young children to Disney.

Many of these tips apply to other big-name theme parks, as well.  The best advice is to do your research ahead of time.  Six Flags, Sea World, and many other theme parks are big attractions to families.  Keeping your children safe in these parks is another big responsibility.  I have noticed many families or groups dressing alike, with the same color tee shirts so they can be easily found.  For toddlers, be sure to have their name, parents’ names, address and cell phone numbers on their clothes just in case they wander astray.  Lastly, prepare a packet of first aid products (especially band-aids and sunscreen) for much-needed relief.  Our thanks to Carrie Dotson, with summernannyjobs.org for this good advice. pb

 

 

General Safety Issues

HOME SECURITY V.S. HOME AUTOMATION (GUEST POST)

There is a school of thought that suggests home security to protect against burglars, fires, and any other unforeseen catastrophe is more attractive to older homeowners. This is because it appeals to their desire to protect their investments in expensive electronics, computers, guns, art, and coins, as well as the house itself. 

This same school of thought says that home automation appeals to a younger, perhaps hipper, crowd because of its focus on cool technology, accessible from smart-phones and designed to control home theater equipment, automatic door and window locks, and interior and exterior lighting. 

Sage wisdom suggests that neither way of thinking about home security and home automation has to be entirely right, or entirely wrong. There isn’t a one-size fits all stance when it comes to these two enhancements.

 While it’s true that the desire to protect your home, belongings, and family against potential disaster does increase with age, this isn’t the only factor that drives the desire to provide a safer home. Increased crime in the area, an overall sense of feeling secure, and a desire for reduced home insurance premiums hits home with all age groups. 

The same holds true for home automation. Gadgets and leading-edge technology may indeed be a younger person’s game, as they say, but not all home automation has to be the “gee whiz” kind that ultimately could take longer to setup and execute than the amount of time it saves. Optimizing central heating and air, remotely turning lights off and on, and even controlling your automatic sprinkler system are all forms of home automation that don’t necessarily appeal to just one age group. 

So, what exactly is http://www.yourlocalsecurity.com/security-tips/? In short, it’s a means of checks and balances, assisted by modern technology, to protect your  home, possessions, and family against things like:

  •          Home invasion
  •          Theft and burglary
  •          Fire, flood, and burst pipes
  •          Carbon monoxide poisoning 

With the assistance of monitored home security equipment, homeowners can protect against these things though the use of:

  •          Door and window sensors
  •          Motion detectors
  •          Medical pendants (panic buttons)
  •          Wireless remotes controls to arm and disarm security systems
  •          Fire and smoke detectors
  •          Carbon monoxide sensors
  •          Wireless cameras
  •          Flood detectors
  •          Control Panels with two-way hands-free communication
  •          Interior and exterior lighting 

In short, protecting your with these methods, are all in the realm of home security. 

So, how does home automation differ? In a nutshell, home automation is just as it suggests. Electronic control systems help homeowners automate certain tasks, and give them to power to control these things in ways that make sense to them, such as:·         Computer-based applications

  •          Third-party website access
  •          Laptop computers
  •          Smartphones, PDAs, and iPads 

Need to turn on some exterior lighting because you’ll be returning home after dark? You can do this with home automation. Through any number of home automation solutions, such functionality is readily available on most of the portable devices people carry today, and is as simple as launching any other interactive app on your smartphone or desktop computer. 

Home automation can also provide homeowners with such solutions as:

  •          Remote control of video surveillance equipment
  •          Remote control of automatic door and window locks
  •          Turning appliances on and off
  •          Optimization of central heating and air equipment
  •          Control over interior and exterior lights
  •          Remote management of Digital Video Recorders and other electronics 

For homeowners looking to have a little more control over certain electronic and electrical systems in their homes, then look no further than the wide range of home automation solutions provided by an ever-evolving industry. 

By Ryan Avila, 

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

WHEN MONITORED SECURITY IS NOT AN OPTION (Guest Post)

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When Monitored Home Security is Not an Option by Melonie McLaurin

If you live in a highly urban area, or even a moderate-to-densely populated residential suburb, the importance of a reliable, monitored home security system for your home and family cannot be overstated.  Each year, crime statistics can vary from state to state and among cities of varying sizes and populations, but watching the nightly news will confirm that crime is on the rise in neighborhoods, including wealthy suburban areas on the outskirts of the inner cities.  A large part of home ownership involves investing in the protection of your home:  from fires, floods, break-ins, home invasions, and other dangers that could present a problem for you whether you are present or away.

In the early days of home security systems in the United States, simply having an alarm installed could suffice to keep criminals at bay.  Once they heard the alarm, they would flee the area without waiting around to see whether anyone followed up.  Today, criminals are more brazen than ever and the sound of an alarm is not by itself enough to send them away from your home.  In these times, a monitored home security system from a trusted brand like ADT is the best way to go.

Monitored home security is security that connects to a monitoring center staffed by real people who are trained to respond to your home alarms remotely, and take the correct action to insure your home is protected.  This is very different than the alarms that simply ring; these alarms are connected to people who, if after attempting to contact you to find out whether you are safe, will have authorities dispatched to the location immediately if no answer is received.  This means that even if you, for some reason, are unable to respond to their attempt to reach you, they will still send help right away.

If you entrust your home to substandard home security, or worse, no home security at all, you run the risk of inviting crime rather than deterring it. Difficult economic conditions contribute to spikes in crime attempts, especially thefts of valuable items such as laptops, jewelry, and other portable objects that can be quickly traded off for cash or other goods.  Why make it easy for them, when you could have electronic, wireless, monitored home security from ADT helping you deter crime 24 hours a day, ready to respond in the event of unplanned emergencies?  Living in the city doesn’t have to cause you worry with adequate home security installed.  Consider it an investment in your peace of mind.

 

 

General Safety Issues

EIGHT DANGERS DRIVERS FACE IN THE SUMMER (GUEST POST)

The arrival of the summer months conjures up images of time spent on the beach, late evenings enjoying the sunset and road trips with family and friends. However, the summer months can also be filled with threats. The arrival of warm weather means much more than the end of the school year and the arrival of summer vacation. Here are 8 things that you need to be aware of if you’ll be driving in the heat. 

1. Heat Kills Batteries

While winter temperatures kill more batteries, high heat can be a serious threat, particularly if your battery is on its last legs anyway. Before summer truly sets in, take your car in for a full charging system test to make sure that your battery, starter and alternator are in good shape. 

2. Tire Condition

The tires on your car are immensely important, though they’re probably one of the last things teen drivers really think about. High heat on asphalt can lead to some serious issues, especially if you’re tooling around on “may-pops”. If your tires are looking a little worse for wear, replace them before the heat gets too high. 

3. Tire Pressure

In addition to tire condition, you need to pay close attention to your tire pressure. Hot temperatures can actually increase your tire pressure substantially. That just increases when you hit the asphalt. Too much tire pressure can cause a blowout on the road, so make sure you keep a close eye on your tire pressure all summer long. 

4. Engine Overheating

Summer heat can do a number on everything, including your car’s engine. This is particularly true if you’re running your air conditioner (using the AC heats up your engine more). Make sure to have a full cooling system check done before the heat sets in for good, and if your engine does overheat, pull over and let it cool down before you do anything. 

5. Wildlife

Summer means more cars on the road, but it also means an increased chance of having an animal encounter. Deer are perhaps the most obvious animals you might encounter when driving, but there are many others depending on where you live. Be observant at all times because animals are much more active during the warmer months and an encounter with one can be fatal (for you and the animal). 

6. Summer Storms

Summer thunderstorms are a reality in most places. Drivers should be extremely wary of driving during severe weather. The chances of hydroplaning, driving in high winds, combatting hail and no visibility due to very heavy rain all make summer driving more dangerous. 

7. Beware the Interior

As the sun climbs the sky, temperatures rise higher and higher. While you might be well aware of the dangers of being unprotected outdoors in the high heat, it’s important to understand that your car’s interior is an even more dangerous place, especially for younger siblings and pets. Never, ever leave a pet or a sibling in the car during the summer, not even with the windows cracked. 

8. A False Sense of Security

“The lazy days of summer” should be just that – days filled with relaxation and enjoyment. However, that can lead to a false sense of security when on the road. Do not let the “summer feel” lull you into being unobservant or overconfident. Always pay full attention to what you’re doing. 

Following these simple tips will help ensure that you stay safe while on the road this summer, and avoid potentially deadly situations behind the wheel.

Don Elfrink is the owner and operator of AutoMatStore, an auto flooring company based out Columbia, Missouri. Before AutoMatStore, Elfrink was the operator of a automotive production site. AutoMatStore focuses on all-weather, logo, carpeted and molded car mats.  Again, thanks, Don, for the great information you sent us! pb

 

General Safety Issues

Ten Breeds of Dogs that CoExist Well With Children (Guest Post)

There is good reason for dogs to be called man’s best friend: they are loyal, loveable and playful. But when your kids start begging for a new puppy, you need to do some homework.  There may be some breeds that simply don’t create a safe environment for small children.  Here is a list of loyal and lovable pets that kids will enjoy.
1. Blue Lacy – Not that well known, Lacys are the epitome of loyalty. They are protective provided you show them love, and can be roughhoused with playful children. They don’t mind the ear pulling or the tail pulling; most of them understand that it is a child they are dealing with. Just keep them active and eating right, and you will have a best friend for 12 to 15 years.
2. Beagle – The star of the childhood book “Shiloh,” young beagles are lovable and playful. When trained properly, they are about as loyal as a dog can get.
3. Golden Retriever – Perhaps the most popular dog on this list, golden retrievers are known worldwide for being loyal and outgoing. They work well with kids and can handle some rough play. They are also highly intelligent, which is why many of them are used as helper dogs.
4. Labrador – A type of retriever, the ‘lab’ is an eternally loyal and loving pet. Because of their heightened sense of smell, labs are used by the military and police to track down drugs or guns. While that trait doesn’t help you in your family, it does show that they are good with all kinds of people.
5. Bull Dog – The bull dog makes this list because it is generally the most protective. When bull dogs make an attachment to a family, they will protect that family. With some proper training, your kids will love the slobbering small statured dogs.
6. Collie – Made famous by “Lassie,” collies are great and active dogs. They are also highly intelligent and can be trained to fit your family needs. You just have to make sure that you give them plenty of playtime, and they will form a loyal bond with your family.
7. Pug – As adorable as they are ugly, pugs are rarely aggressive and work well with children. They can be playful one day and docile the next, depending on their mood. Some pugs will face health problems later in their lives, so regular visits to the vets is something you will have to keep in mind.
8. Poodle – As surprising as it sounds, poodles can be very good with kids. There are a variety of poodles to choose from, some more laid back than most. As an added bonus, many of the breeds have hypo-allergenic, meaning that the fur won’t bother your allergies.
9. Saint Bernard – Slow, big and lovable, Saint Bernards can hold a special place with a family. Also, as an added bonus, many cartoons depict the dogs as rescue dogs that carry little wooden flasks of booze around their necks. And cartoons never embellish the truth.
10. A mutt – To go down to the local pound and pick out your dog of choice is one of the more rewarding aspects of dog ownership. You fall in love with a dog and you get the chance to save it. Many mutts are thankful to get out of the cage, and will be your family’s friend for life.

Molly, thank you for this insight into choosing the right breed of dog for your children.  We have had just about every type of dog known, and have found that the mutts are usually the best choice.  As you said, you are not only saving a precious life, but you are creating the gift of unconditional love that your family will receive for years to come.
Molly Cunningham – Liveinnanny.com 

General Safety Issues

Four Things Your Employees Need to Know About Hazardous Waste, & Recyclable Oil (Guest Post)

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Hazardous Waste, Recyclable Oil, and 4 things your employees need to know. 

Being knowledgeable about the dangers of all chemicals in your workplace is the first step to a safer work environment.

As one of the most valuable resources the Earth has to offer, oil is commonly found in many workplaces, from factories and plants to gas stations and restaurants. While oil is necessary it can also be a danger to employees if not labeled and handled properly. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) outlines a number of safety guidelines to ensure workers handle all materials correctly.

The biggest and most important responsibility of an employer is being informed and protecting all employees. Here are four of the most important steps an employer can take to ensure safety:

Know The Materials You’re Working With

Often the words “waste oil” and “used oil” are used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Waste oil is oil that has been contaminated and cannot be used for its intended purpose. Waste oil can be hazardous and must be disposed of or stored according to strict OSHA regulations to prevent illness or accident. Used oil is oil that has been used for its intended purpose and can now be recycled and re-refined to be used again. Both types pose a threat to drinking water sources and thus must always be carefully handled.

Be Prepared

Oil is a class B fire hazard, meaning it requires specific fire extinguishers that use sodium or potassium bicarbonate. Chemical hazards can cause serious dangers when they are not thoroughly controlled. Oil can cause fires, explosions, and toxic emissions. Employers are also responsible for providing fire prevention information, safe exits, escape routes, and hazard communication. If people remain informed and prepared, many of the risks associated with oil use and storage can be prevented.

Provide Your Employees with Protection

OSHA requires that all businesses provide safety training, personal protective equipment, and an emergency action plan. By keeping up to date on regulations and guidelines, employers can ensure that they are not liable when things go wrong. Furthermore, employers are responsible for reporting any injuries or illnesses that occur while on the job. By doing so, they can prevent future accidents. Conducting business in a safe and secure way gives employers the power to be efficient.

Stay Up To Date

OSHA frequently releases new information and statistics to help businesses maintain the best possible working conditions. Each year OSHA holds a safety conference which presents the newest information available about conditions in the workplace. In addition, when employers receive new rules, regulations, or warnings they are responsible for relaying the information to their employees and taking the appropriate steps for compliance and improvement.

Having all information and safety equipment prominently displayed and explained will keep employers and employees safe and competent. While working with oil is often unavoidable, the dangers associated with it are avoidable and should be treated with care and concern. 

General Safety Issues

ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING MSDS INFORMATION (Guest Post)

  • Portland, Oregon – Graphic Products, Inc., the world’s leading safety and industrial label printer and supplier, has released three new FREE labeling guides for facility and plant managers worldwide:  
    • Available Fault Current Labeling Guide: Provides an overview of the National Electrical Code Article 110 labeling requirements, recently updated in 2011. This guide contains information about required NEC compliant labels and includes labeling examples. It also highlights the method used to calculate available fault current, which must be displayed on labels.
    • OSHA HazCom 2012 Best Practices Guide for Labeling: Reviews the U.N.’s Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) standards. OSHA’s recent decision to adopt GHS standards means changes for most facilities as soon as December 1, 2013. This guide keeps you ahead of the curve by training your workers on OSHA-GHS standards before the deadline.
    • SDS Quick Reference Labeling Guide for HazCom 2012: Provides information on the U.N. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) format, which is replacing the old MSDS format. SDS is globally recognized. These sheets are an important element of the new GHS labeling standards. Use this guide to learn about SDS formatting and train workers before the December 1, 2013 deadline. 

    Graphic Products, Inc. launched the DuraLabel labeling system to facilitate pipe marking, OSHA/safety labeling, wayfinding signs and labels, arc flash, lockout/tagout, mine safety, wire marking, barcoding, and floor marking.

    Contact Graphic Products today to request these new guides and discover many other free informative guides. Visit www.GraphicProducts.com to learn more. To speak to a Graphic Products representative call 1-888-532-6787 or email fastresponse@graphicproducts.com. 

    The above information was sent to us by Jack Rubinger, with DuraLabel, who often sends helpful articles on industrial safety.  Our parent company, Texas America Safety Company, www.tasco-safety.com, also has all types of MSDS binders, MSDS posters, index dividers, attachment chains, Right to Know centers, racks, and even an “over the seat” holder for your car or truck.  This holds the notebook, MSDS binder, and clipboard .  Thanks to Jack for helping  ensure that you are compliant with the latest labeling or product changes.