Monthly Archives: January 2013

General Safety Issues

HOW TO DO A BASIC SAFETY INSPECTION WHEN LOOKING AT A HOME (GUEST POST)

By Alan Brady.

When looking to buy a house,  you’ll always need to hire a professional inspector in order to obtain a mortgage. When you’re first out looking for a house to buy you’ll want to be aware of a few of the most important safety concerns that a house might have, and how you can find them, so that you don’t waste your time on a house that the inspector will later warn you away from anyway. Here are the most important things to check.

Outside

Before you enter the house, go and take a walk around the outside. Take note of any large trees that are close to the house. Massive root systems can lift up the ground under the foundation of the house and destabilize it. Additionally trees with large branches hanging over the house pose a risk. As the tree ages branches will grow larger and eventually die off, which can result in one falling onto and breaking through your roof. Also examine the exterior walls for any obvious cracks or mold.

Crawlspace

The crawlspace is a good litmus test for the general health of the house. Always ask to see it and bring a flashlight with you. You don’t need to crawl down there necessarily, just poke your head down and shine the light everywhere that you can see. Inhale and smell the air for anything strange. Everything should look dry and relatively unremarkable.

Living Room

If the floor is not carpeted it should be relatively easy to spot any warping or in the floor. Discoloration in on the walls, carpet, or ceiling, or bubbling and peeling paint mean that there is moisture in your walls and floor. This can mean mold, which is extremely hazardous, and even deadly to the young, old, and sickly. What it definitely means is that there is water damage to the home, probably meaning rotted wood, and eventual loss of structural integrity in the home, which is dangerous as well as extremely expensive to fix.

Kitchen and Laundry Rooms

Open all of the cupboards and check them for mold or strange smells. Turn on the water and give it a taste test to see if there is anything obviously wrong with it. Open the cabinet underneath the sink and check to make sure none of the pipes are leaking and that everything looks to be in good order.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are especially prone to molding and water damage. Turn on the water to make sure that everything drains properly. Turn on the fan to ensure that it works and moves a sufficient amount of air. Closely examine the toilet, the sink, the piping underneath the sink, and every nook, cranny, and corner that you can find.

General

An important rule of thumb is to go by your nose. Many of the problems that a house can have are related to decomposition, mold, or pests, all of which smell fairly unpleasant. Another thing to keep in mind is to open and close all of the doors that you come across. If any of them don’t open or close properly a part of the house may have shifted and the ground that it’s sitting on might be slowly moving.

Alan Brady is a real estate and financial enthusiast who loves to blog about personal finance, renting, home ownership and responsible practices for mortgage lawyers for attorneys.com.

 

General Safety Issues

POP QUIZ: HIDDEN HOUSEHOLD HAZARDS (GUEST POST)

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 By Maria Wells of www.Housekeeping.org 

Your child’s home is his safe haven, where he is free to explore and learn about the world while still being in the comfort and security of a safe, familiar environment. There are, however, a variety of household hazards that can present very real dangers to youngsters, especially if they go undetected. Test your knowledge of household safety and hidden hazards for kids with these questions. 

1.) You’re just bringing your brand new bundle of joy home from the hospital and preparing to put him in his crib for the very first time. How does his crib look? 

A)   Filled with fluffy pillows and blankets to keep him warm and cozy, with an adorable matching bumper to protect his head from accidental impacts and a few plush toys for comfort.

B)   No toys or pillows, but plenty of blankets to keep him warm and a bumper to stave off drafts and bumps.

C)   Almost empty, with only a fitted sheet. 

2.) Burns are among some of the most common injuries for children to sustain in the home. Of the many types of burns, which is the most frequent cause? 

A)   Curiosity that leads to the touching of a stove or oven.

B)   Scalds from dangerously hot water.

C)   Accidental burns resulting from contact with heat-styling hair products, space heaters or radiators. 

3.) Tall furniture should be secured tightly against the walls of your home in order to prevent injury to your children. Why? 

A)   Because shelves and other tall, slender pieces of furniture can tip over, falling on a child that’s pulling or climbing on them.

B)   To prevent kids from becoming trapped behind them.

C)   So that the paint or wall coverings aren’t damaged by the furniture if older children jostle them and cause contact with the wall behind them. 

4.) Your television should be mounted to the wall if at all possible, with all cords and wires to media players and sound systems secured. Why is this? 

A)   Because expensive components can be damaged when children pull on the cords.

B)   Because these components, especially newer televisions that are lighter and less stable than their predecessors, can be pulled off shelving units and surfaces by curious toddlers and present an injury risk by falling onto the child when the cords are pulled.

C)   Because children can become entangled in loose wires and cords, which is a strangulation hazard. 

5.) You’re arranging the nursery to prepare for the birth of your child. What is the ideal placement for her crib? 

A)   Near the window, so she’s visually stimulated by the outdoors and can get plenty of fresh air.

B)   As close as possible to central heating and air conditioning vents, in order to ensure that she gets the full effect of heating and cooling.

C)   Away from the window and as removed from drafty areas as possible. 

6.) Grandma is coming to visit, and has a tendency to drop her handbag on low surfaces where your toddler can reach. How do you react to this? 

A)   Let him play. Grandma’s purse is probably filled with stimulating new objects, which encourages him to explore and learn more about the world.

B)   Insist that she move it out of reach because you know that she carries medications in it.

C)   Say nothing in order to avoid offending your mother, but keep a very close eye on your little one while she’s there. 

7.) There are a variety of baby proofing tools and gadgets on the market, including locks for all toilet seats. Why are these implements important for your child’s safety? 

A)   To keep him out of the bacteria-laden water.

B)   Preventing drowning, as top-heavy toddlers can fall headfirst into the toilet as they peer over the seat to investigate and aren’t always able to get themselves back out.

C)   They’re not important and are a nuisance for adults in the house. 

8.) You’ve heard a rumor that your child’s stroller has been recalled, but aren’t sure. How do you proceed? 

A)   Calling the store you purchased it from to ask if any of their strollers have been recalled.

B)   Looking up the make and model on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website.

C)   Watching news outlets closely for any further mention of stroller recalls. 

9.) You’re buying equipment to prepare for the birth of your first child, and find that your budget can’t quite accommodate everything as easily as you’d like. Which of these items is NOT okay to purchase second-hand? 

A)   Cribs. Even if they meet all safety standards and are in good working condition, your child’s crib should always be brand new.

B)   Strollers, because they’re likely to be unhygienic if they’re used.

C)   A car seat, because you don’t know a used seat’s history. 

10.) When your baby begins walking and exploring, how do you make sure that your cleaning supplies are safe? 

A)   Switch to the “green” products manufactured by your favorite brand.

B)   Plan to teach her that the cabinet containing those items are off limits, and rely on her obedience.

C)   Purchase cabinet locks for lower cabinets, and move all cleaning fluids and products to higher cabinets far out of her reach. 

Answers:

1.) C. Crib bumpers have been banned by the city of Chicago and are not recommended by the American Pediatric Association due to a SIDS-risk correlation, which also applies to pillows and thick, fluffy blankets.

2.) B. In order to prevent accidental scalds, it’s a good idea to turn the setting on your water heater to 120 or below.

3.) A. Attempting to climb shelves in order to reach objects high above them is common behavior for young children, and can be very dangerous if unsecured shelving topples over from the additional weight.

4.) Both B and C. While newer television models are lighter and can be more easily pulled off of a surface than older ones, they’re still far too heavy for children to pull onto themselves without sustaining injury. Also, should your child access those cords, he could easily become tangled in them.

5.) C. Placing your child’s crib close to the window poses the double danger of strangulation presented by the cords or ties on blinds and curtains, along with the falling risk when she gets older.

6.) B. Grandma’s will only be miffed momentarily, but the number of children rushed to the emergency room each year after accidentally ingesting prescription medication speaks for itself.

7.) Both A and B. The water in your toilet could be home to plenty of nasty germs, but it can also present a very real drowning risk if your curious little one falls into it.

8.) B. The most effective and dependable method of determining whether or not any item has been recalled is to check with the CPSC.

9.) C. Used car seats may be expired, or could have broken internal parts that were damaged in a previous crash that aren’t obvious to the naked eye. These parts could be central to the seat’s integrity, so it’s always advised to buy new car seats.

10.) C. You can’t rely upon a toddler’s ability to follow instructions to keep her out of dangerous chemical cleaning solutions within her reach, and many products marketed as “green” contain the same chemicals as other products on the market.

 

Thank you for this quiz; we can never be too careful with our children’s safety. Pat

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

Exercises You Can Do From Home (Guest Post)

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In our hectic lifestyle, we generally don’t get enough time to do exercises at the regular interval. So for this reason, sometimes we face difficulty in keeping our body and mind fresh and active. But if we think deeply, then we can still manage our time to do exercises during our stay at our home as well. For this matter, you will need a little bit of imagination. Rather if you do your exercises along with your daily home chores, then you can keep yourself fit and active despite your fast lifestyle.

Walking

It is one of the best free hand exercises for you at your home. The reason is that you have to walk around for your daily household jobs from one corner of your house to the other corner of the your home. It is a kind of physical exercise without any fitness equipment. Moreover, through walking, your whole body will get active and fresh, so you will feel healthy and comfortable.

Jogging          

Actually jogging means walking at a slower pace or leisurely way. So you can do it when you are hearing the music or you are viewing the the blockbuster movies at your home. It is a very good exercise for you at home. If you are fighting with obesity, then jogging will help you much in this matter. It will also help you to control the cardiovascular problem in your body. Moreover, jogging will increase your lifespan and control your aging problem.

Dancing

It is a unique solution for free hand exercise. Moreover, your body will synchronize with your dancing rhythm. Dancing will help you to shed a lot of calories from your body and it will also keep you fit as well. Even, if you are a music lover, then you can learn the dancing style by playing the dancing video clips or from any dance master as well.

Jumping

You can do jumping practices at your home. Particularly, you can do it from any suitable height in your home compound. Rather, you can try it at your backward area where you will get a lot of opportunities for it. Jumping is very much good for cardiovascular problem. But you have to do it after with the consultation of a doctor. The reason is that if you are an older person, then you should do it carefully abiding all health rules.

Weight lifting

It is a good exercise at your home. Actually, you can do it within your house parameter without ignoring its norms. You sometimes can carry a bucket of water from one room to the other room in your home. If you do it at the regular interval, then your body will be fit and comfortable.

So, you can do exercises from your home without any fitness equipment but you should do it with your imagination. Because, you can do exercise more various types than the aforementioned ways in your home if you need more. One interesting point to observe that you will not require spending any money for keeping your body fit and healthy.

About The Author:  

Margaret is a writer/ blogger.  She contributes to Marnie Bennett. Check Here for more on Marnie Bennett.
Eye Protection, General Safety Issues

YOU MUST “SEE” THIS INFORMATION!

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, an important time to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease.  Currently, 2.7 million people in the United States over age 40 have glaucoma. The National Eye Institute projects this number will reach 4.2 million by 2030, a fifty-eight percent increase!

Over 2.7 million Americans, and over 60 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them are unaware that they have it. Combined with our aging population, we can see an epidemic of blindness looming if we don’t raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision. The World Health Organization estimates that 4.5 million people worldwide are blind due to glaucoma.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that gradually steal sight without warning, thus being called the “sneak thief of sight”, as there are no symptoms and once vision is lost, it’s permanent.  Up to forty per cent of vision can be lost without a person noticing. Although the most common forms primarily affect the middle-aged and the elderly, glaucoma can affect people of all ages.  Vision loss is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This nerve acts like an electric cable with over a million wires. It is responsible for carrying images from the eye to the brain.

The two main types of glaucoma are: primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), and angle-closure glaucoma. These are marked by an increase of intraocular pressure (IOP), or pressure inside the eye. When optic nerve damage has occurred despite a normal IOP, this is called normal tension glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma refers to any case in which another disease es or contributes to increased eye pressure, resulting in optic nerve damage and vision loss. Those at higher risk include people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Other high-risk groups include: people over 60, family members of those already diagnosed, diabetics, and people who are severely nearsighted. Regular eye exams are especially important for those at higher risk for glaucoma, and may help to prevent unnecessary vision loss.

In the United States, approximately 120,000 are blind from glaucoma, accounting for nine per cent to twelve per cent of all cases of blindness.

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Vision loss begins with peripheral or side vision, so if you have glaucoma, you may not notice anything until significant vision is lost. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a comprehensive eye examination, because glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness.   Then, if you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, treatment can begin immediately. 

Another factor in maintaining your vision, is to wear the correct eye protection that fits your job.  Vision can be lost due to work-related injuries and other factors.  Please take care of your eyes, by having regular vision checkups and using eye protection while working, biking, yard work, or other activities.  Last, but not least, spread the word about glaucoma!

Source: Glaucoma.org

General Safety Issues

FIVE IMPORTANT TIPS FOR THE CYCLING COMMUTER (GUEST POST)

Five Important Tips for the Cycling Commuter

The price of gasoline has prompted many individuals to reconsider the expense and time efficiency of driving to work and, as a result, cycling has become a more popular form of transportation. Motorcycle owners figured this out long ago, but considerations for motorized vehicles can be different from mechanical transportation. Cycling to work is clearly not for everyone and is not appropriate for all types of employment, but the bicycle enthusiast can find riding a bike to work an enjoyable experience. Individuals that are required to wear a professional attire at work will find it problematic. There are still a few things that all riders should address when riding a bike as primary transportation.

1. Safety First
It is always a good idea to comply with all traffic laws, especially concerning pedestrian movement. Cyclists are pedestrians and have the legal right of way, but being involved in an accident is not an automatic determination of negligence on the part of a motorized driver. Cyclists that are abusing the ability to negotiate traffic can still be operating illegally and share in the blame of an accident. 

2. Follow the Traffic Regulations
Motorized vehicle operators need to be able to predict cyclist movement. Disregarding pedestrian regulations can result in a “reasonable assumption of risk” ruling for the rider in certain accidents, such as hitting a parked vehicle, and any accident attorney Indianapolis or Los Angeles based would probably advise against it. In addition, always wear the appropriate gear, including a helmet or knee pads, and be aware of all other traffic. This is especially true in metro areas where there’s intense traffic congestion.

3. Do Not Ride on a Sidewalk
Sidewalks are often designated for walkers only and riding a bike on a walkway is a dangerous practice. An accident involving a walking pedestrian can still result in a negligence claim against the cyclist, even though insurance is not a requirement. Many paved surfaces, other than the highway, designate that bikers are allowed, and often the lane will be designated specifically for cyclists. It is important to know suitable routes and situations involving unsafe biking conditions. 
4. Carry a Tool Kit
Bicycles are mechanical, and mechanical things break down. Sometimes brakes can get out of adjustment or tires can go flat; it is more important to get home safely than it is to get to work on time. A saddle basket of some type can be a good investment and can also help in transporting things that may be necessary at work. It’s also not a bad idea to carry a rain coat of some sort in case of bad weather. A lock for the bicycle can be absolutely necessary in many locations and should be considered part of the standard operational equipment. 

5. Allow Sufficient Time to Arrive
Cyclists that are in a hurry can cause an accident quickly. It is always a good idea to test-run the route and check the time and distance. The distance may already be known, but the amount of time necessary to ride a bike can be impacted by certain traffic conditions. Plus, it can be much more enjoyable. 

Always remember that accidents can easily occur for a pedestrian cyclist, and the best way to ensure safety and joy is taking your time. If you are in an accident, and you feel as though you weren’t at fault, contact an attorney. And, always remember to assess the possibility of danger before you ride and prepare accordingly. 

Saam Banai is a freelance writer and editor, and he commonly bikes to work alongside fussy vehicles.  Getting into an accident while riding a bike can be devastating to your health, but it doesn’t need to be financially devastating. Contacting the Sevenish Law Firm and talking to an will be the best option for figuring out how to pay for health costs and lost wages.  They proudly fight for the rights of accident victims throughout the state of Indiana, whether involved in car, motorcycle or bicycle cases.  

 

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Respiratory Safety

WORKING WITH ASBESTOS? READ THIS! (GUEST POST)

By Joe McRobert
 
Asbestos is known as the ‘hidden killer’; it is generally not in plain sight, for example, you would find it in walls and ceilings, and it can be very dangerous. It can cause a number of diseases that could potentially be fatal, including Mesothelioma and Asbestosis. These diseases can be caused if the asbestos fibres are inhaled. This is why you need to be fully equipped when you are working with it. It is not always easy to identify either, so this makes it even more dangerous.
 
So if you are already working with asbestos or you are going to be, then you need to have all of the equipment to make sure you are safe. Here is a list of the equipment you need to ensure you are fully protected from the hidden killer.
 
Overalls
You will need overalls to cover the clothing you are wearing otherwise your clothing will be exposed to the asbestos fibres; not only would this be dangerous for you, it can also be dangerous for others near you as they may also inhale the fibres. You need to make sure you are fully covered, so you should avoid tucking your overalls into your boots because dust could get into your boots and you should avoid wearing long-sleeved t-shirts because they are more difficult to cover. You should be supplied with disposable overalls. One thing you should always remember is to not take home the used overalls!
 
Respiratory Protective Equipment
If you are going to be working with asbestos, then this is one of the most important items that should be provided. The respiratory protective equipment will allow you to breathe without the risk of inhaling the asbestos fibres, however you should make sure it is fitted correctly. If it is not fitted correctly, then you could still be at risk of inhaling the deadly fibres; once you have properly fitted your protective mask, you should then put the hood of the overalls up to cover the straps of your mask.
 
Gloves
Another very important item that should be worn every time you are going to be dealing with asbestos is gloves. Disposable gloves are the best for dealing with asbestos because you can dispose of them as soon as you have finished you job.
 
Footwear
Boots are the best type of footwear you can wear when working with asbestos; however, you should avoid wearing laced boots because they are more difficult to clean. The laces on your boots will be exposed to the fibres and you could potentially spread asbestos fibres outside of the workplace. Just make sure your overalls go over the top of the boots to avoid any dust entering your footwear.
 
Protect yourself from the hidden killer and make sure you have everything you need to safely complete the job. Remember that working with asbestos is a dangerous job and you need to be careful. Once you have prepared yourself for the job, you should then make sure anyone you are working with is also prepared. However, if you are ever exposed to asbestos, then be sure to seek medical advice and contact a solicitor, for example Flint Bishop Solicitors, to guide you through your next steps.
 
About the Author: Joe is a business coach that works with small businesses to improve processes for handling health and safety among other things. He is a regular contributor at http://www.businesswinners.net. 
Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Weather Protection

WINTER ITEMS TO HELP THOSE WHO WORK OUTDOORS STAY WARM

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For all those persons who have to work outside – either during winter months or hot summer months, there are many ways to help you stay warm or cooler, depending on the season.  Since it’s winter for sure, let’s talk about the many safety items that offer extra warmth.  (We just happen to know where you can find several types of these, too): 

  1. Winter Liners:   There are different types of winter liners, all made to help keep your ears and neck warm underneath your hardhat or other type of headgear you must wear on the job.  Some have drawstrings so you can tighten them up, and others are stretchy so they can be pulled back over the brim of the hardhat.  These are not only excellent for workers, but for hunters, and others who enjoy the outdoors. 
  2. Warm Gloves: Nothing says “warm” like a toasty pair of gloves.  If our fingers are stiff, we aren’t able to function; frostbite may be just a nip away! 
  3. Hand or Foot Warmers:  These handy little hot packs keep the cold away.  They last for hours, too. (Please scroll down on this page to see the hot packs and some other excellent information.)
  4.  Boots: Everyone knows you must have a good foundation: boots that are comfortable in cold weather, and have good soles to keep you well-balanced all day! (Kind of like the cereal you have for breakfast!)
  5. Polarized Safety Glasses:  These won’t keep you warm, but our eyes risk being damaged by UV rays, winter or summer.  Glare off snow and ice can hurt your eyes.  Keep them protected by wearing some safety sunglasses with UV protection.
  6.  Heavy duty rainsuits and boots:  If you work in areas that are prone to rain, it’s good to keep this kind of personal protective equipment in your work vehicle.  That way it’s handy when you need it to keep you dry.

We hope all you outdoor workers and outdoorsmen and women stay safe, warm and dry this winer.  There is a myriad of occupational products just designed to help you stay that way. Our Parent Company, Texas America Safety Company, and Blog4Safety thank you for the opportunity to make these suggestions for your winter warmth.

 

 

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Weather Protection

TEN RULES FOR SAFE OUTDOOR PLAY THIS WINTER (GUEST POST)

By Barbara Williams of www.findababysitter.org 

With rising childhood obesity rates and the increasing illnesses that accompany a sedentary lifestyle, it’s no secret that kids should be encouraged to get outside and engage in active play. As the lower temperatures approach, so does cold and flu season, which can be greatly exacerbated when kids are held indoors where germs can easily be spread through respiratory droplets and exhalations. Keeping kids safe while they’re out in the cold, however, is an absolute necessity. The following guidelines can help you ensure that your kids’ activity levels don’t suffer at the onset of winter and that they stay safe until the spring thaw rolls around.

  1. Use Sunscreen – Protecting kids’ skin from the damaging rays of the sun is a major priority for most parents and caregivers during the summer months, but one that often falls to the wayside when temperatures cool down. In fact, the reflection of the sun off of snow and ice can be almost as damaging as direct exposure. Make sure that your youngsters are slathered with sunscreen before they hit the outdoors. Another tip is to protect their eyes with sunglasses that have UV protection. Glare from snow, and other bright winter backgrounds can damage their eyes the same as in warm weather.
  2. Waterproof Clothing is Key – Keeping kids warm during the winter chill relies heavily upon your ability to keep them dry. Melting ice and snow can leave most fabrics wet, soggy and very cold. Make sure that you invest in some waterproof or water-resistant clothing and shoes, especially proper boots.
  3. Know the Signs of Frostbite – Frostbite occurs when your child’s skin or extremities are literally frozen. The nose, ears, fingers, cheeks and toes are most commonly affected, and it can be quite dangerous when these extremities suffer from frostbite. Signs of superficial frostbite include itching, numbness, tingling or burning sensations. The affected skin may become white, flushed, yellow or blue and appear frozen, and will be cold to the touch.
  4. Dress for Success – Just because your kids are bundled against the cold doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re wearing safe clothing. Hoods and hats don’t take the place of helmets for activities like biking or skating, while tight clothing that restricts movement can present a danger as it inhibits kids’ ability to move and balance properly. Be sure that your brood is dressed appropriately for outdoor play, not just for cold temperatures.
  5. Insist on Warm-Up Breaks – When kids are enjoying themselves and are particularly absorbed in an activity, it’s easy for them to lose track of time. That’s why it’s important for you to insist on periodic warm-up breaks to check for signs of hypothermia or frostbite and ensure that they don’t get too cold.
  6. Keep Ice Skating Safe – Ice skating is a beloved, time-honored cold-weather outdoor activity. It can also be quite dangerous, though. Public areas designated for ice skating are far safer than ponds or bodies of water on your own property, which may not be thoroughly frozen and could crack under kids’ weight. Be sure that any ice your children are going to skate on is frozen solid, and that they’re wearing the right protective gear.
  7. Smart Sledding – Racing down a snow-covered hill on a sled is one of life’s great thrills, even for adults. Kids love sledding, but it’s important that they understand the basic safety rules before setting out. Sledding down hills that terminate near a road, down paths that have obstacles like jumps, rocks or bumps, or down icy slopes are all sledding safety no-nos. Kids should also never be pulled on sleds behind moving vehicles of any kind.
  8. Don’t Forget About Dehydration – Dehydration isn’t a concern reserved solely for warm-weather months. While your children are enjoying a session of outdoor play, be sure that they’re taking in plenty of fluids.
  9. Scarf Safety – Scarves are useful tools for protecting against the cold, as they can be wrapped around almost any part of the body that feels cold. However, they can also become ensnared in moving parts of toys or overhanging branches, closed in doors, or otherwise tangled in a manner that presents a strangulation risk. It’s better to opt for cowl-style scarves until kids are a bit older and less rambunctious.
  10. Double-Check Equipment – Making sure that any equipment for outdoor play, whether new or old, is in good condition, fits properly and is otherwise suitable for use before sending kids outside with it. Damaged or broken equipment can very easily cause injuries, especially if kids are using them improperly to compensate for the damage.

While outdoor play is important and can help to stave off cold-weather ailments, like the flu or the common cold, it’s important to understand that there are times when it’s simply too cold for your brood to safely be outside. Extreme temperatures can be very dangerous, causing a child’s body to lose heat faster than it can be generated. The end result is hypothermia, which can be life-threatening.

General Safety Issues

Four Ways to Avoid Being Pulled Over for Mistaken DUI (Guest Post)

The recent popularity of controlled substances and the use of legally prescribed medications have prompted all police departments to be conscience of the possibility of impaired operators, regardless of the presence of alcohol. In addition, contemporary vehicles are engineered for excellent performance and exceeding the speed limit is easy in any driving zone. Conversely, many vehicles experience regular maintenance problems that can go unrecognized and instigate a traffic stop. Secondary offenses are not legally sufficient to warrant action by the officer unless a primary driving offense has occurred, but always remember that the officer is an officer of the court and his testimony will have a significant bearing on the case. Officer observances carry considerable latitude, even though those charged with a mistaken DUI can be acquitted with the help of a proper defense. 

Follow All Traffic Regulations
Failure to comply with vehicle operation statutes is one of the first indicators to an officer that a motorist is intoxicated. Maintaining the proper traffic lane is the most basic of rules and can create officer attention immediately. Using turn signals is also important, along with using them in the appropriate distance before turning or changing lanes. Turn signals should be in indication mode at least 100 feet from the intersection. Avoiding congested traffic can also be a good defense against being questioned concerning intoxication because combative drivers can create dangerous situations and alert defensive drivers often need to be creative to avoid a collision. Patrolmen can be included in the congested traffic and easily stop the wrong driver. Additionally, never operate an automobile without engaging the seat belts. Many states have enhanced seat belt laws to a primary driving offense and it is sufficient to warrant stopping a motorist. 

Lack of Proper Sleep 

Perhaps one of the most dangerous ways to drive, other than being drunk or under the influence of certain medications, is to drive tired.  Lack of rest can severely influence how you’re able to handle the road; your alertness, ability to read signs and process important information, and keep your eyes on the road are all at the mercy of a good night’s rest.   

Defective Vehicle Equipment

The intensified scrutiny of motorists has also initiated a focus on proper vehicle equipment. All turn signals should be in proper operating condition, including brake lights and backup lights. The most obscure problem in vehicle operation is probably the light above the license plate, which is required on both the front and back in some states. Additionally, improper use of the high beam headlights can result in a traffic stop. The headlights are the most important safety component of an operational vehicle. Attempting to drive a vehicle is a state of disrepair can result in an intoxicated driving investigation by default. 

Legal Medications
Just because a doctor prescribes medication for an individual does not give them the authority to take the medication and drive, even under prescribed instructions. Never operate a vehicle under the influence of intoxicants, even if they are legal for the driver. It is legal to possess them when they are in the proper container, but it is important for the operator to make sure that they are, and that they are in the proper amounts. In the event you are charged with driving under the influence of legal medications, your container and prescribed doses will be pertinent pieces of information — whether you’re using a Los Angeles or Orlando Criminal Team DUI defense.
The single most important component of driving in avoidance of a traffic stop is simple. Always drive in a defensive manner and observe the speed limit. Prepare the vehicle for a clean traffic stop. Individuals that are taken to a medical facility and are under the influence of a prescribed drug may have a good case to present to the court, especially with solid, experienced and effective counsel. Many medications have half-life potency and this fact can be presented in court as a reason for any positive testing for a legal prescription because intoxication levels are difficult to detect with many legal medications. 


Saam Banai is a freelance writer, editor, and fighter for focused driving. The driver who’s experiencing false charges for drunk driving would be best suited calling a firm like Katz & Phillips P.A., which provides experienced DUI defense. Don’t take a chance in losing your license. Place your trust in an experienced lawyer who knows DUI law inside and out and can protect your rights so you can keep on driving.