Category Archives: First Aid Safety

First Aid Safety, Uncategorized

BED BUGS……THEY’RE BAAAAACK!

We have told our kids “sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite,” and really never given it a thought.  I’ve never even seen a bed bug, so I’ve had to do a little research about these critters.  When news headlines are about the infestation of bed bugs, it’s bad, but not as bad as being taken over by aliens from outer space. 

New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit, Cincinnati, and Chicago are listed as the Top Five bed bug-infested cities in the United States, according to Terminix, based on volume of calls they have received throughout the country so far this year.  We have seen it on the news in our area of Texas, and read reports that these bugs are rampant all over the United States. 

How has this happened? Well, it’s actually pretty easy, on the part of the bugs.  Seems they really like to travel.  More people are traveling all over the world, and don’t realize that they may be giving the bugs a free ride back to the States, and to their own homes.  Then they also may be furnishing transportation to them to their office, church, library, or elsewhere.  Cleanliness (or lack of it) is not the cause of bed bugs.  Many people hesitate to call professional pest control because they are embarrassed.  These tiny bugs are attracted to human bodies and act as small vampires, feeding on their blood!  The bites they may leave are more harmless than mosquito bites.  Most of the time, the worst thing that could happen is infection from scratching the bite.  (You might want to keep some benadryl or antihistimine on hand in case of an allergic reaction.)

When you are traveling, don’t put your suitcases on the floor, but on a luggage rack.  Bed bugs can hide in furniture, cracks and crevices, clothing, and they love traveling by ship, plane, or rail cabins, or staying in the nicest five-star hotels.  They also live in dormitories, summer camps, apartment buildings, hospitals, and movie theaters.  Tiny little critters, bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed.  When checking your bedding, you may see their droppings, which are roughly the size of a flake of black pepper.  

When you return from a trip, try to unpack your belongings in the garage and place them in a plastic bag, until you can inspect them.  Washing laundry (especially bedding) in hot water and drying it in a hot dryer will kill bed bugs.  Don’t try to eradicate them with do-it-yourself sprays, as it may just encourage them to move on to your neighbors’ house or apartment, rather than get rid of them.  You’d be getting rid of them, but at someone else’s expense.  These bugs are not interested in living in unsanitary conditions, they just want to be where we humans are.  

Keep your eye out for these invasive reddish-brown little bugs.  Seek professional pest-control help.  Then you can “sleep tight, knowing they’re not there to bite!”

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

NEW HIRES NEED YOUR HELP

During this time of a bad economy, there are persons that are desperate for a job, and they may be happy to take one that has nothing to do with the type of work they have done in the past.  People from all professions have found themselves ousted from occupations that they have been doing for years, and are willing to take whatever comes their way, even when they may be overqualified, or lack experience in the particular job they take.  When this happens, becoming familiar with a new work situation and understanding safety issues are two of the most important things they must learn. 

It’s a known fact that during the first month on a new job, new hires are susceptible to injuries.  They should receive basic safety training from the very beginning.  Getting them acquainted with their coworkers and new surroundings is very important.  Other workers can serve as mentors and see that they understand the requirements of their job before letting them proceed alone.  In a work environment that involves machinery, the new hires must be properly taught the use of the machines, all about tools, and hazardous processes.

Of course, in occupations where Personal Protective Equipment is required, the new employee should be instructed to wear it at all times while on the job.  Whether it’s head, hand, eye, hearing, or any other type of protection, new workers should understand how to wear and maintain each particular item that they are furnished.  

Knowing how to fill out an accident report or a near miss report is another important part of orientation.  If there is an on-the-job injury, they must realize that it is urgent to notify a supervisor at the time of the injury.  If chemicals are involved in the job, understanding about Material Safety Data Sheets is a must. 

We’ve all been through the “first job” experience.  Everyone understands how nerve-wracking it can be to tackle and understand all that is expected of you.  Put yourself in the place of a new young hire, eager to learn, but somewhat overwhelmed.  You may be able to teach that person lessons that will stay throughout his/her career.  For someone who is starting all over, do whatever you can to make his/her transition a little easier. 

Take your job seriously.  There’s no room for horseplay in the work area.  Time for fun is during breaks, not when someone might get hurt while working.   Most companies train their employees on what to do in case of an accident, or how to call for help. First aid kits should be available in all areas of the workplace. 

Even though Human Resources Departments complete a checklist of items while conducting an orientation, it takes time and experience for a new hire to really get the big picture.  Once they are on the job, workers must not be afraid to ask their supervisors questions.  Paying attention to the answer may keep everyone safer.  Good luck to everyone who is starting a job, and best of luck to those who are looking for employment.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

“HANDS ONLY” CPR RECOMMENDED

Hopefully, you’ve heard the latest news about “hands only” cardiopulmonary resuscitation recommended by medical experts.  Having passed a CPR class, this news comes as a relief to me, because I have always wondered if I could really perform the “mouth-to-mouth,” or rescue breathing that might be necessary in the event that I needed to help someone.  Note: this recommendation applies to lay people only.  Emergency Medical Personnel still must do both rescue breathing and chest compressions on all patients, including children. 

Two studies were conducted from 2004 to 2009, involving 3,000 men and women who needed CPR during that period.  One was done in the United States and the other study was in Europe.  Certain patients received the hands only type of CPR, and the others received rescue breathing, along with chest compressions.  Patients in the study were all adults, and statistics showed that patients had almost identical survival rates.  Dr. Myron Weisfeldt, Physician In Chief at Johns Hopkins Hospital states these findings illustrate that in CPR, “less is better.”  However, Dr. Weisfeldt did state that certain patients, such as those with sudden acute heart failure, severe chronic lung disease, or acute asthma should receive rescue breathing in addition to chest compressions.  

It is hoped that this finding will encourage more bystanders to get involved in helping someone who may be experiencing a heart attack.  By performing CPR soon after a heart attack, the likelihood of survival increases twofold.  If you see a person in distress, call 9-1-1, or quickly ask someone standing by to do so.  Place hands one on top of the other on the center of the patient’s chest, and begin chest compressions, which need to be hard and fast.  Try to do 100 compressions per minute.  ABC News reported that one medical source suggested doing compressions to the beat of the song, “Stayin’ Alive” while you are performing the compressions.  (It might be difficult to think of that during an emergency, but as they were demonstrating it, there really was a good beat, as well as a good message!) 

I know that I feel better knowing that the “hands only” system may help someone in trouble; I just wasn’t sure that I could clear a person’s airway and perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.  So far, I haven’t had to try, but I am certainly willing to give it my best if an emergency arises.  It would be a good idea for everyone to take a CPR class.  You never know when you might save the life of someone you love very much or a complete stranger.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

HERE’S THE BUZZ ON THOSE SUMMER PESTS!

Well, we’re here in the latter part of July, and still have lots of warm days ahead of us before there’s relief from the heat and those little critters that make summer oh, so much fun!  If you work outdoors or plan any kind of outside recreation, it’s important to be prepared before the mosquitoes land to do their vampire act on you.  

In addition to mosquitoes, bees and wasps are always unwelcome guests at your picnic table. Their beverage of choice is any sugary drink that is left unopened; be aware that they might just crawl right inside the soda can and be waiting for an unsuspecting person to pick it up and take a drink.  Bees are attracted to bright colors, too.  Wear light colors and don’t load up on perfume, as they are infatuated by the latest fragrances, too.  

Mosquitoes use standing water as a breeding ground, so be sure to check out any containers that collect water at least once a week.  Many bug repellents work longer if they contain high concentrations of their formulas.  

Don’t get ticked off this summer!  If you are in tall grass, and wildflower areas, you may attract ticks.  They just might latch onto your dog, too.   It’s best to spray your clothes with an insect repellent before you take that hike. Ticks have been known to carry Lyme Disease, so be sure to remove them from yourself or your dog, using disposable gloves.  Be sure to have a flea/tick collar on your animals this summer.  Chiggers are small little pests that can really make your skin itch, but repellents should take care of them, as well. 

Always keep a first aid kit  handy in case of bites and stings, and be sure you have some Benadryl in case of an allergic reaction.  There are many types of personal protection towelettes that help protect you.   Remember to use lots of sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses that block out UV rays.    It helps if you know what poison ivy, sumac, and oak look like, so you can avoid them. 

Even though it may seem trivial, these tiny insects and poisonous plants can make you miserable.  Take the necessary precautions to avoid them.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

IMPORTANT SUMMER SAFETY REMINDER

Sooner or later, all of us have to drive on busy freeways.  Those who live in small towns find it a little intimidating to drive in heavy traffic, (at least, I do!).  While visiting my daughter in Georgetown, Texas, last week, I asked her for some topics to feature in our safety blog.  Her daily route to and from work is on Interstate 35.  She mentioned that debris on the highway is a problem and causes very serious accidents.  She and her husband watched a tire and wheel from an 18-wheeler going the opposite way, cross the median, and roll across four lanes of traffic before it came to a stop beside the highway.  Luckily, no vehicles were hit, but a very serious accident could have resulted.  She also said she sees ladders, tools, boxes, and other debris often during her commute.
This is a common problem throughout the U.S.  California reports that approximately 25,000 accidents per year are caused by debris.  A Los Angeles County deputy sheriff died when he swerved to dodge a stove that had fallen off a truck in front of him.  (The driver who didn’t secure the stove has been charged with murder and may face twenty-five years to life if convicted.)  Officials responsible for road clean up in California say that they collect enough junk from their state highways alone to fill up the Los Angeles Coliseum 8’ deep.  You can find similar stories from every state in the U.S.
Recycling is becoming big business, and there is more demand for scrap metal, cardboard, and scrap paper.  Many persons fill up their pickup beds to the max to haul junk to recycle stations.  Failing to secure their loads can be costly in some states.  California and ten other states are increasing penalties for losing loads on the roadways.  Fines may be as much as $5,000; if the lost debris causes an accident, persons can be jailed up to one year.
Overfilled gravel trucks can also cause accidents.  Examples of debris include, rocks, boulders, grease, engine oil, plants and their branches, etc., furniture, mattresses, garbage, nails, screws, glass, auto parts, lumber, tires, construction supplies, and animal corpses.  You can probably name other things you’ve seen on busy freeways.
Drivers that are hauling things should inspect their loads before they begin their journey.
There are littering laws and penalties that all travelers should follow.  If you see an unsafe load, get the license number of the vehicle and notify authorities.  It might help prevent an accident.
This is a difficult subject to even think about, but a very important one to pass on to our readers.  We are getting into the hottest time of the year, and so far, eighteen children have died of hyperthermia, eight of them since June 13th.  Hyperthermia is a rapid and often fatal rise in body temperature.  These young victims were left in cars.  We read about a parent or family member that simply forgot about the little passenger in the back seat.  We also read about children that climbed into unlocked cars in the driveway to play and then couldn’t get out, only to later be found dead.  Keep your parked car locked at all times.
July is known as the most deadly month for children to be trapped in cars.  Their respiratory and circulatory systems can’t handle heat the same as adults.  Hyperthermia is the third-leading cause of death in non-traffic related incidents involving children and vehicles.  It takes only 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to spike 19 degrees, and then can go up to 29 degrees in 20 minutes.  On a 78° day, the temperature inside a car can climb to 97° in just ten minutes.
Organizations such as the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, KidsandCars.org, and PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) are among several others that warn parents not to leave their kids or animals unattended in or near vehicles.  PETA and KidsandCars urges “the most vulnerable beings among us– children and animals, need and deserve our protection.  Never leave a child or animal in a parked car on hot or even warm days.  Always leave dogs and cats at home, especially during a heat wave.”
It’s hard to understand how anyone can become so distracted that they would forget about a child in the back seat of their vehicle.  But it happens, and happens often.  It is suggested by the experts that drivers should place a purse, briefcase, or cell phone near the child’s seat as a reminder to retrieve the child.  Don’t become so overwhelmed by everyday pressures that you forget the most important person in the world, your child.
Get involved.  If you see a child or animal that has been left in a car, call 911.
  
Since this article was written on June 28 of this year, according to statistics from San Francisco State University, the total of children that have died from hyperthermia has reached 36 - double what we reported in late June!  The total for the entire year of 2010 was 33.  They also furnished statistics on the circumstances of these deaths, totaling 443 from 1998 through 2009.  Here are the terrible facts:
  
  
51% were forgotten by care giver or parent
  
  
30% were playing in an unattended vehicle
  
  
18% were intentionally left in a vehicle by an adult
  
  
This is one safety product that is advertised on the internet.  If you have a child passenger, you may want to check into this or a similar one.
  
  
Here’s how it works:
  
  
The seat pad is placed under existing car seat cushion.
  
  
Baby is placed in car seat, which activates the safety system,
  
  
This activates receiver, located on the driver's key ring.
  
  
If driver exits the car without removing baby from car seat an alarm sounds on driver's key ring.
  
  
If the driver does not hear or respond to the alarm within a predetermined elapsed time, a louder alarm, using a voice synthesizer, saying  ''Baby in Danger'' will activate from the seat pad itself, hopefully alerting passers by to the dangerous situation.
You may save a life.
Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

HOW SAFE IS YOUR HOME?

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Not only is the month of June National Safety Month, but also National Home Safety Month, as designated by the Home Safety Council.  We know that “a man’s home is his castle,” but how many of us have looked around to see how many hidden dangers are lurking in our castles?
For example:
q Does your family have an evacuation plan in case of fire?
q Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher?
q Do you know how to extinguish a fire on the stove or oven?
q Have you ever left your house with the washer or dryer running?
q Do you leave candles unattended?
q Do you unplug appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, waffle irons, after using them?
q Do your stairs have ample lighting at top and bottom to prevent falls?
q Are there hazards in your house that might injure a child?
q Have you installed electric plug outlets, locks on medicines, and door latches?
q Are emergency numbers such as fire department, police, etc. posted in easy-to-find places?
q Do you have an emergency supply kit that will provide water, non-perishable foods, flashlight, medications, first aid kit, etc. in case of a natural disaster?
q Is your water heater set for 120° F or less?
q Do you check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly?
q Do you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
q When you leave for a period of time, do you make arrangements with friends, family, or neighbors to pick up your mail, papers, etc., in order to not tempt burglars?
q Have you done a check of an elderly friend or parent’s home to make sure there are no fall hazards, and that they have an alert device if they live alone?
q Do you use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower?
q Do you constantly supervise children in or near water, such as bathtubs or pools?
These are just a few questions that everyone needs to be sure they can answer.  According to the Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in AmericaÔ reports, there are more than 21 million medical visits and almost 20,000 deaths that result from home injuries each year.  The Home Safety Council’s goal is to educate and empower families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.
We feel sure that we all can look around and see things that we could do to make our homes safer.  Those who work in the yard and gardens need to take precautions when working with machinery.  Wearing eye protection, such as wraparound safety glasses or goggles, and gloves, are necessary to protect our eyes and hands.  By keeping both the inside and outside of our homes safer, we can avoid those medical visits!
Not only is the month of June National Safety Month, but also National Home Safety Month, as designated by the Home Safety Council.  We know that “a man’s home is his castle,” but how many of us have looked around to see how many hidden dangers are lurking in our castles?
For example:
  • Does your family have an evacuation plan in case of fire?
  • Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher?
  • Do you know how to extinguish a fire on the stove or oven?
  • Have you ever left your house with the washer or dryer running?
  • Do you leave candles unattended?
  • Do you unplug appliances such as toasters, coffee makers, waffle irons, after using them?
  • Do your stairs have ample lighting at top and bottom to prevent falls?
  • Are there hazards in your house that might injure a child?
  • Have you installed electric plug outlets, locks on medicines, and door latches?
  • Are emergency numbers such as fire department, police, etc. posted in easy-to-find places?
  • Do you have an emergency supply kit that will provide water, non-perishable foods, flashlight, medications, safety kit, etc. in case of a natural disaster?
  • Is your water heater set for 120° F or less?
  • Do you check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly?
  • Do you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
  • When you leave for a period of time, do you make arrangements with friends, family, or neighbors to pick up your mail, papers, etc., in order to not tempt burglars?
  • Have you done a check of an elderly friend or parent’s home to make sure there are no fall hazards, and that they have an alert device if they live alone?
  • Do you use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower?
  • Do you constantly supervise children in or near water, such as bathtubs or pools?
These are just a few questions that everyone needs to be sure they can answer.  According to the Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in AmericaÔ reports, there are more than 21 million medical visits and almost 20,000 deaths that result from home injuries each year.  The Home Safety Council’s goal is to educate and empower families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.
We feel sure that we all can look around and see things that we could do to make our homes safer.  Those who work in the yard and gardens need to take precautions when working with machinery.  Wearing eye protection, such as wraparound safety glasses or goggles, and gloves, are necessary to protect our eyes and hands.  By keeping both the inside and outside of our homes safer, we can avoid those medical visits!
First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

ANYTIME. ANYWHERE. WE’LL BE THERE.

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It’s comforting to know that the above statement is true, when it comes to Emergency Medical Services.  May 16th through May 22nd, is National EMS Week, set aside to honor EMS Professionals, as well as afford them the opportunity to publicize safety and connect with the public that they serve.  EMS Week is sponsored by the American College of Emergency Physicians, who depend on the expertise offered by first responders, paramedics, EMT’s, firefighters, and police: those who serve on the “front line” of prehospital treatment.

In many communities this week, these providers will be giving tours of ambulances, and holding several projects that promote safety. From toddlers to senior citizens, it is helpful for potential patients to see just what is involved in being transported by ambulance.  Many cities and communities will be featuring those who furnish emergency services by explaining about their equipment and vehicles such as ambulances, firetrucks, and medical helicopters.

May 19th is set aside as EMS Day for Children, focusing on safety and preventing injury.  Because children react differently to illness and injury, and have a different set of emotional and physical needs, activities planned exclusively for them is very important.  What child wouldn’t enjoy getting to see an ambulance, fire truck, or police car up-close?

Anytime, anywhere, they are there!  At sporting events, you will see an EMS staff standing by, just in case of an injury.  They are present at schools and businesses, teaching CPR classes.  They’re even on a Facebook Page (National E.M.S.) and Twitter, where they share stories and recognize heroes.

EMS teams consist of EMT’s, those who have been certified in Basic Life Support (BLS), and Paramedics, (the highest level of prehospital medical training), and who have been trained in Advanced Life Support (ALS).  When you call with a medical emergency, it is comforting to know that they will come to your door.  People who live in rural areas depend on their rapid response.  It eases our minds to know that they will transfer our loved one to a different facility, whether it is due to a critical care need, a rehab center, or nursing home if necessary.

In times of tragedy, you will always see these unsung heroes doing all they can to save lives. Whether it’s natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or accidents – the one thing we can count on is they are there…anytime, anywhere!

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Hearing Protection, Protective Clothing, Respiratory Safety

HOW TO PREVENT WORKPLACE INJURIES

April is designated as Injury Prevention Month.  However, every month should carry the same theme.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS), in 2008, 5,071 Americans lost their lives as a result of workplace accidents.  This was down from 5,657 in 2007, but only because of the slowing economy.  About 3.6 million Americans suffer serious work-related injuries annually.

Because of the recent devastating coal mine explosion in West Virginia, we are reminded of how dangerous this industry is.  The BLS states that these employees are more likely to be hurt, suffer illness, or be killed than workers in private industries.  Coal mining companies should ensure the safety of their workers through many means, such as proper ventilation, firefighting equipment, air monitor systems, safe places they can escape to, etc.  It is suspected that many violations will be discovered once a Federal investigation is complete, as that particular mine had been issued over 100 citations, just this year.

Every company owes it to each and every employee to be assured that their safety is the Number One Priority.  Next, each employee should do all they can to ensure their safety and that of their fellow workers.  Here are some suggestions for workers’ security:

  • Heavy machinery/equipment operators know how their machines perform better than anyone, so their supervisors should work with them daily to ensure the machinery is checked often, and running safely at all times.
  • Workers should have an active role in company safety programs, by submitting safety suggestions, serving on safety committees, and participating in safety training.
  • Slippery floors, loose carpet, or other hazardous conditions should be reported to supervisors and taken care of as soon as possible.
  • First Aid training is a must.  There should be first aid kits in designated work areas, along with employees who know how to administer basic first aid in case of an accident.
  • Eyewash stations should be available and kept in clean, working condition.
  • Wearing the proper personal protective equipment as required is extremely important.  PPE is designed to protect specific parts of the body that are exposed to hazards.  It should fit properly and be worn at all times while working.  Employees should know how to care for their PPE and ask for its replacement when needed.
  • Companies should warn employees against improper behavior, such as horseplay.  Persons who like to play pranks on their co-workers may be endangering them.  Work environments should be pleasant, but not to the degree of being reckless.
  • Lifting objects that are too heavy is another source of injury.  If this is the case, lifting aids should be used in order to prevent back injury.

It’s hard to find many types of work that don’t carry a chance of injury.  From Anthropologists  to Zoo Keeper, all occupations present some sort of danger.  The best lesson for each individual is to be aware of the risks involved in their occupation and stay alert in order to remain safe each day.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

RAINY DAY DRIVING TIPS

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According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are annually more than 450,000 injuries caused by crashes in adverse weather conditions, especially on slick pavements.  Two key factors to be considered in order to avoid an accident while driving on rain-soaked highways or streets, are speed and visibility.

Most driving experts agree that slowing down is one of the most important things drivers can do when driving in the rain.  It is recommended that when driving over 35 mph, your speed should be reduced by 5 mph for every posted speed limit.  (In other words, if the posted speed limit is 50, you would slow down to 45).  The other thing to remember is to keep your headlights on – that not only helps you see, but helps you be seen by other drivers.

Please consider these tips for safe driving in the rain:

  • Don’t follow the car in front of you too closely because your ability to slow down will be hindered by the wet road.
  • Oily deposits at intersections can be very hazardous when mixed with rain, causing a chance for skidding.
  • Staying in the same lane is safer than changing lanes frequently.
  • Be sure your tires are in good condition; bald tires will reduce traction, which can result in hydroplaning, if you are traveling too fast.
  • Replace windshield wipers once a year.
  • Be sure to watch for car’s brake lights in front of you.
  • Humidity causes windows to fog up, so use the defroster to keep windows clear.
  • Pedestrians and animals are harder to see during rain, so reducing your speed could help you avoid injury to someone or something else, as well as yourself.
  • Never drive through moving water.  If water comes to the bottom of your car doors, or the bottom one-third of your tires, do not try to go through it.  Attempting that may cause you to be washed off the road.  Water can also cause serious damage to the electrical system of the car.
  • Use a light touch when steering and braking.
  • Driving slowly and carefully can help you keep from skidding.

A good idea for those who drive in rain, snow, or other adverse conditions is to keep a “care package” in the car.  Take blankets, snacks, water, ice scraper, flashlight, and a First Aid Kit with you at all times, just in case.

There’s a theory going around that wearing sunglasses when driving in the rain increases your visibility.  Personally, I haven’t tried it, but guess it wouldn’t hurt to try.  We checked this out on Snopes.com, and it’s still being researched.

Please drive with care in rainy or sunny weather.  Let’s leaving the “spinning out” to the winning NASCAR drivers!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

STAY SAFE IN THE SNOW AND ICE

Most of the United States has been hit with extreme cold weather so far this winter, and it looks like it’s not ready to let up yet.  Even in the far south, there’s been the danger of crops freezing.  We southerners aren’t as accustomed to contending with snow and ice as those who live in the north.  Driving on ice is a very dangerous “sport”, especially for persons who aren’t used to it!

Whether you have to get outdoors to go to work, the store, or want to continue some form of exercise regardless of the cold, it is important to take it a little slower than normal and be careful when walking in snow or ice.  There are devices that will help you keep from slipping.  They have a flat sole that attaches to shoes with Velcro, and have metal studs on the bottom, which help grip.  Easy to put on and off, they should not be used once you get inside, because they could make the floor slippery, as well as damaging it.

Here are some ideas from our friends at FEMA:

  • First, if you can, stay indoors as much as possible when weather causes dangerous conditions.
  • Dress warmly, especially paying close attention to feet and hands. Select warm gloves.
  • Wear shoes/boots that provide good traction.  Rubber and neoprene soles are better than those with leather or plastic soles.
  • Use pathways that have been cleared.
  • Put out salt or sand on your sidewalks before you try walking on them.
  • Don’t walk with your hands in your pockets, as you lose the ability to balance with your arms.  This also prevents catching yourself if you slip.
  • Heavy or bulky items can make you lose your balance; carry only necessary items.
  • If possible, use handrails.
  • At your workplace, pay attention to “ice alert” signs, to warn you of icy conditions.
  • While walking on ice, curl toes under and walk slowly.
  • If you must shovel snow, be sure you do not have any underlying health issues, as strenuous activity in extreme conditions can cause heart attack.

As with anything else at work or home, use common sense.  Most of us have to get to our jobs.  Check your local media for weather information and leave home a little earlier if the roads are going to be slick.  Maintenance workers get out very early in the mornings during winter to prepare the roads for traffic in bad conditions.  Drive and walk with care!