Category Archives: General Safety Issues

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

LIGHTNING!!!

One of the most fascinating things a thunderstorm contains is lightning.  One never knows when it is going to happen; this brilliant illumination that dances among the clouds.  Those bolts of lightning cause an average 80 deaths and 300 injuries in the United States every year.

Just recently, a young pregnant woman was hit by lightning as she exited her car during a thunderstorm to run into a house.  She remains in the hospital, but doctors were unable to save her unborn child.

Weather warning devices such as NOAA weather radio furnish information to make the public aware of approaching thunderstorms.  The best possible advice is: If you hear thunder, it is time to take precautions.

Places you don’t want to be if this threat occurs:

  • Open spaces, such as ball parks, golf courses
  • On the water: wading, in a boat, swimming, etc.
  • Outside, period
  • In the shower or running water
  • Talking on a corded telephone
  • In a group of people

Do you know:

  • Lightning can travel sideways, up to ten miles?
  • Lightning can strike someone swimming or scuba diving in water and travel a great distance away from the point of contact?
  • That you are safe in a car, as long as you have the windows up and do not touch any metal?  Contrary to theory, rubber tires do not offer protection from lightning.  The car’s metal conducts the charge to the ground.
  • Lightning hits the tallest point?  Therefore, if you are outside, crouch as low as possible, and touch as little of the ground as necessary.
  • Ten per cent of lightning occurs without visible clouds?  Even if the sky is blue, you need to take cover when you hear thunder.
  • If the time delay is 30 seconds or less between lightning and thunder, you need to seek shelter immediately?

If someone is struck by lightning:

  • Call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance
  • Give First Aid
  • Check for burns.
  • You are not at risk to touch someone who has been hit by lightning; the victim does not carry electric charge that can shock you.

Lightning can cause broken bones, damage to the nervous system, loss of hearing or eyesight.  The next time clouds gather, and thunder starts to rumble, play it safe, and stay inside!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

I’M LEAVING ON A JET PLANE….

But before I go, I am going to pack some flat fold N95 face masks, hand sanitizer, and some other goodies to try to be well when I get to my destination.  Airlines have taken notice of the threat of H1N1 virus and stocked up on disposable medical gloves, alcohol wipes and face masks, as well as more frequent cleanings of surfaces in an effort to keep germs from spreading.  Katherine Andrus, assistant general counsel for Air Transportation Association says air on planes is probably cleaner than in most enclosed spaces, as air systems are designed to minimize the risk of germs spreading.  Air flows across rows of seats instead of front to back, and is constantly changed with combinations of fresh air and circulated air going through several filters.

Dr. Tim Johnson, ABC News chief medical editor offers these five tips for persons traveling by plane:

1.    If a person next to you is coughing or sneezing, ask to switch seats, if possible.

2.    Take a face mask.

3.    Use alcohol-based sanitizer often, and antibacterial wipes on surfaces.

4.    Bring your own pillow and blanket.

5.    Bring your water and stay hydrated.

Be alert to people who may be sick, and keep your distance.  If you are sick, stay home.

Which brings us to another topic:  why not be ready for this or the regular flu bug, just in case?  If you get sick, you don’t need (or won’t feel like) a shopping trip for things you will need to fight it.  Also, you won’t be exposing others to your germs.  Here’s some suggestions for you to stock up on, just in case:

  • Cough medicine, in case what you already have is out of date.
  • Gatorade, or other drinks to replace electrolytes.
  • Fever reducer, such as ibuprophen, aspirin or acetaminophen
  • Soup
  • Other non-caffeine drinks for hydration
  • If you have children, be sure their medicines are not out of date

Whether you are traveling, working out in the public, or staying at home, we hope this winter will bring good health to you and yours.  Just pay closer attention this time, as there’s a new bug lurking, and until the vaccine is ready, do all you can to stay well.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

ARE YOU GOING THE RIGHT WAY?

More and more deadly crashes are happening on our highways, especially freeways, as the result of wrong-way collisions.  On the Dallas North Tollway, (a 33-mile expressway), there have been five wrong way crashes this year, some of them deadly.  In Fort Worth, there were two wrong-way crashes in two days.  These stories and more are repeated in every state.

There are many pieces of the puzzle that need to be shaped differently in order for them to fit.

It seems the main cause of these accidents is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Many of the accidents that result in death happen in the early morning hours, after bars close.  Other reasons are people that are unfamiliar with the highways and become lost.  Theories are that some distraught drivers were on a suicide mission and in their moment of desire to end it all, may have taken the lives of innocent persons as well.  Other drivers have made U-turns in the road, only to deliberately invite disaster.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has many options to try at various locations, some of which include:

  • Modify lighting
  • Install high-intensity reflective sheeting
  • Add more signs
  • Paint more wrong way pavement arrows
  • Put up larger “DO NOT ENTER” signs
  • Mount larger and highly reflective signs that would help

elderly or confused drivers

Installing red pavement lights that are activated by wrong way drivers is one idea.  There are other suggestions being considered to give drivers a second chance to realize that they are going the wrong way before entering the freeway.   Certain automakers are working to develop information technology through GPS systems that will warn drivers of the location and direction of a vehicle that is in their path.

Highway officials are asking M.A.D.D. (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) to get involved in their efforts for more sobriety checkpoints.  M.A.D.D. also suggests ignition interlocks be placed on cars of convicted D.U.I. drivers.   Most states have laws that prohibit restaurants and bars from serving too many drinks, but many times this has not worked.  How many times have accidents been caused by someone who has been convicted of several D.U.I. violations?

Driving an automobile is a huge responsibility; one that requires constant attention at all times.  If you are planning to drive in an area that is unfamiliar to you, (especially heavy traffic), check maps and get other information so you will be prepared.  It even pays to stop and ask someone, rather than drive for miles and possibly take the wrong turn.  If you spot someone that is approaching a one-way lane going the wrong way, get involved! Get their attention, and call 9-1-1.  Here’s our advice:  PAY ATTENTION and DRIVE SAFELY!

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

CRIME ON CAMPUS

After hearing the recent news of the arrest of an animal service technician who worked in a laboratory at Yale University for the asphyxiation death of a young woman who was part of the University medical research team, we all wonder if anything could have been done to prevent this horrible crime?

New Haven Police Chief James Lewis classified this crime as workplace violence: not urban, university, or domestic crime, but workplace violence.  According to ABC News, Yale University President, Richard Leven said the accused has worked there since 2004, and his work history did not indicate that his involvement in a crime might be possible.  President Levin went on to say that this is more about the “dark side of the human soul than the extent of security measures”.

Upon reading the statement Chief Lewis made, I reviewed our article, “Violence in the Workplace”, which talks about many of the causes and solutions that could possibly reduce situations that arise in our places of work.  Security cameras play an important part in    It seems that we have come to the place where security cameras should be placed in every work area, especially those that may be secluded, and where persons work alone at times.

Here are five key components recommended by OSHA that can benefit employers and employees alike:

  • Administrative commitment and employee (student) involvement
  • Worksite analysis
  • Hazard prevention and control
  • Safety and health training
  • Evaluation

No single strategy solution that will work for all types of businesses and places of education, but potential risks of workplace violence should be identified and corrective measures implemented.  Colleges and universities should investigate threatening situations reported by students, regardless of how trivial they may seem.  Students should be encouraged to be observant and cautious as they go about their everyday activities.

Sources:
AP
ABC News
OSHA

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

SUPERMARKET SHOPPING SAFETY TIPS

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Most shoppers know how important it is to purchase food that is safe for their family.

As money is tight these days, saving every cent matters.  But when it comes to ensuring the health of your loved ones, keep these tips in mind:

  • Start your shopping with nonperishable items first and then dairy, frozen foods, meat and poultry toward the end of your shopping trip.
  • Beware of bargains: cans that are dented or have the tops swollen could be contaminated with bacteria.
  • Sometimes items that are out of date are still on the shelves. Look toward the back of the shelf for ones with more current dates.  Be sure to check labels.
  • Don’t buy partially thawed frozen-food packages, as they could be an invitation for bacteria.
  • Pre-packaged salads are very convenient; however, they have been known to cause foodborne-illnesses.  Wash all leafy greens thoroughly and use within a few days.
  • Notice if the cases containing milk and meats are as cold as they should be (35-40°).  If the cases are crowded, the temperature may not be low enough.
  • If you live out of town, be sure to take along an ice chest in order to keep the perishable foods cold until you get home.
  • Choose supermarkets that are clean.
  • Don’t place meats or dairy products on the door shelves, as the inside of the fridge is colder than the door.
  • All produce should be washed thoroughly.
  • If you buy prepared salads from a deli, be sure you keep them cold enough until you are ready to serve them.

Once you are home from your grocery shopping and put everything away, wash your hands thoroughly before you begin dividing up meats, and other fresh foods.  Use antibacterial wipes or other antibacterial cleansers on the cutting board, cabinet, or wherever food has been.  It pays to keep things as germ-free as possible, especially in the kitchen.

Source: Health.com

General Safety Issues

DELIVERING THE MESSAGE

The British have discovered a way to really wake us up.  Last night, I saw some video clips they have produced of staged accidents involving drivers who were texting on their cell phones while driving.  Maybe you saw them on YouTube.  Extremely graphic, they depict several different scenarios of wrecks and the persons involved, and the outcomes are horrible.

As I was reviewing information on the internet on this subject today, I noticed an advertisement on the same page for a cell phone that you can access just about anything you want to see – “one click to Facebook”!

Cell phones are probably one of the greatest inventions of our time and can be useful in times of emergencies.  Frankly, I don’t know how we ever got along without them.  Cell phones are such a convenience; we can stay in touch with our loved ones or friends in a matter of seconds, coordinate meetings, make appointments, and walk around the house, all at the same time!  You’ll notice I didn’t mention “drive a car” all at the same time.  But, that’s what we do.  I saw a woman taking her little one to school this morning, talking on her cell phone the whole time.  Do you wonder if that call could have waited?  (Beginning September 1st in Texas, state law prohibits the use of cell phones in school zones.  Fines of up to $200 can be imposed.  The law does allow hands-free use of cell phones or emergency use only.)

The simple task of making a call while driving is enough of a diversion.  It’s not the fault of the cell phone if there is an accident while driving.  It’s the fault of the person operating the car and the phone at the same time.  When you have to look down to read a message someone is sending you, you are taking a chance on hurting yourself, your passengers, or the other guy meeting you. (And what if he’s texting, what are your chances, then?)

Statistics have shown that texting and driving is just about dead even with drinking and driving.  Do you think you have it under control, or that it won’t hurt anyone?  THINK AGAIN.  And if you get a chance to see how the Brits deliver the message, you will change your mind.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

WARNINGS FOR HUNTERS!

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As fall approaches, so does hunting season!  Sportsmen and sportswomen who enjoy hunting, camping, hiking or other activities need to be prepared for disease-causing bacteria that may be waiting for them.  According to Guy Moore, a wildlife biologist with Texas Department of State Health Services, “Outdoor activities bring a greater risk of exposure to diseases transmitted by fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other animals.”

Some of these diseases and their carriers are:

  • Brucellosis, a bacterial disease, which can be carried by wild hogs.
  • Anthrax, a bacterium that can cause a severe, life-threatening disease in both animals and humans, sometimes carried by deer.
  • Plague, which is sometimes transmitted by squirrels, rats, prairie dogs, fleas, and mice.
  • Hantivirus infection to people can sometimes be spread from the excretions from mice. These may be spread in the air on dust particles.
  • Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia can be caused by bites from infected ticks.
  • West Nile Virus and encephalitis are diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
  • Rabies can be carried by all warm-blooded animals- such as skunks, bats, coyotes, and foxes.

If you are still determined to go out and face these critters, we encourage you to do so.  Most of these illnesses are rare, with the exception of West Nile.  Just keep these reminders handy:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after handling game.
  • Use insect repellents containing DEET.
  • Wear protective clothing, and light colored clothes so you can see ticks on your clothes.
  • Stay away from overgrown brush and tall grass if possible.
  • Do not touch antlers, bones, hides or other parts of dead animals.

Texas DSHS

General Safety Issues

LET’S KNOCK OUT THE SUPERBUGS!

With all the talk about the H1N1 virus, there are some other bugs out there, and we’re not talking about big cockroaches!  These bugs can be anywhere: at your home, grocery store, the gym, and your place of work.  Because they have developed a resistance to antibiotics, more and more persons are becoming infected with various germs that the antibiotics once knocked out with ease.  Helen W. Boucher, M.D., a specialist in the division of infectious diseases at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, says “drug resistant bacteria have developed mainly because of our overuse and misuse of antibiotics, leading us to a crisis point.” She also said that they are seeing bugs today that resist all antibiotics.

Here are a few supergerms that you may not be aware of, and what to do:

  • Strains of flu: bird flu, swine flu, and seasonal flu.  Get flu vaccines when available, and practice good hygiene, especially washing your hands very often with soap and water.  Stay away from crowds when you don’t feel well.
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).  There has been much more said about staph infections in the last few years.  Staph can be a deadly infection.  Athletes need to be careful not to share towels or equipment.  In a gym, don’t hesitate to wipe down equipment you plan to use with an antibacterial wipe.  Daycare centers and schools may harbor this bug, so teach kids to wash, wash their hands!  Any public place you visit, especially hospitals, we caution you to be extra vigilant about what you touch.  Most of us carry staph on our skin, without ever developing a problem.  Staph causes skin and soft-tissue abcesses.  Cover the places and seek medical attention to ensure this infection doesn’t get into your system.
  • Clostiridium difficile (C.diff.) This is one that most people don’t know anything about, unless they have worked in a hospital or had a family member that has experienced it.  C.diff. is a very aggressive killer of hospitalized patients.  Persons who have had a single dose of antibiotics for a sinus or urinary tract infection may come down with this bug, which is a toxic bacteria in the intestines.  Bleach is one of the best things to wipe surfaces in order to kill this bug.  Hospitals and nursing homes are facilities where this germ thrives.  Wash your hands often and don’t touch anything the patient has touched.

One way to help keep your body from becoming antibiotic resistant, is to not take them unless you absolutely have to.  Ask your doctor for the shortest course of antibiotics.  Be proactive: if you have to take an antibiotic, take a probiotic at the same time to build up the healthy bacteria in your body. Wash your hands the right way.  And if you or someone you know is hospitalized, don’t be shy about asking the caregiver to wash their hands, as if their hands are not clean before they put on gloves, the gloves will be contaminated, as well.

Now that we’ve warned you about some of the “little monsters” lurking out there, we hope you have a great day, and a “germ-free” one!

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products, Respiratory Safety, Uncategorized, Weather Protection

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

The United States Department of Homeland Security’s READY campaign, along with AD Council, and Citizen Corps, announced their sixth annual National Preparedness Month on September 1st.  Their purpose is to encourage Americans to be prepared for emergencies in their communities, homes, and businesses.  Americans must understand what being ready really means.  This month, this National Public Service advertising campaign will promote individual emergency preparedness to respond to emergencies including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

Others who actively participate in this endeavor are the Better Business Bureau, Boy Scouts of America, National Volunteer Fire Council, Home Depot, ASPCA, and the American Red Cross.

This is a true story, from my little home town:
Shortly after 9-11, one of the schools got a suspicious package in the mail. The postmark showed it was from a foreign country, and seemed to have a powdery material seeping out of it, so the secretary immediately reported it to the proper authorities.  All types of activities proceeded, as planned, with a HazMat team coming from 90 miles away, emergency responders setting up areas to wash down anyone who was possibly contaminated, hospital locked down, etc.  As it turned out, it contained some educational tapes and the packing material had become crushed in the process of being mailed.  She was very embarrassed, but she did the right thing, as the materials had not been ordered, and at that particular time, we were all nervous about the unexpected.  What we found out was, though, we were really not prepared.  Many things were done that should have been done, but not necessarily in the correct order.

In earlier articles we have presented, Being Prepared, and Dog Rescuers in Times of Disaster, we have listed tips on basic safety kits that families should have, as well as ideas for those who rescue animals in emergency situations, so you may want to review them.

It would take time to gather up all the things needed to for an emergency disaster kit, but we want to point out many basic necessities:

  • Water: 1 gallon per day, per person, for up to 3 days
  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Can opener
  • Battery powered NOAA weather radio, and extra batteries
  • Flashlight
  • First Aid Kit
  • Blankets
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust Masks
  • Tools
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties
  • Prescription medications
  • Pet food, water
  • Paper products, towels, plates, etc.
  • Cell phone

Natonal Preparedness Month membership is open to the public and private sector organizations.  For information, go to www.ready.gov.  Businesses, families, school administrators, and individuals should all get involved and spread the word that we must be better prepared.

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

FARM SAFETY MONTH

September is Farm Safety Month, so what better time than to review just one of the things that our farmers and ranchers have to worry about: pests!  In their fight against pests, they must use pesticides, running the risk of being exposed to harmful chemicals.

Pesticides help our agriculture industry through the EPA’s (Environmental Protection Agency) Integrated Pest Management system.  In agricultural settings, their approach is to:
(1)    Use bio-pesticides, which are less risky.
(2)    Decide when the pest is an economic threat.
(3)    Determine what type of pesticide is needed.
(4)    Try rotating crops.
(5)    Use broadcast spraying of a non-specific pesticide as a last resort.

New EPA safety requirements are meant to protect agricultural workers against pesticides used in crop fields.  Since soil fumigants are restricted-use pesticides, only specially trained personnel can apply and oversee these types of operations, which involves injecting pesticides into the soil to create a gas that kills several types of soil-borne pests in the fields.  This type of pesticide can cause health problems ranging from eye or respiratory irritation to more severe and irreversible effects.

All workers on farms need to use caution when applying pesticides:

  • Read labels on pesticide containers.
  • Handle pesticides in well-ventilated areas, and on calm days.
  • Never store pesticides in food or drink containers.
  • Don’t mix pesticides or drain sprayer near pond, stream, or well.
  • Obey restrictions at entries and watch for warning signs.
  • Wear appropriate PPE, i.e., goggles/wrap-around safety glasses, gloves, respirators, etc.

Pest control is just one of the many problems that our agriculture industry copes with as they produce the nation’s food.  Keeping farm workers safe from the effects of pesticides is foremost.

USDA
EPA