Category Archives: Weather Protection

Eye Protection, Head Protection, Weather Protection

ANNUAL TIPS ON PROTECTING WORKERS FROM HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

 Today, Friday, June 21, is the official first day of summer!  Those of us who live in southern parts of the United States are already aware of the fact.  This spring season has been an unusual one, with parts of the Northeastern U.S. experiencing late snows and flooding.  Tornado Alley has expanded from parts of Texas and Oklahoma, throughout the central states.  And to add more misery: it’s now hurricane season!

OSHA is partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on weather service alerts to incorporate worker safety precautions when heat alerts are issued across the United States.  NOAA is including pertinent worker safety information on its Heat Watch Web page.  Because conditions are extremely hot with high humidity this season, companies would be wise to follow all advisories to keep their employees as safe as possible during this trying time.  WATER – REST – SHADE: The work can’t get done without them.  For workers that aren’t used to working outdoors, time should be given to gradually acclimate them to heat exposure.

How much water should we drink?  Water is the body’s principle chemical component and makes up about 60 per cent of your body weight.  Your entire body’s system depends on water.  Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions.  You can become tired and suffer energy loss with even mild dehydration. 

The Mayo Clinic staff suggests that your water needs depend on many factors, such as your health, how active you are, and where you live.  Because water is essential to good health, needs vary by individual.  If you use thirst as a guide for when to drink, by the time you are thirsty, you may already be slightly dehydrated.  As you get older, your body is less able to sense dehydration and send your brain signals of thirst.  Here are some tips to ward off dehydration, and make sure your body has the fluids it needs:

  • Drink a glass of water with each meal and between each meal;
  • Hydrate before, during and after exercise;
  • Substitute sparkling water for alcoholic drinks at social events. 

We’ve all heard to consume six to eight glasses of water per day; however, this eight-glass formula doesn’t fit everyone.  The more active a person, the more they will need to replace fluids.  Larger people, pregnant and nursing women, and those who take dehydrating medications also will likely need to add more water to their diet.  For those who are not as active, drinking six to eight glasses daily could lead to over-hydration. 

Many outside workers are exposed to temperatures that are very hot, which causes them to sweat more.  These folks will need to increase their water intake.  Oral hydration solutions, such as Gatorade, Powerade or CeraLyte may help those who are in situations that cause them to sweat heavily.  Some experts recommend that bodies only need a minimal amount to keep the body in balance and give that energy kick.  Sometimes simply taking sips or swishing a sports drink will do the trick. 

At home, select foods that keep you hydrated and healthy.  Strawberries, cantaloupes, watermelon, and peaches are packed full of water and potassium, which is the electrolyte shed when your body sweats.  This is a great way to balance fluids that your body needs, and regulate your heartbeat and circulation.  Plus – they are delicious! 

In addition to allowing for rest and shade for workers, consider the water factor as very important.  Individuals know what their body needs, and they must be diligent about taking the time to stop for a drink of water throughout the day. You can find more information on the OSHA website, as well as NOAA website.  Try to stay cool, take breaks during the day, and stay hydrated!   Stay cool, and stay covered: wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and long sleeves.

Source: OSHA/NOAA

 

 

 

 

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

NOAA PREDICTS HEAVY HURRICANE SEASON – 2013

 

Era of high activity for Atlantic hurricanes continues

In its 2013 Atlantic hurricane season outlook issued today, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting an active or extremely active season this year.

For the six-month hurricane season, which begins June 1, NOAA’s Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook says there is a 70 percent likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 7 to 11 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher).

These ranges are well above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes.
 
“With the devastation of Sandy fresh in our minds, and another active season predicted, everyone at NOAA is committed to providing life-saving forecasts in the face of these storms and ensuring that Americans are prepared and ready ahead of time.” said Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., NOAA acting administrator. “As we saw first-hand with Sandy, it’s important to remember that tropical storm and hurricane impacts are not limited to the coastline. Strong winds, torrential rain, flooding, and tornadoes often threaten inland areas far from where the storm first makes landfall.”

Three climate factors that strongly control Atlantic hurricane activity are expected to come together to produce an active or extremely active 2013 hurricane season. These are:

  • A continuation of the atmospheric climate pattern, which includes a strong west African monsoon, that is responsible for the ongoing era of high activity for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995;
  • Warmer-than-average water temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea; and
  • El Niño is not expected to develop and suppress hurricane formation.

“This year, oceanic and atmospheric conditions in the Atlantic basin are expected to produce more and stronger hurricanes,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “These conditions include weaker wind shear, warmer Atlantic waters and conducive winds patterns coming from Africa.”

NOAA’s seasonal hurricane outlook is not a hurricane landfall forecast; it does not predict how many storms will hit land or where a storm will strike. Forecasts for individual storms and their impacts will be provided throughout the season by NOAA’s National Hurricane Center.

New for this hurricane season are improvements to forecast models, data gathering, and the National Hurricane Center communication procedure for post-tropical cyclones. In July, NOAA plans to bring online a new supercomputer that will run an upgraded Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) model that provides significantly enhanced depiction of storm structure and improved storm intensity forecast guidance.

Also this year, Doppler radar data will be transmitted in real time from NOAA’s Hurricane Hunter aircraft. This will help forecasters better analyze rapidly evolving storm conditions, and these data could further improve the HWRF model forecasts by 10 to 15 percent.

The National Weather Service has also made changes to allow for hurricane warnings to remain in effect, or to be newly issued, for storms like Sandy that have become post-tropical. This flexibility allows forecasters to provide a continuous flow of forecast and warning information for evolving or continuing threats.

“The start of hurricane season is a reminder that our families, businesses and communities need to be ready for the next big storm,” said Joe Nimmich, FEMA associate administrator for Response and Recovery. “Preparedness today can make a big difference down the line, so update your family emergency plan and make sure your emergency kit is stocked. Learn more about how you can prepare for hurricane season at www.ready.gov/hurricanes.”  

This past week,  May 26 – June 1, was National Hurricane Preparedness Week. To help those living in hurricane-prone areas prepare, NOAA offered hurricane preparedness tips, along with video and audio public service announcements in both English and Spanish, featuring NOAA hurricane experts and the FEMA administrator at www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/.

NOAA’s outlook for the Eastern Pacific basin is for a below-normal hurricane season and the Central Pacific basin is also expected to have a below-normal season. NOAA will issue an updated outlook for the Atlantic hurricane season in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season.

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Please pay attention to warnings and stay safe.  This season has already brought killer tornadoes; now we must watch for hurricanes on the coast.

Here are some tips for hurricane/storm preparation from an earlier Blog4Safety post:

  •        Secure your home;
  •        Have a plan that includes your family, elderly, and pets;
  •        Be sure your insurance papers are in order;
  •        You need to have a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water for each individual;
  •        Have a emergency safety kits and flashlight;
  •        Be sure you have all medicines;
  •        Notify next of kin or friends that you may be needing to stay with them until the all-clear;

 Source: NOAA

 
 
Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Weather Protection

THINGS ARE HEATING UP, AND IT’S ONLY MAY!

During the summer months, workers who are exposed to extreme heat should recognize symptoms of heat stress, and how it can be prevented.  The month of May is more than half-gone, and things are heating up already.  May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection Month, and May 25th is Heat Safety Awareness Day.  So we hope you will take heed: 

Things that can lead to heat stress are: inadequate water intake, physical exertion, direct sun, high temperature or humidity, and some medicines.  Workers should stay hydrated and maintain a safe core body temperature, which should never exceed 100°F.  Ingesting fluids on a regular basis also puts less strain on the cardiovascular system. 

Signs of heat disorders are:

  • Heat Exhaustion – This is the result of a combination of dehydration and excessive heat.  Headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, giddiness, and thirst are symptoms.  Workers with heat exhaustion should be given fluids, and encouraged to rest.  Workers can stay hydrated by keeping containers of fluids handy at all times.
  • Heat Cramps – Caused by an electrolyte imbalance caused by sweating and lack of water replenishment.  Workers in hot environments should drink water every 15 to 20 minutes and drink carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids (e.g., sports drinks).
  • Heat Stroke – This is the most serious heat related disorder.  Confusion, irrational behavior, loss of consciousness, lack of sweating (usually), an abnormally high temperature are primary signs of heat stroke, resulting in a medical emergency.  The worker should be doused with cool water and given fluids.  Drinks that contain alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar can cause workers to lose body fluid, and very cold drinks can cause stomach cramps.  Cool fluids are easier to drink and more easily absorbed into the body.
  • Heat Rashes – Most common problem where skin is persistently wetted by sweat.  Creams or ointments should not be used as they keep the skin warm and moist, and may worsen the condition.  Powders may be applied. 

A reminder to workers: be sure to drink fluids before becoming thirsty; if you wait, your body is already dehydrated.  Wear a wide brimmed hat if your work doesn’t require a hardhat, use sunscreen, and wear polarized safety eyewearthat have the proper UV protection.  Be sure to protect your body with a sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rate.  Protect your children from sunburn, because many times skin cancer shows up at a later age, waiting all that time from childhood to adulthood to become a serious problem.  Children’s eyes should also be protected from the UV rays of the sun; it is important that they wear sunglasses , just as their parents do.

Source: OSHA, CDC

General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Weather Protection

ESSENTIAL PROTECTIVE ITEMS FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES (GUEST POST)

Essential Protective Items for Construction Sites

In the construction industry, loud noises, extreme heights and unpredictable hazards are part of the job. You may also have to fight against rain, high winds and other extreme weather to get the job done. In this risky industry, having the right equipment and protective wear can protect you from common jobsite injuries. Following are some of the most important items for construction workers to have. 

Protective clothing

The weather conditions will have a big influence on the clothing you need to wear when working at a construction site. When it’s raining, you want appropriate rainwear, such as waterproof boots, pants and a raincoat with a hood. (When you’re handling tools, you don’t want to be slippery). If you’re working on highway or overnight construction projects, you can find rainwear with reflective strips, so people can see you in the darkness.

When the weather turns cold you will need warm hats, gloves and heavy socks to keep your extremities warm. Other protective clothing includes steel-toe boots, which protect your feet from falling objects, and polarized sunglasses that reduce glare.

Gear

Jackhammers, drills and other machinery can damage hearing permanently, so ear protection on the job is extremely important. In fact, the average 25-year-old carpenter has the hearing ability similar to a 50-year-old worker who doesn’t work in construction. Wear ear plugs or other ear protection devices to reduce the risk of hearing loss. And remind your coworkers to do the same.

Safety Hardhats are important when working in areas where construction activity is occurring above your head. The hard hat minimizes the risk of head injury, if an item falls from above. To prevent falling, rope ties, belts or harnesses are required by law when you’re working above a particular height. And you can protect your eyes from flying debris by wearing goggles or other protective face gear.

Quality tools

A construction worker depends on having reliable, quality tools. If your tools aren’t properly maintained or are in disrepair, that could increase your risk of accident or injury. Regularly inspect your tools to make sure they’re in good working order.

Radio

A two-way radio is important to have on the job, so you can communicate with others on the site and quickly get answers to questions. The two-way radio is also a great communication tool when there is an emergency and you need assistance immediately.

Having the right tools before heading out for the job site will help you do the job. It can be nearly impossible to successfully and productively do your job when you do not have the right equipment. Make a list of tools you need for each upcoming job and spend some time packing the items and ensuring each one works properly. While your employer is legally required to provide certain equipment, you should always double check to make sure it fits you well, is in good repair – and most importantly, you must remember to use it. That hard hat won’t do you any good if you forget to wear it.

Sent by Cassandra Lynne

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Head Protection, High Visibility Safety, Weather Protection

WORKING BY THE WATER: FIVE RIGHTS YOU MAY NOT KNOW YOU HAVE (GUEST POST)

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Working By The Water: 5 Rights You May Not Know You Have

Working on the water can be fun, adventurous and lucrative, but it can also be dangerous. As a result, the Merchant Marine Act, also known as the Jones Act, was established in 1920 to protect seamen from negligent and dangerous practices. Today, the Act still stands to guarantee rights for those who work in maritime industries. The following are five things that maritime workers need to be aware of:
1. Defining Seamen

To be covered under the rights offered by the Jones Act, an individual must meet certain criteria, including being considered a seaman. Such individuals must work maritime positions in which they are working on a dock, an offshore oil rig, or a seaworthy vessel. Employers who employ such individuals must be considered to work within the maritime industry, and each employee who qualifies must meet certain standards to be considered under the Jones Act, including the standard that each qualifying worker be working aboard a vessel or in a position that directly impacts vessels. This definition may change depending upon the individual’s involvement with the operation of a vessel.

2. Defective Equipment

In cases where a vessel, a vessel’s equipment, or safety precautions are not considered to be seaworthy, an injured seaman may be able to sue with the help of Jones Act attorneys. Essentially, each seaman is afforded the right to safe operation within the limits of the task or tasks at hand, and if a maritime employer fails to provide such safe operations and precautions, a seaman may have a legitimate reason to sue.

3. Maintenance and Cure

The Jones Act also provides provisions for seamen to be offered maintenance and cure, meaning food, shelter, and medical reimbursement. If an accident occurs aboard a vessel that falls under the Jones Act, a worker may sue if he or she is not provided adequate food, shelter, and medical cost reimbursement should an accident occur.

4. Death

If a seamen dies during the course of his or her duties, the Jones Act also provides for death benefits to be paid to the deceased seaman’s family or willed individual or individuals.

5. History

If you’re a maritime employee or employer who qualifies under the Jones Act, it’s also important for you to be able to prove a history of good or bad behavior. As an employer, if it can be proven in court that you have a history of negligent behavior that may result in injuries or death, you may want to think about revising your practices. As an employee, you may also need to prove a history of negligent and illegal behavior in order for your case to proceed and be successful.

Finally, if you or a loved one have been the victim of a qualifying maritime accident that has resulted in an injury or death, it’s important for you to know that a maritime lawyer can help. While personal injury attorneys may seem like a good idea to seek compensation, few have the knowledge and experience of a maritime lawyer when facing such circumstances. A maritime lawyer will have intimate knowledge regarding the Jones Act and other laws that govern work on the water, and by partnering with such professionals, you’ll often stand a better chance of gaining the compensation that is deserved.


Saam Banai is a freelance writer and editor and certified sailor.  If you work on a seaworthy vessel, dock, or offshore oil rig and are injured on the job, contact one of the Jones Act attorneys from the firm Doyle Raizner LLP. Admiralty and maritime law can be extremely difficult to understand, because it is governed by a variety of federal statutes. That’s why it’s important to employ the services of an experienced attorney that can properly evaluate your maritime injury claim.
 
Thanks, Sam, for this maritime information.  You’ll also notice these workers are required to wear the same Industrial Safety Supplies as those who work on land.  Pat
General Safety Issues, Head Protection, Protective Clothing, Weather Protection

FIVE METHODS TO KEEPING YOURSELF WARM ON THE JOB (GUEST POST)

While some types of construction taper off during the winter, other projects continue onward, despite cold weather and your wishes that you could just stay inside. Keeping warm on the job isn’t just about being comfortable, but also about staying safe. You probably know extreme cold can lead to frostbite, but even being slightly cold for extended periods of time can make you more susceptible to coming down with the flu. Even if you get to ride around in an excavator with a radio playing 80s dance floor jams, you should still take special care to keep all that burning passion close to your body and not steaming out into the environment. This winter, use five simple methods to keep yourself warm on the job at the construction site.

1. Dress in layers, which helps trap warm air so you retain more heat. You can remove just one thin layer if you’re starting to feel warm, rather than having an all-or-nothing dilemma if you’re not wearing enough clothing. Keep your clothing dry by wearing a bottom layer that wicks moisture away from your skin and a waterproof top layer. Give priority to materials like wool and synthetic fabrics instead of cotton, which can feel very cold if it’s wet.

2. Choose clothing that allows you to maintain the full range of motion needed for your job. You want your sleeves to still cover your wrists, even when you’re extending your arms to reach something. You may need a slightly longer coat, as well, to ensure there isn’t a gap between your coat and your pants when you’re reaching above yourself. When in doubt, keep some hand warmers on deck.

3. Wear a hat or liner under your hard hat. If you can, choose one that covers the back of your neck as well as going over your head. Yes, this means you may need a slightly larger hard hat during the winter, but the change will be well worth it. Even though losing a great percentage of your body heat through your head is a myth, a layer of insulation will make a huge difference.

4. Get a good pair of felt-lined leather work boots. Because leather is breathable, sweat from your feet will evaporate instead of keeping your socks wet and making your feet feel cold. When you choose socks, stick to wool and similar materials and make sure they won’t make your work boots too tight. If your boots are too snug, socks won’t insulate as well because they will be compressed, your circulation may be impaired and you won’t be able to move your toes around to keep them warm.

5. Bring a thermos of hot water (consider flavoring it with honey and/or lemon), tea or coffee to drink when you’re on breaks during the day. Being able to take a few sips of something warm can help you feel warm from the inside out. Be careful when drinking diuretics like tea and coffee; drink water so you stay hydrated.

You may have to make a fairly significant investment in your winter wardrobe, especially if this is your first winter working in construction. Keep in mind that your investment will pay off through better health during the winter. This means fewer doctor’s bills and more income because you’re able to actually work all winter.

Cassandra Lynne is an admin for Good Morning Bloggers. Good Morning Bloggers is a free service that connects blog owners with writers and vice versa. Besides from blogging, Cassandra is a travel enthusiast, art fanatic and animal adorer. Follow her on Twitter @goodmorningblog.

 

 

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.

Fall Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Home Safety Products, Weather Protection

AVOID WINTER-RELATED INJURIES AT HOME THIS SEASON (GUEST POST)

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By Carrie Van Brunt-Wiley

Each season brings its own unique safety concerns for families. In the spring, allergies are rampant and unexpected rain showers can often make driving a challenge. In the fall, we worry about flu season and slipping on leaves in walkways and sidewalks. During the summer, there are heat waves and perilous slip ‘n slide injuries. The winter season often brings the widest variety of safety concerns, from cold weather and slippery road conditions to hazardous holiday decorations. Here are a few tips to help you keep your family safe this winter:

Cover up

If you work outside, like to play in the snow or otherwise spend a lot of time outside in the cold, cover up. Your extremities are the first to lose circulation in cold weather, so be sure to wear gloves and warm socks. Prevent the majority of your body heat from leaving your through the top of your head with a winter hat, and be sure to wear proper footwear. If you’re working in heavy snow, boots or other shoes with good traction are highly recommended to help prevent falls.

Remove ice and snow from walkways and stairs

Slippery surfaces are one of the leading causes of winter-related injuries. If your driveway, walkways and other surfaces you regularly use are buried under snow and ice, don’t try to walk on them until they’re cleared. Children and older guests are especially vulnerable to falls on slippery surfaces, so it’s extremely important to do some preventive maintenance and shovel your snow before any injuries are likely to occur. Keep in mind that many cities that suffer extreme weather require that you keep your sidewalk and driveway clear.

Injuries can also occur during the process of shoveling snow. It’s always a good idea to warm up before you start in order to avoid overexertion. Stretch your arms, back, legs and shoulders. Don’t be afraid to stop to rest for a couple of minutes if you start to feel tired or sore. Finally, take your time. Use a light-weight shovel and push small amounts to the side instead of trying to throw large amounts out of the way.

Use caution when decorating or undecorating

While holiday decorations help add some cheer to the winter season, they also come with their own set of dangerous hazards. Make sure your Christmas lights are plugged into safe sockets that won’t overload your electrical system. Never leave them plugged in while you’re away for an extended period of time, especially if you’ve got loose pets roaming around the home. If you’ve set up a real Christmas tree, make sure you water it often. A dry tree and hot lights are the perfect combination for a not-so-festive holiday fire.

Supervise children outside

When the first snowfall of the season occurs, everyone wants to run outside to build snowmen and snow angels and pelt each other with snowballs. It’s so exciting that it’s easy for a child to forget to put on a jacket, not to mention a cumbersome hat and gloves. As a parent, it’s your job to make sure your children are properly wrapped up for the winter weather. It’s also a good idea to coax them inside every hour or so with some hot chocolate or warm cookies to prevent them from losing too much body heat. It’s also easy to slip and fall on ice when you’re dodging speeding snowballs, and a snowball to the face has the power to knock the wind out of any poor victim. Keep an eye on your kids any time they’re outside in the snow to make sure they’re playing safely.

Following these tips will help you stay safe around the house. It also will help keep others safe when they visit or walk past your home. Then all you’ll have to worry about is the coming of the next allergy season.

This article was contributed by Carrie Van Brunt-Wiley, Editor of the HomeInsurance.com blog. Carrie has been writing insurance news and consumer information for HomeInsurance.com since 2008. She graduated from the University of North Carolina in Wilmington in 2005 with a B.A. in Professional Writing and Journalism.

Another winter tip that you may not know: children need eye protection from bright snow in the winter as well as sun and water in the summer.  Their eyes can be damaged just as easily as an adults’.  Sunglasses provide UV protection all year.  Pat

 

 

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

Cold Weather Disaster Prep (Guest Post)

Ideas to keep you and your family safe this year

By Patricia Shuler

Major storms come every year, and particularly during this season, severe storms cause all kinds of havoc. Keeping your family safe is your number one priority, so it’s important to be informed not only on what severe weather is common to your area and where you might be traveling, but what you can do about it as well. Take a couple of minutes and read this list to ensure you’re ready for whatever might happen this winter season.

1. Know Terminology

You also need to be aware of what specific weather warnings are likely to occur in your area. For example, make sure you know the difference between a Winter Storm Watch and a Winter Storm Warning, and how to prepare appropriately for Wind Chill versus Freezing Rain or Sleet. Once you know what each means, make a plan for each contingency, and be sure your family knows what to do in each case.

2. Winterize Your Home

This is a step that should have been completed during the middle and latter end of the fall months, but it’s not too late to start now. Winterizing allows you to keep your home heated more effectively during severe weather, particularly if there is a power loss and you can only keep the heat you’ve got. Also make sure you’ve insulated your pipes should the weather drop well below freezing, and that you’ve also done a good job at insulating your walls, basement, and attic. You should have your HVAC system inspected by a professional annually, to ensure it’s working at its most efficient, and so to prevent failures that can be expensive and inconvenient at best, and dangerous at worst.

3. Power Outages

Power outages are some of the most common effects of weather disasters around the country, so make sure you’re ready. Keep flashlights and spare batteries where you can find them in the dark. Also, keep a stash of candles, matches, lamps, etc. somewhere easily accessible. The power might be out for days, so invest in portable power solutions to keep phones and other necessary electronics charged.

You might not think of your laptop or smartphone as a survival tool, but they can be invaluable sources of information when the power goes out. Older computers will not run for long, and can actually be damaged by the low output of hand-crank generators; but high-quality ultrabooks or tablet can charge on 20 watts or less, meaning you use less fuel (or elbow grease).

4. Emergency Kits

This is really one of the easiest things you can get ready in case of a weather emergency. FEMA has put together a great list on what to put into your kits. This should include enough water for every member of your family for at least 3 days, blankets, a firstaid kit, canned food and can opener, and other tools. You should also include medicines your family might need, particularly prescriptions you might not be able to fill if a disaster occurs. Most of these things you already have or have access to, so start compiling your emergency kit immediately.

5. Travel Safely

This is the time of year when people are on the road the most, traveling to see family and friends for the holidays, and it comes during the most hazardous weather season. Make sure before you leave you have a good plan in case of severe weather or accidents. If it looks like the weather will be adverse, you really should just not travel. If the weather forecast is good, you should still prepare in case of an emergency. Keep a car emergency kit with you at all times. This includes water and blankets, but also tools, maps, jumper cables and road flares for road-specific hazards. If you’re planning on counting on your GPS, don’t, as bad weather often causes signal loss, so make sure you have appropriate maps for where you’ll be traveling. Get a car charger for your phone as well so you’ll have the ability to keep it charged should you become stranded for an extended period of time. 

Patricia Shuler is a BBGeeks.com staff writer from Oakland, California. She’s an admitted tech-junkie who’s quick to share her honest opinion on all things consumer electronic—including up-to-date news, user reviews, and “no holds barred” opinions on a variety of social media, tech, computer, and mobile accessories topics.