Category Archives: Weather Protection

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

WINDY CONDITIONS CAN BE DANGEROUS

Spring is officially here, and we are already experiencing some windy days, which is normal for this time of the year.  The Western United States is usually affected by winds more than other parts of the country.  Having lived in West Texas for a number of years, we became accustomed to more wind in the Spring, which often resulted in terrible sandstorms, limiting visibility to zero, on very bad days.  (You didn’t want to be wearing contact lens when it was extremely windy!)  Worse, we see images on the news of the conditions that our troops face in the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan, with blinding sandstorms adding to their many other challenges.

Wind is something we all should pay attention to.  For those who work outdoors, it can create risky situations.  Persons who work on scaffolds, or any platform where they are above the ground should take all precautions by wearing the proper PPE, such as goggles to protect their eyes, harnesses, and other means of stabilization.  Another example of windy conditions affecting the workplace are airlines, which often must delay or cancel flights because of high winds.

Windy conditions can adversely affect all vehicles – cars, trucks, R.V.’s, and motorcycles. The best course of action while driving in windy conditions is to slow down.  A strong wind gust can blow a driver or rider off course.  Motorcycle riders need to remember that no matter how strong they think they are, the wind is stronger.  The best thing for all drivers or riders who are fighting high winds is to find a safe place to stop until things calm down.

Those who live in mobile/manufactured homes may want to have a licensed installer inspect to ensure it is safely anchored to the ground, that it has the right number of ground anchors, and to replace any damaged or corroded ones.  If winds reach a high speed, these types of homes may be susceptible to damage.

With the beginning of more outdoor activities that warm weather brings, everyone should be cautious.  When grilling, keep a fire extinguisher or water hose handy just in case the wind starts blowing.  If there is a burn ban in the area you live, by all means, observe the ban.  Too many fires have been started by carelessness, as Californians can confirm.  Winds have carried fire across thousands of acres of beautiful forests.  Boaters should be aware of changing weather, noticing cloud changes, or the water beginning to white cap.

The best advice is to pay attention to the weather forecast for your area every day.  Then you can assess conditions for your workday, or for other activities you have planned.  Nice, soft breezes keep us at ease; it’s just that some days the winds may get a little out of hand.  That’s when we get in situations that we must remain calm and use our skills to stay safe.

Uncategorized, Weather Protection

IT’S ALMOST TIME FOR THE WINTER PARALYMPICS!

The Winter Olympic Games were completed on February 28th . However, another spectacular event is taking place in March, the X Paralympic Games, to be held in Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. Dates for the games are March 13th to March 21st.

Approximately 600 athletes from 45 countries have been training hard to win gold medals. These games feature the best athletes in the world with various disabilities. The slogan of the Paralympic Movement is “Spirit in Motion”. The first Summer Paralympic Games were held in Italy in 1960. Sweden hosted the first Winter Paralympic Games in 1976. We look forward to cheering on our favorite athletes, and wish them all “Good Luck!”

For the Winter Paralympic Games, you will see great competition in the following events:

 1. Ice Sledge Hockey

2. Wheelchair Curling

3. Alpine Skiing

4. Biathlon

5. Cross-Country Skiing

 

 Summer Paralympic Games include:

1. Athletics (track and field)

 2. Boccia

3. Cycling

4. Equestrian

5. Football 5-a-side

6. Football 7-a-side

7. Goalball

8. Judo

9. Powerlifting

10. Rowing

11. Sailing

12. Shooting

13. Swimming

14. Table Tennis

15. Volleyball (sitting)

16. Wheelchair basketball

17. Wheelchair fencing

18. Wheelchair rugby

19. Wheelchair tennis

 

These athletes come from all over the world to show that they have the skills and power to triumph in their chosen sport by overcoming the obstacles they contend with.  Congratulations to every competitor; you make the world proud!

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

ONCE MORE, HELP IS ON THE WAY!

When news of an 8.8 earthquake hit the Latin American country of Chile on Saturday, President Obama sent word to President Michelle Bachelet, that the U.S. is ready to help.   Secretary of State Hillary Clinton left Sunday for a planned 5-day trip to Latin America.  She also promised that rescue and recovery support is available.

Thus far, Chile has reported 708 deaths resulting from the earthquake.  Concepcion, population 670,000, was hardest hit.  The quake’s epicenter was reported offshore and 21 miles underground, which was about 200 miles from Chile’s largest city, Santiago.

President Bachelet has ordered the country’s military troops to assist local police in controlling looting.  She has appealed for help from other countries, as well.

Although the earthquake measured stronger than the Haiti quake, the devastation and death count was much higher in Haiti, whose death toll is 220,000.  Millions of persons remain homeless, and still in need of food, water, and shelter.  The location of the epicenter of Haiti’s earthquake was 8 miles underground, and on the edge of Port-au-Prince.  After the Saturday quake, there was the threat of tsunamis as far away as Russia and Japan; however, there have been no immediate reports of serious damage from any countries.

Chile is the wealthiest country in Latin America; Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.  Chile has architectural structures that can handle natural disasters better than the buildings in Haiti that were poorly built, and crumbled on top of each other.  February, 2010, has not been kind to our friends to the south.  Help came from all over the world when the earthquake happened in Haiti.  When Chile decides what their main needs will be, dedicated rescue teams and workers of all types will be there.  Thankfully, their infrastructure and government can handle things well, and they are better able to take care of their people.

We pray for the safety of all volunteers who travel to Chile and for the well-being of the citizens of that country.  Let’s hope for peace and quiet for a long time!

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!

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

IT’S ALMOST TIME FOR THE WINTER OLYMPICS!

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If you are not among the lucky ones that are going to the spectacular country of Canada for the 2010 Winter Olympics, get out the hot chocolate, popcorn, candy and other goodies and get ready for some excitement and beautiful scenery.   British Columbia, Canada, is home to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games from February 12 through 28, and the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 through 21.  Host venue cities are Vancouver, Whistler, and Richmond.  The official torch is already crossing Canada.

Officials have been preparing for months, and Canadians are excited to welcome athletes and fans from all over the world.  The government is taking serious precautions with safety, health and security concerns for all visitors and athletes, as well as their own citizens.

One of the health issues is the spread of the H1N1 virus.  The World Health Organization is sending a representative to monitor for potential disease outbreaks, but officials feel the threat has passed.  However, British Columbia health officials have been planning for the possible impact it would have on the games since before the pandemic was declared in June.  In their planning, they decided to keep a large supply of antiviral drugs on hand, just in case.

To avoid a major outbreak, the best practices are to continue with these sanitary protocols: washing hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and when sick, don’t get out in public.  Persons traveling to the games need to be watchful for exposure to sick persons, and not touch surfaces if they can keep from it.  Those with children should be extra cautious in protecting them from the illness.  Keeping hand sanitizer in ones’ bag or purse will serve as a reminder to keep your hands clean.  First and foremost, persons planning to attend need to get both the seasonal flu shot and H1N1 shot.  Hopefully, the athletes will have had theirs.  More than 100 staffers of the U.S. Olympic Committee are getting their H1N1 vaccines before they head to Vancouver.  Athletes are saying there may be more “elbow bumps” than hand shaking this time!

The Canadian organizers of the games have contingency plans for staffing should the virus affect regular staff members.  A security team of 750 officers will be on stand-by in case of illness or emergency.  There is a pool of volunteers that can be ready in short-order time.  Although they can’t make it a requirement, all staff members and volunteers have been asked to take the vaccine.  Many teams are arriving this month, and will have the opportunity to take the vaccine in time for it to be effective, if they haven’t already taken it.  Public health nurses will be at the athletes’ villages, as well as venues, including hotels where officials and sponsors will stay to monitor for illnesses.

We wish the country of Canada much success in keeping athletes, their families, and all the visitors to the Olympics both safe and well.  There are many security issues that they are dealing with, as well as health concerns.  With the very best athletes representing their home countries, this is a time for focusing the eyes of the world toward the good sportsmanship that is displayed by those who have worked so very hard to achieve their goals.  We wish good traveling and health to all those who are fortunate to attend these Winter Olympics, in addition to the excitement of seeing the true beauty of Canada.

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

WE CAN ALL HELP HAITI!

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In the early evening of January 12th, an earthquake measuring 7 on the Richter scale struck the tiny Caribbean nation of Haiti. The epicenter of the quake was about 10 miles south of Port-Au-Prince, the country’s densely populated capital, and the damage was disastrous.

The U.N. headquarters and the Presidential Palace became piles of rubble, with persons buried underneath them, in addition to businesses, hospitals, schools, and homes.  Some buildings are still standing, but it is feared that they could come crumbling down at any time.  An estimated 200,000 people are dead, thousands more are injured and countless more are still missing.  Aftershocks continue to rock the capital.  Countries from all over the world have sent rescue and medical personnel to the aid of Haitians and others who live there – from babies to the elderly.  Medical professionals worry that many of the injured will not be able to survive their wounds, due to the risk of infection and disease, and lack of antibiotics and other badly needed medicines.  The arrival and distribution of medical supplies, water and food, has been slowed down due to the lack of sufficient landing space, as there is only a single-runway airport.

The United States plans to have around 16,000 troops in Haiti by the end of this week.  Heavy construction equipment will be used to clear pathways for transportation of food, water, clothing, and medicines to reach the people who so desperately need it. There are more than 2 million persons who have been left homeless.

Texas America Safety Company the parent company for www.blog4safety.com has donated respirators, gloves, and disposable clothing for use in the relief effort through FEED THE CHILDREN.  We encourage everyone to join us in giving to a reputable charity.  All donations will help these folks survive until they are able to rebuild their lives and their country.  Pray for the homeless, injured, those who have lost loved ones, and for the wonderful volunteers who are working so hard to help them.

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

HOW TO STAY TOASTY IN FROSTY WEATHER

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As winter is creeping up on us, and probably already has in some sections of the country, it’s important that we know all the tricks of staying warm.  For those who work in the outdoors, it is very important to be protected from the elements.  Employers are responsible to see that working conditions do not put their employees’ health at risk, so they should inform workers on what to expect and how to protect themselves.

In earlier articles, Cold Stress Equation Parts I and II, we have gone into detail about this very subject; Part II especially describes how to recognize and prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and what to do to if a person experiences either of these.  As stated earlier, it is important that layering the right types of clothing with a waterproof top layer is a good plan.

Eating small, hot, and even spicy foods give the nervous system a warmth signal that encourages blood flow to the extremities.  Drinks with caffeine constrict blood vessels, making the extremities colder.  Alcohol is dehydrating and suppresses shivering, the involuntary muscle contractions that help the body warm itself.  Tobacco also constricts blood vessels and cools the body by reducing circulation.  (It goes without saying that alcohol shouldn’t be consumed while working, anyway, but if you are outdoors for hunting or sports,  keep this in mind – it won’t warm you up!)

There are products made especially to help keep you warm.  Keep these in mind when looking for just the right thing:

  • Slush boots, rainwear
  • Winter liners
  • Gloves
  • Earmuffs
  • Coveralls

Outdoor exposure should be limited if possible, but for those who face working outdoors on a daily basis, stretching the muscles before work helps warm up the muscles and prevent muscle pulls.  Remember to drink lots of water, as well.  A change of dry clothes can come in handy when having to endure windy, humid days.

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

ARE YOU SNEEZING YET?

With Fall approaching, several of us will have our fair share of either allergies or sinus problems.  Ragweed and all kinds of pollen are floating around like crazy right now!  It doesn’t really sound like a big deal, but either one can cause health problems.   Allergy symptoms are often confused with a cold or flu.  Allergies are the immune systems’ reaction to generally harmless substances and continue off and on, much longer than a cold.  Animal fur, fabrics, smoke, fragrances (candles or perfume), and many outdoor plants are just a few of the culprits that bother those with allergies. (I’m getting choked up, just thinking about it!) Allergic reactions to certain foods can often have serious results.

Symptoms of allergies are:

  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes
  • Repeated ear and sinus infections
  • Loss of smell, taste
  • Hoarseness
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Cold symptoms that last more than 10 days without a fever

Sinuses are air-filled spaces behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes, with openings to the nose, and serve as conditioners that filter and humidify the air.   If the sinuses become blocked, miserable headaches occur, as well as these other symptoms of acute sinusitis:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Greenish nasal discharge
  • Facial or dental pain
  • Eye pain
  • Night cough
  • Fever
  • Sore throat

Here are some suggestions if you are plagued by sinus or allergy problems:

  • Ask your doctor to prescribe the proper medication to keep allergy/sinus problems under control.
  • Avoid smoke and irritants that increase your chance of developing sinus/allergy difficulties.
  • Check the pollen counts in your area before you go outdoors.
  • Use a saline mist spray to keep sinuses healthy.
  • If you work in dusty environments, use a respirator.
  • If you are prone to allergies, protect your eyes with goggles or wraparound glasses.
  • Do not take antihistamines that could cause drowsiness while driving or working.
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!