Tag Archives: holiday safety

OBSERVE LABOR DAY BY NOT LABORING

Well, another Labor Day is rolling around again. Where does the time go? Seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the Fourth of July! In case you don’t already know, here are a few facts concerning Labor Day:

  • Canada led off with the idea in 1872. Parades and other festivities honored workers following The Trade Union Act, which legalized and protected union activities.
  • In the United States, the Central Labor Union followed suit, and started the holiday for workers in 1882.
  • Labor Day became a federal holiday in the U.S. in 1894.
  • Labor Day is observed on the first Monday in September.

Now that we have our facts behind us, we hope that your Labor Day holiday will be a safe one. We know that most Americans regard this holiday as the official winding up of summer fun, the beginning of school, start of football season, and last holiday until Thanksgiving.

As the dog days of summer are here, make the most of the long weekend (September 4th -September 7th) by traveling safely, allowing plenty of extra time to get to your destination and back home, in order to avoid a ticket from your friendly state trooper.

If you are going on an outing, such as fishing, camping, hiking, etc., be sure to take along your sunscreen, first aid kit, sunglasses, insect repellent, and protective gear. Because the weather is still warm, you’ll want to keep all perishable food items cold, and not leave them out of the ice chest for more than one hour. Taking along a NOAA weather radio would be a good plan, too, as this time of the year, there may be weather changes that would affect your outdoor activities.

We hope the weekend will be a good one for you, and that you go back to your job rested and/or energized for fall. Play it safe, whatever you choose to do.

TOY SAFETY

We all know how busy Santa must be right now!  He’s probably checking that list for the last time!    If you know any of his helpers, these are a few tips they might consider:

  • Buy age-appropriate toys.  Even though some children are exceptionally bright, most toys’ designs are suited for their age.
  • Be aware of toys that may contain lead paint.
  • Check labels and do not assume that all toys are safe.  They must be properly labeled.
  • If you purchase toys on the internet, be careful, as hazard warnings are not always given.
  • Avoid toys with cords or long strings, as they could cause strangulation in small children.
  • Toys for tots should not have sharp edges or points.
  • Be sure soft, plush animals are washable and have secure eyes and noses that won’t come off.
  • You can be assured that little ones are going to put anything they can in their mouths, so be careful in choosing the size of squeeze toys, rattles, etc.
  • Paints and crayons should have ASTM D4236 on the package (American Society for Testing and Materials).
  • For grade school children, helmets should be given along with bikes, scooters, skateboards, or inline skates.
  • Purchase arrows or darts with soft tips.
  • BB or pellet guns should not be purchased for children under age 16.

The holiday season brings joyous times for families.  Our purpose is to remind you of things you already know:  the Number 1 priority is selecting toys and games that are fun and safe.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

There are various opinions about the origin of this holiday, which is celebrated by the United States and Canada.   Some facts we have found are that the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in Texas, by the Spanish explorer, Francisco Vasquez de Coronado in 1541.  Pilgrims gathered in 1621 to celebrate a successful harvest.  In the United States, in 1939, the fourth Thursday in November was named as the official holiday.  The second Monday in October is Canada’s national Thanksgiving holiday.  There are probably many other theories about when and how the holiday began, but the main theme of today’s article is to have a Happy and Safe one!

This is the time of year when folks become rushed, getting ready for the big day!  The most dangerous and deadly time of the year is from now through the end of the year, according to traffic statistics.  Drunk drivers, drivers and passengers who are not wearing seatbelts, and those simply in a big hurry, account for accidents that can cause not-so-happy memories for all involved.  Even if you are going to save lots of money getting to that “Black Friday” sale the day after Thanksgiving, consider the consequences and slow down!

Following those grim reminders, are a few basic, common sense hints to make your holiday feast successful:

  • In planning your meal, keep in mind those who might have food allergies.
  • Childproof your home.
  • Prepare the meal safely; use protective gloves when handling hot dishes.
  • If you choose a fresh turkey, do not purchase it until 1-2 days before you plan to cook it.
  • Thaw your frozen bird in the refrigerator 24 hrs per each 5 lbs.
  • Lest you forget to thaw the turkey, you may thaw it in the microwave if it isn’t too big; be sure to use the power level for thawing, and cook immediately once it is thawed.
  • Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking.
  • Use the refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days.
  • Keep Fido or Tabby safe this Thanksgiving; a little turkey meat won’t hurt, but don’t give them bones from the bird, as they can splinter and be dangerous.  Foods that are spiced with garlic, etc., are not meant for animals.  Your beloved pets will be just as happy with their regular diet.

We hope that each and every one will travel safely, not eat too much, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.