Tag Archives: travel

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Health And Safety Considerations For Employees Working Abroad

Guest Blog by Jamie Costello

Before taking up a job opportunity abroad, employees need to be advised of the basic health and safety guidelines that may be applicable to their new role. There should still be procedures in place to ensure the employee’s wellbeing, no matter where in the world they are. With this in mind, here’s a look at some health and safety considerations for employees working abroad.

 

Travelling

The job role may require an employee to travel to one site or possibly several, depending on the requirements. Many jobs will involve air travel. There are a few health concerns often associated with long-haul flights that an employee should consider, such as: deep vein thrombosis, ear popping, dehydration and jet-lag. If any employee is unsure of health and safety risks associated with travelling for work, they can consult the guidelines published by the Department of Health.

Health Risks

Many countries also carry health risks specific to that area. For example, a great deal of African and southeast Asia counties will require the traveller to have a Cholera jab and sometimes Hepatitis A & B vaccination before entering. Travellers should consult their doctor who will be able to advise them on what vaccinations they may need before setting off. The list of health risks for certain countries is constantly changing as diseases come and go. For the up-to-date risks, employees should check back with the World Health Organisation website regularly.

Laws And Culture

It’s no surprise that every country will have different laws and cultures. For the employees safety and out of respect, they should familiarise themselves with the customs of each place. What may seem innocent in the UK may be considered a crime elsewhere – for example hand gestures or drinking alcohol. In some cases, some businesses may make it a priority to brief employees on what will be expected of them upon arrival. In addition to understanding customs and traditions, travellers should also be made aware of the problems that might arise from the language barrier.

Crime And Security

Much like with outbreaks of diseases, some countries have higher crime rates than others. Foreign visitors can often be targets for muggings, kidnappings and violence. Employees should be given advice on steps to avoid trouble, including: locking personal belongings away in a safe at their accommodation, keeping valuables in zipped pockets, and avoiding high crime areas whenever possible.

Consider The Climate

Staff may be asked to relocate to an area with unpredictable or sometimes dangerous weather. They could experience extremes of temperature, monsoons, hurricanes or storms. Before travelling, employees should be advised on the risks that are associated with sunburn, skin cancer and hypothermia.

Mental Wellbeing

Working abroad can take a toll on a person’s mental wellbeing. This could be feelings of isolation, sickness, frustration in language barriers and pressure with workloads. In these situations, an employee may be required to provide support. This is particularly appropriate for staff who are working abroad for long periods of time for example those moving to UK from US, separated from family and friends.

Emergency Situations

There are countless eventualities that could occur as a result of being abroad. Unpredictable instances like natural disasters, outbreaks of disease, political trouble, or a spike in crime. All of these incidents could end up putting an employees health and safety at risk. Businesses should provide employees with information regarding where to go in case of each emergency, including details about all the facilities available. The employer should also set up arrangements to ensure an instant response in the case of an emergency.

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

HOME SECURITY CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU TRAVEL (GUEST POST)

Traveling is stressful enough without worrying about a possible break-in while you’re away. Keeping your home safe and secure during your absence is a common worry for many travelers. However, some basic vigilance can help prevent many break-ins. Many breaking-and-entering scenarios are not premeditated, but instead criminals finding opportunities left by homeowners. Criminals will look for things like obviously unoccupied homes, open garages, easy points of entry to a house, and so on. Using caution and planning ahead can help keep you from falling victim to a break-in while you’re away from home. 

Here is a basic checklist of things to do (and not to do) before you travel:

  •  Make sure all doors and windows are locked. Double-check them just to make sure. Doors should be locked and bolted, windows should be closed and latched. Especially look in areas like the basement or attic, which can frequently be forgotten.
  •  Check all appliances (stoves, water heaters, fans, computers) and turn off anything that doesn’t need to be in use while you’re gone. Unplug the television and the coffee maker.
  •  Have a neighbor or friend check in frequently while you’re gone, or get someone to house-sit. Give them any emergency numbers or information they might need. Make sure you trust the right person with safeguarding your home while you’re away. Don’t just trust your home safety with anybody; make sure that neighbor is one you know well and have a rapport with.
  •  Arrange for the care of your pets — have that same friend or neighbor dog- or cat-sit, or board your pets to ensure their needs are met while you’re on vacation. If you have a family dog, their barks can sometimes be a deterrent to criminals, but there is no guarantee of the dog’s safety. Make sure your pets are looked after.
  •  If you have a security system (or the budget to install one), make sure you understand its use and capabilities. Inform the alarm company before you leave of your travel plans, and instruct anyone who will be stopping by to visit or house-sit on how to use the alarm system.
  •  Avoid leaving any emails, voice mails, Facebook posts, or other messages announcing your upcoming absence. You never know who might get those messages. Do inform the people who should be informed, but be careful about giving out this information.
  •  Cancel or suspend your mail or newspaper service while you’re away, or have someone pick up your mail and newspaper, so it doesn’t pile up around the house.
  •  Leave some lights on around the house, so your home isn’t dark, unlit, and obviously unoccupied. If you can, buy and install some timers for your lights, and program them to turn off and on at random intervals.
  •  Pre-pay any bills that might come due while you’re gone, not only to avoid any unpleasant shut-offs or nasty surprises when you get home, but so you don’t undermine other security efforts (like leaving your lights on).
  • Store away any loose yard and household items, like hoses, grills, lawn ornaments, etc. If you have any vehicles that will be left behind, park them safely in the garage.
  •  Stow any irreplaceable valuables in a locked, hidden safe, or take them out of the house to a safety deposit box.

 If you are truly concerned about home safety and the possibility of a break-in, install bars or grills on your windows, and document your valuable possessions in case something does happen while you’re gone.

Even if you can’t afford an alarm system, creating a “lived-in” atmosphere with light and sound, and having trusted neighbors or friends watch your house while you’re away, are all good ways to ensure your home remains safe and secure for your return.

Sidney writes with Design55.  She frequently travels, meaning she has become somewhat of an expert at securing her home.

General Safety Issues

SAFETY AND SECURITY IN YOUR VAN (GUEST POST)

Sent by Chris Grasso  

The size and shape of vans lend to some particular safety issues, and since many people assume that vans are carrying something valuable, security becomes an issue, as well. It’s important that your vehicle is not an easy target for those hoping to cash-in on some easy-to-steal valuables. Protection of your family and possessions is an aspect of travel that cannot be overstated. Whether you’re using your van around town or driving it across the country, always keep these safety and security issues in mind.

Mind Your Speed

Conversion vans are high-profile vehicles, and susceptible to flipping over at high speeds. It’s always important to mind your speed on busy highways and unfamiliar roads. Reducing your speed isn’t only a safer way to drive your van, it lowers fuel costs and protects you from speeding tickets. Fewer tickets and accidents also save you money on insurance premiums. Stay at the speed limit, and take care around steep curves, unfamiliar, icy and wet roads. Watch for signs indicating low shoulders, steep curves and slippery conditions.

Be Aware of Surroundings

Dark parking lots aren’t the only time to have your guard up. Sometimes, to prevent being a victim you have to think like a criminal. What target would you pick? Someone distracted loading or unloading a van, people walking to or from the vehicle with their head low, drivers who don’t lock their doors – all these are signals to the would-be criminal that you’re an easy target. Keep your head up and stay alert, even when you’re busy loading and unloading.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Many crimes are opportunistic and would probably never happen if the victim hadn’t “tempted” the perpetrator. When you have equipment, packages or other items of value, keep them out of sight. One way is to get a van with tinted windows, like many of the selections at Dave Arbogast Vans. Another option is to keep old blankets or sheets in the vehicle to cover items while you’re away from the van. Someone might not risk breaking in the vehicle if it looks like nothing, but they might risk it if they see electronics, tools or valuable equipment.

Use Smartphone Apps to Stay Safe

One of the neatest security devices we own is in our pocket. There are tons of apps to issue alerts in case of emergency. Some automatically dial emergency numbers if you don’t respond at a designated time. Other apps alert emergency response teams or sound an alarm. Apps range in price from free to about $6, but many of the free apps are actually the highest rated by users.

When it comes to safety and security in your van, there simply isn’t a substitute for common sense. If a situation looks dangerous, listen to your gut. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Chris is a UNC Chapel Hill grad, now residing in Tampa.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES EVERY TRAVELER MUST HAVE (GUEST POST)

Sent to us by Joe Schembri

Road trips have become one of the favorite choices for family vacations. Hopping into a motorhome with your loved ones can save the cost of airfare and make the vacation much more affordable. An even bigger draw is the element of adventure that comes with taking to the open road. Families tend to plan out their itinerary, attractions to visit, places to eat, but most don’t plan for emergencies. It can be fun to take an unexpected detour, but make sure that any surprises that come up are pleasant ones.

Unfortunately, some surprising elements can end up ruining your road trip if you aren’t careful. If you and your family are driving at night, heading towards an RV park where you’ll camp for the night and your tire blows out, would you be ready for it? Preparation is the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major setback for your vacation. Here are some vital emergency supplies that you should be sure to gather before travelling.

Spare tire

Having a spare tire is not enough. Most people are sure not to drive without a spare tire, but not everyone checks to assure that the tire is in working order. What good is a spare tire if it is not in good condition? Before heading out on a road trip, make sure that your spare tires are in perfect condition.

Jack and Tire Iron

Having a working spare tire will do you no good without a jack and tire iron to help you change the tire. Make sure that the jack is working properly before you set out. As for the tire iron, a 4 way tire iron is the best choice. This tool can provide more leverage for difficult lug nuts, which is especially important if you are driving a rental car or RV.

Rain gear

There is nothing quite like rainstorms to make your bad luck feel even worse. If it starts raining when you are trying to change a tire, the experience will be much easier if you have the appropriate rain gear to keep you dry and improve visibility.

Fire extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is a vital safety tool for any traveler. Make sure that it is always accessible. If an emergency breaks out, you don’t want to have to dig out the extinguisher from below your luggage.

First aid kit

A first aid kit is an absolute must, no matter where you are travelling. Injuries can happen anywhere, so a well-stocked first aid kit can help treat minor wounds and even prevent an unplanned trip to the emergency room. Like the other supplies, check this kit before your departure and restock any missing supplies.

Jumper cables

A dead battery can put a damper on your travel plans and ruin your planned itineraries if you don’t have jumper cables handy. Why wait for roadside assistance when a quick battery jump can get you back to your fun plans?

Cat litter

Cat litter is a must for any cold weather road trip. If you’re driving in snow or ice this can help provide traction if you’re stuck. It can help you to get back on the road without having to call for help and wait for a tow truck.

Credit card and cash

It is important to make sure that you have access to money in case of an emergency. Have multiple forms of payment available just in case. Some places may not take credit cards, so have cash on hand as well. Your money is your last resort if your safety supplies don’t cover the scope of your emergency.

Being prepared before travelling allows you to have peace of mind. You don’t want to spend your vacation worrying about what might go wrong. Moreover, you don’t want an actual problem to occur and derail your fun. Safety supplies can assure that your trip is wonderful and full of only lovely surprises. 

This guest post was provided by Joe Schembri from Tampa, FL. Joe has traveled in everything from a small sedan to a Class C Motorhome and learned about some of these safety tips the hard way.

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

HAPPY BIRTHDAY – U.S.A. – 2011!

By now,  most of us are getting ready to celebrate on Monday,  our nation’s birthday – July 4th – Independence Day!  I want to send greetings to all of you from our home, where the grand old flag will be flying, and wish everyone a safe holiday. (Sorry, the flag looks backwards, but the wind was blowing!)

We have already talked about fireworks, so we’ll give that subject a rest!  Many are packing their bags for trips, so let’s talk about travel first.  The main thing is to be packed and ready to get an early start, because you know your friendly State troopers will be there, watching to be sure you don’t speed, and that you are safe.  If you need assistance, you can count on them, as well, to be of help.  Please don’t carry on conversations on your cell phone while driving, and above all, don’t text or drink and drive!

There are many activities that families can plan right at home, and not have to be involved in the hustle and bustle of travel.  One of my favorite memories is going to our best friends’ home every Fourth of July for grilled hamburgers and home-made ice cream!  Now we live miles away, so we had to stop that tradition; however, we make up for it when we visit each other, which is quite often.  Moms and dads can find easy crafts for the kids with some red, white and blue items that they probably can find in the house.  Local parks will be full of folks of all ages, with volleyball games, croquet, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, and many activities.

If you plan to go boating, be sure to have life jackets in the boat for each passenger.  Obey the rules of boating, and do not drink while driving a boat, as the penalty is the same as for driving a car while drinking.  Watch for other boaters, swimmers, and those on jet skis.  Sometimes everyone thinks they own that particular spot on the water, and it just doesn’t work that way!

Swimmers should be prepared with lots of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat and cover-up when they get out of the water.  Stay in pairs, just in case someone gets in water that is too deep.  Be sure if you are swimming on a beach or lake to check out the water quality for contamination.  There should be signs posted with some type of useful information.

If you are the outdoors type and want to take a hike, be sure you let someone know your plans and when you will be returning.  If you need to build a campfire, build it with sticks no larger than an adult wrist.  (Of course, first, be sure that you are not in an area where campfires are banned.)  Never leave that fire unattended and keep it small.  A fire that is not “dead out” can be rekindled by wind and start a wildfire.  Keep water handy and a shovel for throwing dirt on the fire in case it gets out of control.  Stir the remains and be sure all materials are cooled down.  Drown it with water, even move rocks to see there’s no fire beneath them. Feel all materials with bare hands to be sure that no wood is burning before leaving the campsite.

If you are cooking outdoors, beware of bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.  Be sure all utensils are clean and that you have a good source of water.  Separate raw meat from cooked meat and poultry.  Keep cold food cold and hot food hot.  Don’t let food set out for more than 1 hour in hot weather.  Keep it in an ice chest once the meal is finished.

Have a great Fourth of July, but don’t overdo it when it comes to food, alcohol, sun, or exercise.  Take along the proper clothing, suncreeen, insect repellent, and other remedies that will make you feel better tomorrow!   Remember why some of us get to be off on this day, and why we observe it.  There are young men and women who don’t have the day off, and are in countries where they can’t celebrate the way we do.  When you see our flag, think of what it stands for, and the sacrifices they make every day.  May God Bless Each One of Them, their families, all of us, and the U.S.A.

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Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection

HAVE A SAFE MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!

The Memorial Day holiday weekend ushers in the beginning of warm weather outings, as most students have finished their school year.  There is always much anticipation in the air about planned trips, summer jobs, or whatever new things are to be enjoyed.  We want to remind you that the highways will be heavily travelled, so leave a little early in order to not be rushed.  Be careful if you are traveling alone about where you take rest stops.  It is wiser to stop at convenience stores, or where there are many people, than some of the public roadside rest stops.  Also, be aware that your friendly state troopers will be out in full force, with the sole purpose of keeping you safe!  Don’t let any distractions get in the way of safety, stay off the cell phone (hands free, only), NO TEXTING WHILE DRIVING, and don’t drink and drive!

One pesky little detail I’d like to mention is that, according to the travel organization, AAA, there should be almost 35 million Americans traveling either by train, plane, or cruises.  For those that are doing so, or staying in hotels, the National Pest Management Association advises people to keep bed bug prevention and detection tips in mind. “The good news is that summer is finally here; the bad news is that bed bugs continue to lurk in places people typically visit during a vacation,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NPMA. “Although bed bugs are a year-round pest, people have a greater chance of picking up this hitchhiker during the summer as travel increases. Bed bugs are a souvenir no one wants to bring home.”

Here are several NPMA tips to help travelers remain bed bug-free. More information can be found at AllThingsBedBugs.org.

  • Pull back hotel bed sheets, inspect the mattress seams, box spring, around and behind the headboard, sofas and chairs for telltale brownish or reddish spots, shed skins or bugs.
  • Avoid putting luggage on the bed or upholstered furniture.
  • If changing rooms, be sure the new room is not adjacent to the possibly infested room.
  • Use a large plastic bag to store luggage.
  • Upon returning home, inspect and vacuum suitcases thoroughly before bringing them into the house.
  • Wash and dry clothes on hot – whether worn or not or have them dry cleaned.
  • Consumers suspecting an infestation should contact a licensed pest professional.

Many people are wondering if the high price of gasoline will affect travel, beginning this Memorial Day weekend.  The American Auto Club Association’s holiday travel projection that was released nationally, is that about 100,000 more Americans will be traveling this year than last.  According to the group, travelers will find other ways to compensate for the near record fuel costs by cutting down on other areas of their travel budgets.  Many may make the choices of less expensive vacations, such as hiking and other outings rather than more expensive meals and shopping.  And others may simply choose to stay home, maybe throw some ribs on the grill, and enjoy watching the big race, basketball playoffs, and baseball games.  That’s not such a bad idea.  Sometimes waiting to travel when it isn’t a holiday is safer.

It should be a long, hot summer, so stock up on sunscreen, and don’t forget those safety safety sunglasses, and earplugs for any loud events you plan to attend, say, the Indianapolis 500? Don’t overdo it in the sun.  A tan looks great until you get older, and then just adds to the wrinkles!

Most important of all, don’t forget the reason for this holiday.  Memorial Day is always celebrated in the United States on the last Monday of May.  This is a legal holiday that pays tribute to the memory of those who died while serving the United States in wars.  It was first observed in 1866.  We continue to honor those who gave their lives in the process of holding on to the freedoms that we enjoy.  We must also honor those who are now serving in far-away places, away from the celebration of family, and pray for their safe return.

General Safety Issues

WE WISH EVERYONE A SAFE SPRING BREAK!

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One of the things that students look forward to the most, and parents probably worry about the most – Spring Break!  It’s a time when students are ready to let their hair down, and can hardly wait to break free from the routine of daily college life.  It’s no secret that kids are looking for places that offer warm weather, water, cheap booze, and bargains.  We don’t want to rain on their parade, but feel that we should join others in warning them about some of the risks involved when traveling, especially if they choose to go to out of the United States. 

The Texas Department of Public Safety issued a very blunt statement on March 1st, stating  “Avoid Mexico travel during Spring Break and Stay Alive!”  The northern border cities were the most dangerous at one time; however, authorities have warned travelers that the drug-related violence is rapidly growing worse, and violence and other crimes have moved from the border to other parts of the country, even the resort areas in southern Mexico, as well as Mexico City.  This is the third warning in three months that the agency has advised totally staying out of Mexico.  Boaters are warned to stay on the U.S. side of Falcon Lake, where several Americans have been robbed and one young man killed in recent months.  Ted Poe, R- Humble, Texas, in his appearance on CBS’ Early Show on March 1st, said Americans or Mexican nationals are not safe in Mexico where the drug cartels are operating in different portions of the country.  A profound escalation of cartel-related conflicts in Mexico has created an environment in which deadly violence can happen anywhere, regardless of bystanders, their nationality or status.  He recommended that students go somewhere in the United States for their spring break. 

There are many places in Texas, Louisana, Florida, and other southern states that offer plenty of water and sunshine.  Because of the economy, it would keep more dollars at home.  Wherever your destination is, here’s a few tips:

  • The sun will maximize the effects of alcohol, and cause a hangover to be worse. 
  • Be sure to take along lots of sunscreen,  if you going to a beach area. 
  • Plan ahead, and think about the consequences of taking risks. 
  • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
  • Drink responsibly. 
  • Have a designated driver, and check out the laws of the area.  

Family groups will be traveling during this time, too, and all of these tips can be helpful.  The “buddy system” applies to travel anytime, anywhere.  Never get separated from your group, nor leave with strangers.  There are predators who will try to steal or commit worse crimes on unsuspecting persons.  Water safety is another thing to understand.  Do not swim where there is no lifeguard on duty.  Know the flags for water safety:

  • Red – Stay out of water, strong undertow or riptides.
  • Yellow –Undertow and riptides possible.
  • Blue – Calm water; Swim safely!

Wherever you choose to travel this spring, please do this:

  1. Have an emergency plan: designate meeting  places in case of getting separated from your group, and know the evacuation plans of the hotel you are staying in.
  2. Pack a disaster kit (just in case): water, non-perishable food, battery-operated radio, cell phone, first aid kit,and flashlight.
  3. Stay informed. 

Here are also a few tips for all travelers to follow that will help everyone stay well while on vacation: take some hand sanitizer and wipes to keep down germs in your hotel room.  Use paper cups that are provided rather than glass ones, which may not have been washed properly.  Move the bedspread away and wipe down the remote control, phone, and bathroom handles.  It pays to be “germ-conscious” when staying away from home. 

Persons who are planning to vacation outside the U.S.  should always check the U.S. State Department website for up-to-date information related to security issues in the country they plan to travel.  Have fun, but use common sense, and stay safe.  Mom and Dad will sleep a lot better when you are back home.

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

SEEK WEATHER INFORMATION BEFORE HOLIDAY TRAVEL!

Do you have your bags packed yet, and all the gifts loaded in the car?  Before you head out for your holiday destination, it is always best to check ahead of time for weather conditions for all the areas you will be traveling.  Sometimes, even then, Mother Nature changes things and you aren’t sure whether to carry on or turn around and return home!  That happened to us last year, believe it or not, even in Texas, because of snow!  When we left home, it was cloudy but clear, but the farther we traveled (south), the heavier the snow became.  About sixty miles from home, we debated if we should even try to go on; however, behind us, the snow was heavy, road was covered, and lightly traveled, so we trudged on.  Not too far down the road, it stopped snowing, and when we got to our destination another 75 miles or so, it had barely snowed.  So, you never know for sure what the weather will do, especially in Texas. 

It seems there is either “feast or famine” when it comes to weather.  Either too much or too little!  In this past week, we saw massive amounts of snow falling in the Midwestern states.  Then, the “Pineapple Express” hit California, causing their governor to declare a state of emergency in six counties.  The reason these rainstorms are given that name is because they originate in the Pacific near the Hawaiian Islands.  The Express brought torrential rains, causing mudslides and flooding, as well as dumping huge amounts of snow in higher elevations.  Following five days of rain, the storms have moved on toward Arizona, Nevada, and Utah.  Ironically, these rains brought relief to areas in California that had been suffering from drought and wildfires. 

Here in Texas, much of our state is in a drought situation, with many  areas very seriously dry.  Two homes were lost just yesterday because of grass fires. Our weather forecasters are predicting badly needed rain in areas of the state today and tomorrow.  We are keeping our fingers crossed, and are those weathermen going to be in trouble if it doesn’t rain! 

For those of you in states that have a White Christmas, enjoy it but drive carefully when you are out in it.  We aren’t meteorologists, but our forecast for you is to have the safeest  holiday ever!  Be careful if you go skiing or participate in other outdoor activities with families and friends.  For those of you who must work on the holiday, we hope your day goes well and that you arrive home safely and get to celebrate at a different time.  There are many businesses that remain open to accommodate travelers, so when you utilize their services, let them know you appreciate what they do. 

Again, check your local weather and your destination’s forecast.  Remember to take a “care package” in your vehicle: extra water, your cell phone, snacks, blankets, small flashlight, and a First Aid Kit.  This is a good idea, especially during winter months.

May the airlines, trains, buses and other means of transportation be running “right on time.”  Stay safe.

General Safety Issues, Weather Protection

LABOR DAY, 2010 SAFETY TIPS

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Monday, September 6th,   millions of American workers will celebrate Labor Day. Wrapping up summer fun, and beginning school, this will be the last holiday until Thanksgiving.  Labor Day became a federal holiday in the United States in 1894, and is always observed the first Monday in September. 

Labor Day is also known as the second deadliest holiday of the year, with Thanksgiving coming in at #1.  So, while you are busy making plans for that three-day weekend, please give some thought to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.  You know that your friendly State Troopers are going to be out in full-force, and their number one priority is seeing that you travel safely.  You may think that they are just out to get you, but as long as you drive at speeds designated by the law, and have your seat belt buckled, they won’t bother you.  One way to guarantee that is to head for your destination in plenty of time, allowing you to arrive on time.  Be sure to have your cell phone handy, but please don’t text and drive.  One of your passengers can answer your phone, or you can retrieve your messages once you have stopped driving. 

AAA expects 34.4 million Americans to travel this holiday weekend, from Thursday September 2nd, through Monday, September 6th.   Most will be going at least 50 miles from home, with the average miles travelled around 635.  If you are one of those travelers, be sure you watch for the other driver (drive defensively), motorcycles and bicycles.  Everyone should show the same respect on the roads that they expect to receive.  Driving and drinking just don’t mix, and those Driving Under the Influence (alcohol, drugs), will be arrested.  The same goes for BUI, pertaining to someone driving a boat under the influence; they will be subject to arrest, too. 

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.

 Wherever the roads take you, obey the law and stay safe.  Everyone traveling expects to return to work next Tuesday.  Do your part to see that they do.  

P.S.  Let’s hope that we have more American workers to honor next year; there are thousands who NEED jobs desperately.  Be thankful for the one you have.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues

TAKE A HIKE!

There is still time to make plans for late summer vacations!  While we certainly don’t want to rain on your parade, if hiking or camping is included in your planned activities, here are a few ideas that will help you map out a successful trip:

HIKING or CAMPING:

Whether you are a new or seasoned hiker, it pays to play it safe:

  • Always tell friends or family where you plan to hike/camp.
  • Take plenty of water, snacks and a cell phone.
  • If you are a new hiker, stay in familiar areas; it ‘s too easy to drift into unknown places.
  • In State Parks, check in with Rangers to let them know how long you plan to stay.
  • Don’t mess with wildlife!  Remember, they are wild animals, many protecting their young.
  • If camping is new to you, take shorter trips before embarking on a longer outing.
  • Wear layered clothing, easy to remove/add to be ready for weather changes.
  • Carry lightweight rain jackets.
  • Carry along a First Aid Kit.
  • Add sunscreen to your list, as well as some good safety glasses w/U.V. protection.
  • As the Boy Scouts say,  “Be Prepared!”

Before you check into the great outdoors, be sure you check out all the products you need to stay safe and comfortable.

Source: Safetyissues.com