Messages

226

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Unintentional Poisoning

« on: June 15, 2008, 07:53:00 am »

Submitted by Steve B.

                                                      Unintentional Poisoning

Did you know?
 Among people 35 to 54 years old, unintentional poisoning causes more deaths than motor vehicle crashes.
Source: cdc.gov
 
 Millions of people are unintentionally poisoned every year.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unintentional poisoning includes the use of drugs or chemicals for recreational purposes in excessive amounts, such as an "overdose."  It also includes the excessive use of drugs or chemicals for nonrecreational purposes, such as by a toddler.

Poisons come in four different forms:

· Solid poisons include medicine, plants, powders (like laundry soap and automatic dishwasher detergent), granular pesticides, and fertilizers.

· Liquid poisons may be thick or thin and include lotion, liquid laundry soap, furniture polish, lighter fluid, and syrup medicines.  Pay special attention to liquids because a large quantity can be swallowed in a short period of time and they are absorbed rapidly.

· Spray poisons include insecticides, spray paint and some cleaning products.  Aerosol sprays may be flammable, explode and cause damage to the heart and lungs if inhaled.

· Invisible poisons include gases or vapors, such as carbon monoxide from hot water heaters and furnaces, exhaust fumes from automobiles, fumes from gas or oil-burning stoves, and industrial pollution in the air.

 

 There are ways to lower the risk of unintentional poisoning at home and at work.  The safety tips below were adapted from the American Association of Poison Control Centers’ poison prevention tips for children and adults.

Drugs and medicines

· Follow directions on the label when you give or take medicines.  Read all warning labels.  Some medicines cannot be taken safely when you take other medicines or drink alcohol.

·  Turn on a light when you give or take medicines at night so that you know you have the correct amount of the right medicine.

· Keep medicines in their original bottles or containers and never share or sell your prescription drugs.
 

Household chemicals and carbon monoxide

· Always read the label before using a product that may be poisonous.

· Keep chemical products in their original bottles or containers.  Do not use food containers such as cups, bottles or jars to store chemical products like cleaning solutions or beauty products. 

· Never mix household products together.  For example, mixing bleach and ammonia can result in toxic gases.

· Wear protective clothing (gloves, long sleeves, long pants, socks, shoes) if you spray pesticides or other chemicals.

· Turn on the fan and open windows when using chemical products such as household cleaners.

 

 Another recommendation is to put the poison control number, 1-800-222-1222, on or near every home telephone and cell phone.  The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Specialists in poison information can provide treatment recommendations for a variety of questions concerning treatments for poisoning, including bites and stings, food poisoning, occupational poisoning, drug overdose, and more.

 Unintentional poisoning can occur at any time.  Ensure you are educated about the risks and take appropriate caution to avoid what could be a deadly situation.
 

227

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Clean Hands and Germs

« on: June 15, 2008, 07:47:37 am »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden

                                                    PLEASE, WASH YOUR HANDS!

 Does the name Ignaz Semmelweis sound familiar?? Probably not, but nonetheless we are all in his debt. Dr. Semmelweis was the first to demonstrate over a hundred years ago that routine hand washing can prevent the spread of disease.
Dr. Semmelweis worked in a hospital in Vienna whose maternity patients were dying at such an alarming rate; patients were begging to be sent home. Most of the patients who died were being treated by student physicians who worked on cadavers during an anatomy class before beginning their rounds in the hospital. Because the students didn’t wash their hands between touching the cadavers and the living patients, pathogenic bacteria from the cadavers regularly were transmitted to the mothers via the students’ hands.

 In an experiment considered quaint at best by his colleagues, Dr. Semmelweis insisted that his students wash their hands before treating the mothers and deaths on the maternity ward decreased almost fivefold. This was the beginning of infection control. It was and still is today a landmark achievement not just in hospitals, but in public health, because today the value of hand washing in preventing disease is recognized in the community, in schools, in child care settings, and in eating establishments.

 Specialists cite hand washing as the SINGLE most effective way to prevent the spread of disease. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) cites five common household scenarios in which disease causing germs can be passed by contaminated hands!

Hands to food: Germs are transmitted from unclean hands to food, usually by an infected food preparer that didn’t wash their hands after using the bathroom. The germs are then passed to those who eat the food.

Infected infant to hands to other children: During diaper changing germs are passed from an infant with diarrhea to the hands of a parent; if the parent doesn’t wash their hand immediately before handling another child, the germs that caused the diarrhea are passed to the second child.


Food to hands to food: Germs are transmitted from raw, uncooked foods, such as chicken, to hands; the germs are then transferred to other foods, such as salads. Cooking the raw food kills germs, BUT, the salad remains contaminated.

Nose, mouth, or eyes to hands to others: Germs that cause colds, eye infections, and other illnesses can spread to the hands by sneezing, coughing, or rubbing the eyes and then can be transferred to other family members or co‐workers!!

Food to hands to infants: Germs from uncooked foods are transferred to hands and then to infants. If a parent handling raw chicken, for example, doesn’t wash his hand before tending to an infant, they could transfer germs such as salmonella from the food to the infant.

The CDC recommends vigorous scrubbing with warm, soapy water for at least 15 seconds. When soap and water are not available, liquid hand sanitizers such as Purell is a good substitute. Keep a little bottle in your pocket at all times!
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as diarrhea and hepatitis A from spreading from family member to family member and sometimes throughout a community, PLEASE WASH YOUR HANDS before preparing food, after changing a diaper, and after using the bathroom. It will help keep your family and co-workers safe and healthy!

228

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Severe Weather and Tornadoes

« on: May 08, 2008, 07:36:31 pm »

Submitted for post by S. Breeden

                                               Severe Weather and Tornadoes
 

What notification will you receive about the possibility of tornadoes in your part of the country?

*As conditions develop that could lead to severe storms, the National Weather Service will issue severe storm watches. This is the first indication of the potential for severe weather.

*Watches become warnings in most cases because severe weather has already occurred in your area.
 
*Tornado watches are also issued when conditions are favorable.

*A tornado warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted by a person, or it has been picked up on radar.

What should you do?

*Severe weather watch – keep alert for changes in the weather. If outdoors, monitor weather service radio for updates. Secure loose objects around your home such as outside furniture or toys. Close windows and doors – it is a fallacy to leave them open thinking they will allow falling pressures to equalize in your home and prevent damage.

*Severe weather warning – be prepared to take cover. If indoors, stay away from windows. Turn off electrical appliances and do not use the telephone – you can be electrocuted if lighting travels through your telephone system. If outdoors, be alert for lighting and winds. Do not seek shelter under trees or in low lying areas where flooding can occur.

*Tornado watch – stay tuned to the weather service for updates. Be prepared to seek shelter if outdoors, or to seek safe haven if indoors. Close all windows and doors securely.
 
*Tornado warning – seek shelter immediately. A small closet away from windows, or under a sturdy doorway, or even in the bathtub with a heavy blanket over you can protect you from flying debris. Go to the lowest safe level of your home and stay away from windows and doors.

229

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Teen Driving

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:36:09 pm »

Submitted for post by Mr. Breeden.

                                             Teen Safety Behind the Wheel

Did you know?Most new drivers crash within the first 10 months of receiving their license.  Source: nationalroadsafety.org

If the question "Can I have the keys to the car?" leaves you fearful, it's no wonder.  Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death for teens in the U.S., taking nearly 6,000 lives and injuring another 300,000 each year.

The primary causes of teenage car crashes include
driving too fast, running off the road, driving in the wrong lane, and driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.

There are a number of things you can do to help prepare-and protect-the teen driver in your life.
 
Communication is key
Make sure they understand the risks and responsibilities of driving.  Be sure to keep the dialogue open before, during and after the licensing process.
 
Set a good example
If your teen driver sees you driving poorly, they're likely to pick up your poor driving habits.  So teach by example by:
 
 *Obeying all traffic laws, especially the speed limit
 *Using a headset or other hands-free device that will enable you to keep both hands on the wheel when talking on your cell phone
 *Refraining from playing with the radio, CD players, MP3 players, electronic organizers or other devices
 *Always wearing your seatbelt 

Don't rush the process.
Not all teens are ready to drive when the law says they can.  Also, just because a teen has his/her permit or license, it doesn't mean the teen is ready for every driving condition, such as rough weather, heavy traffic and night driving.

Formal instruction
Driving lessons are a great way to provide structured, hands-on training.  Not only will driving lessons help prepare a teen for the open road, it may also lead to financial discounts on auto insurance premiums.

In addition, every state has its own variation of a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, which introduces driving privileges in phases.  GDLs may require:
 
 *An extended learner period of supervised driving
 *Required hours of adult supervision during the learner period
 *Restrictions on late-night driving during initial months of licensure
 *Restrictions on transporting teen passengers during initial months of licensure

Limit passengers
According to Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD), teen driving crash rates increase by 50% with just one teen passenger in the car, and by 400% with three or more teen passengers.  So to help ensure a teen driver's safety, prohibit or limit non-adult passengers during the first few months of independent driving. 

For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at nhtsa.dot.gov.

230

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Overhead Lift Safety

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:04:24 pm »

Submitted for post by Steve B.

                                               Overhead Lift Safety

In the garage and the workplace there is often a need to conduct elevated work. Safe access to this elevated area can be provided by an assortment of aerial lifts. Some types are: JLG, Snorkel, scissor lifts, articulating boom platforms, etc. Any person using these types of lifts needs to be trained in their use prior to operating the equipment.

When using Aerial lifts the following requirements must be followed:
Conduct a pre-start inspection of the equipment prior to use each day. The user shall be responsible to see that this has occurred.
Ensure all warning placards on the equipment are legible and all personnel are familiar with the operator’s manual.
Ensure malfunctioning lifts are tagged “OUT OF SERVICE” and supervision is promptly notified. Equipment shall not be operated until repaired.

Ensure the controls are plainly marked as to their function.
Use equipment only on level ground.
Do not load platforms/baskets in excess of the design working load.
Use lifts for lifting personnel and small hand tools. Do not use lift in lieu of a crane.
Always be aware of electrical hazards near the work area and of your travel path. Use a spotter when working in close proximity of power lines.

When using an Aerial Lift Personnel Shall:
Not walk under a boom to gain access to the platform.
Not tie the platform off to any structure for any reason.
Stand on the platform floor. Standing or sitting or sitting on the railing is prohibited.
Wear safety harnesses and tie-off to the manufactures provided anchorage point within the platform.
Ensure that a fire extinguisher is available at all times.
Erect barricading or use a flag person when operating in high-traffic areas.
Never attempt to move an aerial lift while the boom/platform is elevated.
Always look in the direction the equipment is moving.

231

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Kitchen Fire Safety Tips

« on: April 24, 2008, 09:01:23 pm »

      Submitted by Mr. Breeden                                        
                                    
                                           Kitchen Fire Safety Tips

Never leave cooking food unattended.

Avoid using counter-top frying units.

Turn the handles of pots and pans toward the back of the stove when cooking. This should prevent accidental spillage of hot food or grease should they get bumped, as well as keep small children from grabbing for them.

Keep shirt sleeves rolled up to avoid dragging them over heat and catching fire.

In cases of small stove-top pan fires, sometimes the fire can be extinguished by covering the pan with its lid or pouring a significant amount of salt on flames.

Store at least one UL listed 1A-10BC fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Do not store combustible items on or above the stove.

If an appliance has a worn or frayed electric cord, replace the cord or the appliance.

232

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Driving Fatigue Quick Tips

« on: April 04, 2008, 10:29:57 pm »

Submitted by Mr. Breeden


                                              Driving Fatigue Quick Tips

If you are planning a long trip, AAA offers the following tips for avoiding fatigue:

1. Prepare for your trip by getting a good night’s sleep the night before. Plan to drive during the time that you are normally awake and stay overnight rather than traveling straight through.

2. Avoid driving during the body’s “down time”. According to AAA, this is generally in the mid-afternoon and between midnight and 6:00 a.m.

3. If you have passengers, talk to them. It will help to keep you alert, and they will also be able to tell if you are showing signs of getting sleepy.

4. Schedule a break every 2 hours or every 100 miles. Take a nap, stretch, take a walk and get some exercise before resuming your trip. Stop if you feel you are getting sleepy.

“Tricks” that do not work: Opening the window, turning on the air conditioning, or playing loud music are not effective in keeping drivers alert for any extended period of t

233

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Childrens Shoes w/Wheels

« on: March 31, 2008, 06:57:38 pm »

Shoes That Cruise

A new fad for children is shoes with wheels in the heels, or “Wheelies”. You see them everywhere: in stores, in the mall, on sidewalks and occasionally on you when the kids run into you.
A growing trend with these wheeled shoes is injuries related to falls when the user gets out of control and crashes.
Hospitals and pediatricians are reporting increased numbers of children suffering injuries such as ankle, leg and wrist fractures, sprains and bruises, and in some cases serious head injuries. If you buy these shoes for your children remind them that the hazards of these shoes are similar to skateboards or scooters. Children should wear wrist, knee and head protection. They should also practice using the shoes in a protected, flat area to get use to them before going outside. The shoes should never be used in the street or on steep hills, where the child can lose control quickly and crash. Children should also be taught to not use the shoes in pubic areas, particularly where elderly people are present and could be startled by a child hurtling by them.
Like all child safety issues, a balance of fun and safety sense is needed. Help them practice basic safety awareness – it will last a lifetime, and help them live a long and injury-free life.

Submitted By Mr. Breeden

234

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Basic Vehicle Safety

« on: March 06, 2008, 05:48:30 pm »

Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.

                                                   Vehicle Safety

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, motor vehicle accidents kill an average of 40,000 people in the U.S. each year.

To help ensure vehicle safety while on the road, the National Safety Council recommends performing the
following pre-start safety checks.

Every time you get in your car:
·         Adjust your head rest.  Correctly positioned head rests reduce whiplash injuries by 28 percent.
·         Adjust side and rearview mirrors.  This helps to eliminate blind spots and any unnecessary distractions while driving.
·         Buckle seatbelts and make sure they're properly fastened.  In the last 20 years, an estimated 157,500 lives have been saved by wearing seatbelts.
·         Check your fuel level.  In preparing for a trip—large or small—make sure you have enough gasoline in your tank to get there and back.
·         Look for engine warning lights.  Heed warning lights to lessen the chances of vehicle damage or a roadside breakdown.
·         Secure loose objects.  Loose items—from luggage to soda cans—are responsible for approximately 13,000 injuries in accidents each year.
·         Turn off cell phones.  In the last five years alone, nearly 300,000 drivers have been involved in crashes attributed to cell phone use.
 
On a weekly basis:
·         Check fluid levels, especially oil and coolant.  If you want to keep your engine running smoothly and in good shape, it’s essential to keep fluids fresh and at the proper levels.
·         Check for leaks under the car.  Spots or stains under your car can indicate gas, oil, water, power steering, or brake fluid leaks, and mean that you should seek service.
·         Check for proper tire inflation and tread wear.  Annually, more than 23,000 car crashes are attributed to blowouts or flat tires that could have been prevented by regular maintenance.
·         Ensure windshield wipers work and have sufficient fluid.  Check these items to ensure visibility during rain or snow.
·         Test brake lights, directional signals, and head and tail lights.  Confirm that signals are functioning properly, lights are visible and bulbs are burning brightly.

Safety is a money saver:
According to the Department of Energy, following pre-start safety procedures—such as proper tire inflation—can save five cents per gallon for each fill-up.  Additionally, regularly checking your oil and replacing it with the correct grade during an oil change can improve gas mileage as much as two percent, a savings of up to three cents per gallon.

For more information, visit the National Safety Council at nsc.org/issues/drivsafe.htm.

235

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Hang Up and Drive!

« on: March 04, 2008, 06:58:30 pm »

Submitted by Kentucky Steve.

                                                CELL PHONE DISTRACTIONS

 “The most commonly identified driver violations for cell phone users involved in crashes were failure to reduce speed (23.5%), traffic signal violation (9.6%), speeding (4.9%), following too closely (3.5%), and failure to yield (3.5%).” This information is from the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center.
“Nearly 80 percent of crashes and 65% of near crashes involve some form of driver inattention within three seconds before the event.” – Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.

 An increasing number of states are introducing and passing legislation to restrict the use of wireless devices by drivers. As of November 2007, six states and the District of Columbia have bans in place (California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Utah, and Washington). Some states have ruled that text messaging is already covered in the “hands free” legislation.
 
 What steps can drivers take to reduce their risk of having an accident? Although it may seem impractical to some drivers, the best option is to turn off the phone while driving. If your company allows use of cell phones or two way radio devices, here are a few tips:

 Remember that safe driving is your first responsibility. Always buckle up, keep your eyes on the road, and hands on the wheel (use auto dialers, or ask passengers to place calls for you).

Whenever possible and safe to do so, pull off the highway to make calls.

 Never take notes or read maps while on the phone under any kind of driving conditions. Always pull off the road to a safe, secure parking area to deal with complicated discussions.

 Let the voicemail feature pick up calls when dealing with difficult conditions (bad weather, heavy traffic, etc.).
Although the use of speaker phones, earpieces, auto dialers and speech-activated phones will not eliminate the risk, these features can help you to maintain concentration on driving duties.
 
 Complicated conversations should be minimized – short simple communications should be the norm when in traffic conditions. If a detailed conversation is necessary, ask to conduct the call after you’ve found a place to stop: complex interactions are more likely to cause a significant distraction.

 If you are distracted by a phone conversation, you are putting yourself “at risk” of becoming involved in a collision, and possibly endangering others.

 It is always prudent to minimize distractions when driving, and turning off the phone may be very helpful; however, if your company does not restrict cell use while driving, please be extra careful and vigilant – it only takes a moment to misread hazards on the road that can lead to a collision.

236

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

« on: February 10, 2008, 09:20:47 pm »

Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.

                                   Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
 
Give safety the personal touch!

In manufacturing,industrial and garage settings, the right protective equipment can be the
difference between a happy and a miserable work life. Using the right protective equipment
for your job will help you to focus on the work and other safety issues.

PPE Risks

• Every part of you, particularly head, hands and feet
• Protection from toxic substances
• Environmental protection

Tips for Prevention

• Start at the top. If you wear a hard hat, make sure it fits properly and
that the suspension is adjusted correctly.
• Keep protective glasses or goggles clean and store them properly to avoid scratches or other damage. It’s always a good idea to have a
spare pair handy.
• You may not notice hearing loss until it’s too late. If you’re in a noisy environment, use ear plugs or ear muffs.
• Keep hands and fingers safe by removing all jewelry before you start work. Use the right gloves for the job.
• If you work with chemicals, cleaning solvents, etc., make sure to wear gloves and protective clothing that resists chemicals.
• Never use a respirator that doesn’t fit securely, has become clogged or damaged, or one through which you can smell contaminants.
• Get in step with safety. Wear the right safety footwear, and have it fitted by an expert. The ANSI-Z41 label inside means your footwear meets
recognized safety standards.

 
Source: National Safety Council

237

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Falls in the Home

« on: February 06, 2008, 09:20:16 pm »

 Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.

                                                Falls in the Home 

Don’t let unsafe behaviors trip you up.


People think of home falls as a problem for the elderly, but the fact is that they’re second
only to poisoning for accidental deaths in the home and community. People of all ages are
vulnerable to falls, but with some common sense, most falls can be prevented.

Home Falls Risks

• Clutter, wires and even pets create obstructions on the floor
• Slippery floors, baths and outside walkways
• Improper use of ladders; unsafe reaching for high shelves, light fixtures, etc.
• Darkness leads to falls at night

Tips for Prevention

• Make sure the floors of your home are free of clutter, piles and other obstacles.
• Avoid scatter rugs and highly waxed floors. Don’t walk around in stocking feet – wear slippers or other skid-proof footwear, or go
barefoot.
• Keep rooms well-lit. Put nightlights in hallways and bathrooms for night visits.
• Install grab bars in bathtubs and showers.
• Store frequently used items in easy-to-reach areas. Use a sturdy step stool with hand rails if you must reach for something in a high place. Keep chairs for sitting.
• Clear fallen leaves, snow and ice from walkways before they become slipping hazards.
• Keep outdoor walkways and steps in good repair.
• Use caution and proper tools for home maintenance; avoid makeshift scaffolding or too-short ladders for hard to reach jobs. Stay off the roof unless you’re certain you know what you’re doing.


Source: National Safety Council

238

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Welding and Hot Work

« on: January 30, 2008, 09:40:16 pm »

 Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.

HOT WORK

  Welding and other hot work presents significant opportunities for fires and injuries. How work is performed during any
operation involving open flames or work which produces heat and sparks. Typical operations include brazing,
open flame soldering, grinding, arc welding/cutting, oxy-fuel gas welding, hot taps, and torch applied
heat. Because of the high temperatures involved and the potential for fire and serious injury, care must
be taken to ensure that work is performed safely.


Hazards associated with hot work are:

• Fires/Explosions (hot surfaces can be ignition sources)

• Burns (Both from welding equipment itself and hot surfaces)

• Toxic fumes, particles and smoke

• Eye injuries (burn and particle)

• Electric shock

• Noise

• Cuts from grinding wheels

Fire Explosion Precautions

• Do not cut, weld, braze, or grind in the presence of combustible or flammable liquids or
atmospheres (gases, vapors, dusts)

• Do not cut, weld, braze or grind on drums, barrels, tanks, or other containers

• Inspect cracks and holes in floors, walls, and ceilings of the work area to ensure that no
combustible materials, or personnel, will be exposed to sparks, should they pass through the
cracks, hole, or penetration.

• If the object to be worked cannot readily be moved to a routine welding area, move all
combustible materials at least 35 feet from where the hot work will take place.

• If any remaining combustibles cannot be moved, protect the combustibles with appropriate
guards and covers.

• Do not mix aluminum grinding dust and iron or steel grinding dust. Such a mixture can, under
special conditions, explode. Finely divided aluminum mixed with finely divided ferrous oxide
forms Thermite, a compound that burns greater then 3,000 deg. Celsius.


Burns and Personal Injury Precautions

• Using welding curtains and shields

• Ensure adequate ventilation during the hot work process

  a. Materials such as lead, cadmium, and beryllium generate toxic gases when heated to their
vaporization point.

  b. Sanding, grinding, or similar activities can release dangerous respirable particles.

• Protect yourself from electrical shocks by maintaining electrical welding equipment in good
condition. Replace damaged leads immediately.

• Goggles and face shields that give maximum eye protection for each welding, flame cutting and
soldering process shall be worn by personnel performing these operations and helpers assisting in
the hot work.

  a. It is not necessary to have a direct view of a welding arc to injure your eye.
Sufficient light can reflect from nearby surfaces to cause a “welders flash” especially
with prolonged exposures.

• Flame resistant gloves and jackets or aprons should be worn during welding, grinding, flame
cutting and soldering.

• Wear hearing protection for high noise levels produced by grinding or cutting
activities.

239

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Fire Safety

« on: January 28, 2008, 09:21:31 pm »

Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.

                                                   Fire Safety

Did you know?
A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures can reach 100°F at floor level and rise to 600°F degrees at eye level. Air this hot can melt clothes to skin and scorch lungs when inhaled.
Source: usfa.dhs.gov


Each year in the U.S., approximately 4,000 people die, more than 20,000 people are injured and $6.9 billion in property damage is caused by home fires. You can prevent the loss of life and property by following some basic fire safety guidelines.

Fire prevention
The best way to practice fire safety is to prevent one from happening in the first place. Keep the following fire prevention tips in mind:
· According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the leading cause of fire deaths is careless smoking. Make sure cigarettes and/or cigars are extinguished properly before dumping ashes, and never smoke in bed.
· Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.
· Never leave a burning candle unattended.
· Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
· Avoid cooking fires by keeping your kitchen and appliances grease-free.
· Replace or professionally repair any appliances that overheat, smell unusual or spark.
· Space heaters can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure yours will automatically shut off if tipped over, and keep flammable materials and children at least three feet away.
· Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
Life saving equipment
· Homes should be equipped with smoke detectors on every level, particularly outside of sleeping areas. Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
· Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, near the furnace and in your garage. If you must use an extinguisher, make sure you have a clear way out in the event you can't put out the fire.
· Have a slide or rope ladder available if there is only one exit from the upper floor.
· Consider having a residential sprinkler system installed.
Escaping a fire
· Plan and practice an escape route for each area of your home. Be sure to include pets as part of your organized evacuation plan.
· If smoke is present, crawl or stay low to the ground to prevent inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes.
· Always feel a door before opening it. If it's hot, do not open it and find another way out.
· Teach every family member to “stop, drop and roll” if clothes catch fire.
· Teach children not to hide from fire or smoke and to go to firefighters who are there to help them.
· Ensure windows are in proper working order and are not painted shut. Window guards should include a disengagement latch in case you must escape through a window.
· Never take the elevator during a fire. You may be trapped if the power goes out.
· Have a designated meeting place outside.
· Never re-enter a burning building.
· Call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's house.

For more information, visit FireSafety.gov.

240

Safety / On & Off The Trail / Preventing Back Pain and Injuries

« on: January 05, 2008, 08:02:30 am »

Preventing Back Pain and Injuries

*Submitted by Kentucky Steve

Did you know?
Back injuries cost companies $10-14 billion in workers compensation costs and 100 million lost work days annually. 
Source: CDC.gov
 
A healthy back is critical to your ability to perform everyday tasks like walking, sitting and standing, so it's important to take care of it.  Since most back pain and injuries occur from improper use, learning a few basic guidelines can help keep your back in good shape.

 

Exercise
Having strong back and stomach muscles helps to ease the stress your back is put through each day.  By doing simple abdominal and back exercises, you not only strengthen your back and stomach, but also reduce stress and improve your appearance, too.

Lose excess weight
Potbellies and back pain go hand-in-hand.  This is because the extra weight that you carry around the stomach exerts extra force on your back and stomach muscles.  By losing belly fat, you can reduce strain and pain in your back.


Pay attention to posture
Poor posture stresses your back.  When you slouch, you exaggerate your back's natural curves which can lead to muscle fatigue and injury.  In contrast, good posture relaxes your muscles and requires minimal effort to balance your body.

·         Sitting: The best way to sit is straight, with your back against the back of the chair with your feet flat on the floor and your knees slightly higher than your hips.  If you sit for long periods of time, try to walk around or stretch about every hour.

·         Standing: Learn to stand tall with your head up and shoulders back.  If you stand for long periods of time, rest one foot on a stool or small box from time to time. While you stand, hold reading material at eye level.  Avoid bending forward to do work.


Lift properly
There’s a right way and a wrong way to lift and carry a large or heavy load.  The next time you do any heavy lifting, remember the following safety tips:

 

·         Always bend at the knees -- never at the waist. 

·         Spread your feet shoulder width apart to give yourself a solid base of support.

·         Make sure you have a good grip on the object.

·         Lift with your leg muscles.

·         Tighten your stomach muscles.

·         Keep the object close to your body.

·         Avoid twisting your body; instead, point your toes in the direction you want to move and pivot in that direction.

·         Avoid lifting over your head or over an obstruction.

·         If possible, divide a heavy load into several lighter ones. 

·         When moving the object, push it instead of pulling it. 

·         Make sure your footing is secure.

·         Lift smoothly and slowly -- don't jerk the load. 

·         Whenever possible, use a cart or dolly to carry a large or heavy object. 

·         Ask for help if you need it.