Tidbits – 1/14/08

Home Safety Tips: Each year 7 million Americans suffer disabling injuries and another 28,800 die as a result of injuries in the home. Here are some tips to make your home a little safer.
Emergency Phone Numbers/Emergency Evacuation Plan - Post a list of emergency phone numbers at every telephone in the home or at least on the refrigerator. In the event of an emergency, time is of the essence and even a child can phone for help if the number is available. And, make your escape plan now, before you need it. Have at least two exits from every room and include all occupants of the home in practicing the plan.
Slip-Resistant Finishes - Use a non-slip mat, or install strips/decals in bathtubs and showers to prevent slipping. Head injuries due to a fall in the shower can be disabling!
Tagged Shutoffs - Place tags on your home shut off valves for gas, oil, and water, and the main shutoff for your electrical supply. Know how to safely turn off these services to your home in the event of an emergency.
Handrails - Properly shaped handrails on both sides of all stairs are important. Many stairs lack a handrail on one or both sides and too often the handrail is hard to grip. Don't forget that stairs with just two or three steps (typical on the exterior of many homes) need handrails. Visit homesafetycouncil.org for additional home safety information.

Step up
“If you don't accept responsibility for your own actions, then you are forever chained to a position of defense.” -Holly Lisle

Warning for ATV Enthusiasts - Before you place your helmet near a paint can, or over your handlebars, check out these little-known facts regarding ATV riding helmets and safety:
-Never store your helmet near gasoline, cleaning fluids, or paint. The fumes can react with the helmet's materials and cause the helmet to decompose.
-Never place your helmet near a quad's exhaust pipes or hot engine parts. The heat can melt or deform the shock absorbing liner, usually a form of Styrofoam, rendering it useless in an impact.
-Never hang your helmet on your handlebars. You might not be able to see it when mounting your quad and the shock absorbing liner may compress if it carries the weight of the helmet. Source: New Hampshire ATV Club

Did You Know…
-TVs, ranges and other furniture can tip over and crush young children. Teach kids not to crawl up or own furniture.
-Over a half million bunk beds have been recalled in the past few years for safety’s sake.
-According to this news account, teenagers were:
48% more likely to have a vehicle accident when there was another passenger in the car compared to them being alone.
158% more likely when there were two passengers.
200% more likely when there were three or more. Thanks to Bob Cornett

Quote of the Week: “The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.” George Eliot