Mobile Lifelines
During extreme weather events, mobile devices can be essential tools for keeping in touch with family and monitoring response and recovery efforts. Before a severe storm hits, make sure your mobile device is prepared. Start a texting tree When communication channels are disrupted, texting may be the only available way to stay connected. Create a […]
Extinguishing the Flames
Most in-home fires are caused by ordinary things like a stove burner, candle, space heater or extension cord. Mental lapses, poor judgment and carelessness make these things dangerous. Thankfully, by exercising good safety habits and taking simple prevention steps, you can cut down on deadly and damaging fire risks. First, always be sure your smoke […]
Kids at Play
Summer is in full swing, and for many of our youngest residents that means they have the freedom to play outside to their heart’s content (or at least until mom or dad call them back inside). While we encourage kids to enjoy summer to the fullest, we also want everyone to stay safe. Here are […]
Avoiding Bee Stings
For most people, a bee sting is an uncomfortable experience, but not a life-threatening event. For approximately 3 percent of adults and 0.5 percent of children, however, a sting by a bee, wasp, hornet or yellow jacket can result in a whole-body allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)—a true medical emergency. The best way to prevent an allergic […]
Food Safety During a Power Outage
Power failures can be one of the most annoying—and disabling—occurrences in a community. Whether caused by summer storms, power lines crippled by winter ice, equipment failure, an overloaded regional grid or an animal disrupting a power line, electrical outages can be costly, uncomfortable—and without forethought—sometimes even dangerous. Residents can face many hazards when a power […]
Protecting People with Dementia
The National Institute on Aging reports that as many as 5.1 million Americans may have Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia among older people. In addition to memory loss, symptoms include sleeplessness, agitation, depression, anxiety, anger and wandering. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six in 10 people with dementia will wander. Because a […]
Missing Wallet? Make Haste
Take action the minute you notice your wallet or purse is missing. Thieves often want more than cash when snatching your belongings; they want to assume your identity. The immediate steps you take can make the difference between some missing money and months (or years) of headaches and frustration. The Federal Trade Commission suggests you: […]
Advice for the Parents of Latchkey Kids
With a new school year underway, many parents and caregivers fret about latchkey children who spend time on their own before or after school. According to some estimates, more than three million kids under 12 are home alone at least part of the day. That’s inevitable given the number of single-parent households and families in […]
Before the Bell Rings: Back to School Safety
As boys and girls throughout the community sharpen their pencils and get ready to head back to class, it’s important to ensure they have a safe school year. Here are some tips on how your family can be proactive and avoid potentially harmful situations: Make sure your school has your child’s updated emergency contact information. […]
Reaching Others When Disasters Strike
The first thing many of us do during or immediately following a natural disaster is to call family and friends. Unfortunately, in the minutes and hours after a disaster, overloaded cell phone networks can make it difficult—if not impossible—to reach others. While there is no guarantee, the following tips can increase your chances of getting […]
