Natural disasters come in many forms, but often we are not prepared to deal with them. When Hurricane Katrina destroyed the levies in Louisiana, the water left people stranded on their rooftops. Flood waters in some places were up to the roofs, and in others, filled the basements of homes. One of the most often overlooked problems after storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters is the risk of electrocution. Many individuals who perish in these disasters do so because of the destruction caused that results in downed power lines, water-immersed household appliances, and the like.

Here are some important things to keep in mind to keep you and your family safe:

Read the rest of this entry »

Did you know that every year 300 children under age 5 die and 2,000+ children visit hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to submersion in swimming pools? The simple fact is that pools can be dangerous to young children (and are the leading cause of accidental death) who are under five years old.

Even the smallest of wading pools can drown a young child, for a specific reason. Young children are still developing–their bodies are trying to catch up with their heads. Because of the weight and size of a child’s head, it makes it difficult for them to lift their heads up, should they become submerged under as little as 2 inches of water.

Statistics state that 65% of submersion incidents occur at the child’s home pool, with 33% of the incidents happening in the pool at the home of a relative or friend. Most often, the parents were home, and the children were being supervised by one or both parents, who simply did not expect their child to be near the pool. Toddlers in particular (1-3 years old) are learning new things every day, so their movements are unforeseen. With 75% of incidents occurring in this age-range, toddlers are at the highest risk–a newly acquired skill or developing curiosity leads them to the pool. Another dire result of disregarding the dangers inherent in pools is that many victims don’t die from drowning–but may be severely brain damaged.

Read the rest of this entry »

Most of us go about our daily lives lost in thought: our work, our families, what’s for dinner, the price of gas. It is at times like this, when our minds are occupied with everything BUT the present moment, that we are most vulnerable to would-be criminals and most likely to fall victim to hazardous circumstances.

Focus is the most important way to maintain personal safety. It’s the small things that will keep you safe: Remembering where you parked your car, so you don’t have to wander blindly through a dark lot at night. Thinking about the fact that you will be leaving a place alone late at night, and arranging an escort to take you to your car (or parking close to the building to minimize your walk in the dark.) Focusing on your surroundings and assessing your vulnerability requires you to be not only present, but also to think ahead. When you are alone you are most open to mishaps. You need to be on the alert at all times. Note if there is anybody following you. Pay attention to groups who seem to be interested in your movements. Careful observation will alert you if there is a car or van parked right next to yours in a virtually empty lot. Is there a passenger in a parked car sitting next to your driver’s side? Always have your keys in hand when preparing to drive, this way you will not be distracted while digging around for them in a bag or pocket. Lastly, walk as upright and with purpose as possible. Don’t look like a victim.

Being watchful, alert and focused on your safety can keep you safe.

The rules for flying have changed significantly, following 9/11. Below are some important tips to keep in mind when you travel. A little prior knowledge can keep your trip on schedule and hassle-free:

•    Know the specific airline regulations for the airline with which you will be flying by visiting their websites,

•    The majority of airlines allow one carry-on bag and what is called a personal bag. This “personal bag” can be a purse or tote-bag, a briefcase or laptop case or even a camera case. It should also be able to fit under the seat if you have another carry-on, because there is often no available storage for two pieces in the overhead compartments.. Carry-on items should be no larger than 45″ (measure the height, length and width–if over 45″ in any of these measurements–it’s too big for carry-on.) Some of the airlines also have a weight restriction. Be sure to check with the airline you’re using before you get to the airport.

Read the rest of this entry »

Here’s a surprising statistic: 40% of home burglaries take place while residents are on the premises. If you do not have an action plan for this potentially dangerous scenario, you may lose more than your possessions–you could lose precious loved ones.

In the unfortunate event that your house is broken into while you’re home, there are some basic guidelines. These tips come from defense training professionals, police departments, and citizen-organized safety programs. Following are a few to think about NOW to avoid danger LATER.
Read the rest of this entry »

First time homeowners, here’s some basic information to help protect your home and the safety of you and your family. Below are some measures you will want to take to minimize the risk of home invasion and vandalism.

First and foremost you need to purchase homeowner’s insurance. That way, if all the safety precautions you take fail, you will still be able to be compensated for the loss of any valuables. You will in most cases receive a discount for installing a security alarm, and many insurance companies require a security system prior to issuing a homeowner’s insurance policy.

Store your jewelry, credit cards, money and other valuables either at your bank or in a safe. Do not leave valuables in plain sight for passerby to see. Consider purchasing a home safe to secure valuables out of sight. Read the rest of this entry »