Summer is just about here and that means many of us will be spending time outdoors enjoying water sports. Whether you and your family will be swimming in a backyard pool, taking a dip in the ocean or boating on a river or lake, keep these safety tips in mind so both children and adults stay safe around water.
- Learn to swim. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children learn to swim as early as one year old. Even children who are good swimmers should never be left unsupervised around water. The American Red Cross has swimming courses for both adults and children.
- No one, child or adult, should ever swim alone.
- Keep pool fence gates securely latched at all times.
- Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard whenever possible.
- Life jackets should be worn by both children and adults when swimming in open water such as a lake, river or the ocean.
- Do not dive in water less than six feet deep. Diving in shallow water can cause serious injury and drowning.
- Never drink alcohol when swimming or boating. In addition to impairing your judgement and coordination, alcohol also reduces your body’s ability to stay warm, increasing the chance of hypothermia.
- Keep a cell phone nearby to call for help in an emergency.
- Learn adult and child CPR.
Finally, remember young children can drown in as little as a few inches of water. Ornamental fountains and any other standing water pose a drowning danger for small children and they should never be left unsupervised where water is present. There is no substitute for vigilance. Be water smart and safe.
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You are undoubtedly aware of the importance of having a will for the eventual distribution of your physical assets, but what happens to all your social media “assets” once you die? The handling your online identity when you’re no longer around is a rapidly growing part of estate planning. A social media will details how you want your online identity handled after your death.
Begin creating your social media will by appointing a trusted person to be your online executor. They will close your online accounts once you’re deceased, including email accounts, blogs, social media account profiles and any other online accounts you may have. Here are some tips for writing a social media will:
- First, review the terms, conditions and privacy policies of the websites where you have accounts. For example, Facebook, under current policy, puts an account in a “special memorialized state” when it is notified of a death. That insures the account can’t receive friend requests and it won’t show up in search results. However, password and log-in information is not given out unless it is decreed in a will or required by law.
- Your social media will should clearly state how you want your online profiles handled. Do you want your online profile to disappear or stay up so family and friends can visit? Do you want a memorial profile? The policies of each website can help determine your choice.
- The executor of your social media will will need a list of all websites where you have a profile, as well as usernames and passwords. As many passwords change fairly regularly, you’ll need to make your executor aware of where you keep written copies of password updates.
- Your online executor will also need a copy of your death certificate, so this should be stipulated in your will. Many websites will need this proof before they take any action on your accounts.
Several states are considering laws that treat social media accounts as digital assets and give estate representatives the power to handle these accounts after death. There is also at least one start-up company that lets users set up an account on its website where you can list all your online accounts with user names, passwords and designated beneficiaries who can then shut down your accounts upon your death. The social media presence of the deceased is sure to be an area where both laws and startup businesses emerge to fill a need. In the meantime, it’s wise to think about how you want your social media presence handled and take appropriate steps to ensure compliance with your wishes.
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Online classified ads have become an increasingly popular way to buy and sell items and thousands of such transactions take place every day. Many exchanges are face-to-face and most of them occur safely and go as planned. However, there have been some heavily reported instances where buyers or sellers were robbed or even killed during what should have been routine transactions. Here are some common sense safety tips to review before meeting a buyer or seller you’ve found through the classifieds:
- Trust your instincts. If you get a bad feeling about the person on the phone, hang up. Be sure you feel comfortable about the transaction before you ever set up a meeting.
- Meet at a public and populated location such as a mall. Go inside for the exchange, rather than using the parking lot. If the buyer/seller balks at going to a high visibility area or insists on a late night meeing somewhere else, walk away from the deal. Your safety should always come first.
- Make sure you have a phone number for the buyer/seller.
- Bring a friend along to witness the transaction. Having someone else present is a big deterrent to a crime taking place. Also, tell someone where you’re going and write down phone numbers, names, locations and times.
- Look street smart. Don’t wear expensive jewelry or fancy clothes.
- Many police departments advise that you should never bring cash for large-scale purchases and instead pay by cashier’s check. This protects both the buyer and seller.
It’s important to have crime preventive strategy in place before you ever list or agree to buy an item through an online classified ad. Screen buyers or sellers carefully over the phone first by asking questions. Finally, if you’re a buyer, make sure whatever you’re buying is as advertised. Check the item for any engravings or stickers that might indicate the item is stolen or not the property of the person selling it. Buying stolen property is not a good deal.
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The Earth Day falls on April 22nd this year and there are numerous events planned in many countries to mark the day. Although I may attend an event, I’m primarily celebrating this 42nd Earth Day by assessing my home office to see how I can be more efficient at reducing waste.
I recycle everything that can possibly be recycled and reuse things whenever I can, but there is still much room for improvement. For starters, a visit to the Environmental Protection Agency’s website shows I’m not doing everything recommended on their home office checklist. I’m sharing these time, money and environment saving tips so we can all make our workspaces a bit greener:
- Paper may well be the number one area of waste in most home offices. The EPA recommends buying recycled-content paper and sharing via electronic files whenever possible. I’m always trying to print less, but I still use more paper than I need to. The pile of scrap paper on my desk indicates I can reduce printing by at least half, if not more.
- Make double-sided copies. This simple, money-saving change is a no-brainer.
- Reuse file folders by relabeling them or folding them in the reverse direction.
- Pay your bills online. Our local power company no longer sends return envelopes if you pay online one time. Great idea.
- Cancel hard copy newspaper and magazine subscriptions in favor of online subscriptions. I actually prefer reading online and I don’t get newsprint on my hands.
- Remember when refillable ballpoint pens were the norm, rather than the exception? I do, so I should know better than to have an office full of throw away pens. At least I recycle them, but it would still be better to have a few good refillable pens. The same goes for pencils. Refillable mechanical pencils reduce waste.
- Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
- Refurbish or donate old furniture.
Finally, I recommend checking out the footprint calculator on the Earth Day 2012 website. It asks questions about such topics as your diet, the size of your house and your commuting habits. I tend to think of myself as earth-friendly, but after answering the lifestyle questions, I was informed that it would take 4.8 earths to maintain my lifestyle! That’s not exactly the footprint I want to have. Here’s the link to the calculator. http://www.earthday.org/footprint-calculator
After using it, I’m sure you’ll agree that we can all take steps to improve our relationship to Mother Earth. Happy Earth Day 2012.
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You’ve probably heard a lot about being prepared for a disaster before it strikes, but have you thought about disaster preparedness for your computer? A computer disaster preparedness plan is really just a few simple steps taken now so that your computer can be up and running as soon as possible after a disaster. Here are some straightforward tips to implement your plan:
- Backup all of your files. You need a plan in place to backup essential files on a regular basis, not just when you happen to think about it. There are numerous online backup services that will backup your files and store them at an off-site location. Some people prefer external hard drive storage, which is fine as long as the the backup is done regularly and the hard drive stored at another location. File backup should be done at least on a weekly basis, preferably more often.
- Document the make, model and serial number for your computer and the licensing information for your software. Be sure to note the version of each application you’re running on your computer. Include any warranty information, as well. If you’ve read my blog posts or watched the Taking Stock Home Inventory DVD, you may have already completed this essential documentation step. If not, it’s important that you do it now, as you’ll need this information if you file a claim with your insurance company. You should also make a list of user names and passwords for all your accounts and network settings. This information should be stored in a secure location outside your home or office.
- As with your home inventory, your computer disaster preparedness plan needs to be kept up-to-date with the latest information for your computer and software. Any new equipment or software should be added to the plan. If you’re using an online backup service, check it regularly to be sure it’s working on the schedule you set.
- Be pro-active in monitoring your computer and data backups. Use a surge protector for your computer. Make sure your anti-virus software is being updated constantly. Head off a computer disaster before it starts.
Finally, keep support phone numbers for tech support, internet service provider and network administrators with your stored documentation. These few simple steps can help get your computer up and running as quickly as possible. Preparation means peace of mind.
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Identity theft was a headline news story recently when third party credit card processor Global Payments, Inc. reported it had been hacked and that tens of thousands of credit card accounts may have been exposed to fraud. These little known third party processors serve as middle men between banks and merchants and process billions of credit card transactions a day. While you may not be able to protect yourself from a hack attack at a credit card processor, it’s a good time to review some steps you can take to protect yourself from identity theft. You may be aware of most of these tips already, but you can use them as a check list to make sure there’s nothing you’ve neglected to do to protect your identity from theft.
- Never give out personal information or credit card numbers over the phone unless you initiated the call and trust the person or company involved. A common scam is a phone call where the calller says you’ve won a prize but must reveal your credit card information to receive it. Needless to say, you should hang up on such a call immediately.
- Always take credit card and ATM receipts with you.
- Review your credit card statements carefully each month and report any unauthorized activity to the credit card company.
- Check your credit report at least once a year with the three major credit reporting bureaus. Some insurance companies have identity protection programs that offer access to your credit report as well as alerts when your credit is checked.
- Use a locked mailbox at your home or business. Otherwise, use a post office mailbox.
- Mail all checks at the post office or use electronic bill payment.
- Don’t carry your social security card, passport or birth certificate in your wallet. Never give out your social security number unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- Use a cross cut paper shredder to dispose of all paperwork containing your personal information. Be sure to use it for all unwanted pre-approved credit card offers.
Life is much more fun without the nightmare of identity theft. Be pro-active and enjoy your day.
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Spring is here and that means you may be heading outside to begin another season of gardening. Gardening is a great way to enjoy nature, get some exercise and beautify your yard and community. To ensure your satisfying time in the garden isn’t marred by an accident or injury, here are a few safety tips to keep in mind while working in the garden:
- Dress appropriately. To reduce your risk of skin cancer, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and a wide-brimmed hat. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
- If you’re working in an area with ticks, protect yourself against Lyme disease by tucking your pants into your socks and wearing high rubber boots.
- Wear gloves to protect against cuts and irritations.
- Drink plenty of water.
- If you’re taking any medications that may make you drowsy, do not operate machinery or climb ladders.
- Keep kids and pets away from any chemicals you’re using outside.
- Check safety devices on all tools and machinery before using. Make sure the work area is clear of rocks and debris before using machinery such as lawn mowers or garden tractors.
- Be sure electric tools are unplugged before clearing jams or making adjustments.
- Never use electric power tools in wet conditions.
- Check all extension cords. Cords should be rated for outdoor use and in good condition.
- Wear ear protection to avoid hearing loss when using noisy machinery.
- Make sure your tetanus/diptheria (Td) vaccination is up to date before heading outside to garden. Gardeners are particularly prone to tetanus infections, as they handle sharp tools and dig in the dirt where tetanus can be found. According to the CDC, all adults should get a Td shot every ten years.
While we’re on the subject of gardening safety, keep in mind that some common plants can be toxic to pets. Here’s a link to the ASPCA list of these plants: http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants. The ASPCA also has a 24 hour Emergency Poison Hotline: 1-888-426-4435.
Now that we’ve reviewed our gardening safety tips, let’s get outside and do some gardening. I look forward to seeing pictures of what you’re growing.
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Every year the nation’s poison control centers handle millions of calls about poison exposures. During National Poison Prevention week, the Environmental Protection Agency and its federal agency partners are urging parents and caregivers to take steps now to prevent accidental poisonings throughout the year.
According to poison control center data, over 150,000 calls to centers involved pesticides and disinfectants. Cosmetics, personal care items and pain medication were also common exposures to young children that resulted in thousands of calls to poison control centers.
There are steps you can take to reduce exposure to poisons for both humans and pets.
- Use the safest cleaning products that have the Design for the Environment (DfE) label. These are considered the least toxic products and help protect the environment.
- Always read product labels before use and follow directions completely.
- Do not leave products unattended while you are using them.
- Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing containers thoroughly after use, protecting both kids and pets.
- Never transfer pesticides to other containers that children may associate with food or drink. Also, original containers have labels with first-aid information you will need in case of accidental poisoning.
- When applying pesticides indoors or outdoors, remove children, pets and their toys from the area and do not let them back into the area until the product label information says that it is safe to do so.
- Never use illegal pesticides, as these products have not been tested by the EPA and they can pose a danger to human and animal health.
- Put the Poison Control Centers’ national helpline number near your home phone and into your mobile phone. It’s 1-800-222-1222.
The EPA has a Pesticide Poison Prevention checklist that you can download and use as a guide as you check your home room by room for pesticides and poisons. Here’s the link: http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/Publications/roombyroom-checklist.pdf
Preventing the tragic poisoning of a child or pet is what National Poison Prevention Week is all about.
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Do you know if an appliance you own has been subject to a recall? In the past five years, more than 15 million appliance units have been recalled for defects that could cause fires. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) claims that major appliances cause more than 150,000 residential fires each year. While many of these fires are caused by human error, a significant number of fires are caused by product defects. There have even been instances of recalls because appliances turned on by themselves. In March 2011, the CPSC launched SaferProducts.gov, a website where consumers can report problems with products and see product safety complaints posted by others.
Today’s appliances are far more complex than older models, with touchpad controls, electronic ignition and microprocessors common components of many new products. There’s more that can go wrong with these technologically advanced units compared to the less-complex designs of the past. In addition, many appliance parts are made overseas, where safety standards may not be closely monitored.
Here are some tips to protect yourself from appliance fires:
- Fill out registration cards that come with new appliances so you’ll be notified in the event of a recall.
- Sign up for recall alerts at www.recalls.gov. You can also check make and model numbers of appliances you already own for recalls. If you want to know if other consumers have had a problem with an appliance, visit www.saferproducts.gov.
- Check smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly. Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen.
- If you live in an older home, you may have to upgrade your electrical wiring to meet the power demands of modern appliances. We had to do this in a previous home but it was well worth the expense to know we had safe electrical wiring that could meet the demands of modern living.
- Never leave cooking unattended, not even in a microwave oven. Fires are commonly started in this way. Small appliances should be unplugged if you’re going to be away for an extended period of time.
- Clean grease from the range hood regularly. Grease builds up in range hood vents and can cause fires.
- Lint should be cleaned from your dryer often. Check dryer ducts and remove any lint buildup. Rigid metal ducts are recommended for use rather than flexible foil or plastic ducts, which can create pockets where lint can accumulate.
You can’t be too pro-active where the safety of your appliances and home is concerned. Live safely.
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We may not think about it much in this technological age of information overload, but a significant disaster and the resulting power outage can seriously compromise our ability to communicate. Anyone who endured the power outage a few months ago when both a 5.8 magnitude earthquake and Hurricane Irene hit the east coast may remember how difficult it was to contact family, friends, and even 911 during this time. However, there are practical steps you can take to improve your ability to communicate during, and immediately after, a disaster.
To prepare at home:
- Keep a car-phone charger as a back up for charging your cell phone and have additional charged phone batteries on hand.
- Although many of us have long since gotten rid of our corded phones, the FCC and FEMA both recommend keeping at least one non-cordless phone in your home if you have a traditional land line, as it will work even if you lose power.
- Your cell phone should contain “In Case of Emergency” (ICE) contacts that can be reached by emergency personnel in the event you are injured and unable to use your phone. (Make sure these ICE contacts are aware they are your emergency contacts.)
- Remember battery powered radios? They’re not as ubiquitous as they once were, but battery powered radios are useful for getting information during power outages. You should have a battery powered radio and spare batteries for it.
- Sign up to receive text alerts from state or local governments in the event of a disaster.
During a disaster or power outage:
- The FCC and FEMA recommend text messaging, email or social media for non-emergency communications during a disaster, as data based services are less likely to experience congestion than voice networks.
- To conserve your cell phone battery, reduce the screen brightness and close apps you are not using that draw power.
- If you charge your cell phone in your car, be sure your car is outside and not in the garage.
Lastly, don’t forget to rotate out your spare batteries from time to time to ensure you always have fresh spare batteries. I learned this the hard way when I discovered all our spare batteries were dead during a ten hour power outage last summer. Lesson learned. Now I’m prepared.
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