tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68476348197448317272024-03-08T17:38:47.773-06:00Nebraska Safety CenterAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10333115326313636215noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-56134442065767477292013-07-03T09:27:00.002-05:002013-07-03T09:27:48.556-05:00Fireworks SafetyFireworks are a 4th of July Tradition.<br />
<br />
According to the U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”), there were an estimated
9,600 fireworks related injuries during the Fourth of July season in
2011. Most of these injuries would not have occurred if the fireworks
had been used under close adult supervision and if some basic safety
steps had been taken.<br />
<br />
The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers
these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in hopes
that injuries to consumers can be greatly reduced this season:<br />
<ul>
<li>Know your fireworks; Read the warning labels and performance descriptions before igniting.</li>
<li>Have a designated shooter to organize and shoot your family show.</li>
<li>Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.</li>
<li>Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.</li>
<li>Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.</li>
<li>Fireworks should only be used outdoors.</li>
<li>Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.</li>
<li>Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.</li>
<li>Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.</li>
<li>Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.</li>
<li>Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.</li>
<li>Never attempt to alter or modify consumer fireworks and use them only in the manner in which they were intended.</li>
<li>Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.</li>
</ul>
For more safety tips visit <a href="http://fireworkssafety.org/" target="_blank">FireworkSafety.org</a>. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-51020198423403784142013-06-26T11:05:00.004-05:002013-06-26T11:06:23.659-05:00National Safety Month - OverexertionDid you know - overexertion is the third leading cause of unintentional injuries in the United States, accounting for about 3.2 million emergency department visits.<br />
<br />
These injuries can easily be prevented by encouraging good ergonomic practices. The most common injuries resulting from overexertion are strains (tendons or muscles) and sprains (ligaments), especially of the lower back. These injuries usually involve moving materials, for instance, reaching for or lifting a load from one spot to another, transferring the weight of a load to a carrying position, or lowering a load to the ground or handing it to someone. <br />
<br />
As with all preventable injury, awareness and foresight are the best medicine. Make sure you’re familiar with any overexertion hazards present in your home or office. Causes of overexertion to watch for include: <br />
<ul>
<li>Heavy lifting</li>
<li>Bending at the waist (especially repeatedly, for a long time or with twisting)</li>
<li>Pushing/pulling</li>
<li>Long-term poor posture (while either sitting or standing)</li>
<li>Sitting while absorbing vibration through the body (as in truck driving) </li>
</ul>
<br />
These causes can be exacerbated by personal conditions like aging (with its loss of flexibility), poor physical condition and weight. <br />
<br />
Once you’re aware of its causes, the key to preventing overexertion is to assess the situation and to work smart and comfortably, not hard. Ergonomic tips for avoiding overexertion include: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Use good lifting techniques</li>
<li>Avoid twisting or overextending your reach</li>
<li>Properly position chairs and workstations</li>
<li>Use devices like dollies, hand trucks, and pallet jacks</li>
<li>Know your physical limits</li>
<li>Manage personal factors by reducing stress, staying hydrated, keeping fit, and getting a good night’s sleep.</li>
</ul>
More information is available from <a href="http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/index.html" target="_blank">OSHA.</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-45115300273701106842013-06-24T08:06:00.000-05:002013-06-24T08:06:58.197-05:00National Safety Month - ErgonomicsNational Safety Month, an annual observance to educate and encourage
safe behaviors around top causes of preventable injuries and deaths. This weeks theme focuses on Ergonomics.<br />
<br />
Ergonomics involves designing the job environment to fit the person and is<br />
important to take into consideration at work, but also while working on projects<br />
at home. It’s about learning how to work smarter and preventing conditions such as<br />
overexertion.<br />
<br />
Ergonomic conditions are disorders of the soft tissues, specifically of the muscles,<br />
nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage, blood vessels and spinal discs.<br />
These conditions are often caused by factors such as:<br />
<ul>
<li>Overexertion while lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, reaching or stretching</li>
<li>Repetitive motions</li>
<li>Working in awkward positions</li>
<li>Sitting or standing too long in one position</li>
<li>Using excessive force</li>
<li>Vibration</li>
<li>Resting on sharp corners or edges</li>
<li>Temperature extremes</li>
</ul>
Remember, these can occur from activities at work, such as working on an<br />
assembly line, using heavy equipment or typing on a computer. They also can<br />
result from activities at home like playing video games, helping someone move,<br />
participating in hobbies such as sewing or through home repair projects.<br />
<br />
<b>Know the signs</b><br />
Ergonomic conditions are best dealt with when they are caught early.<br />
Common symptoms include:<br />
<ul>
<li>Pain</li>
<li>Swelling</li>
<li>Numbness</li>
<li>Tingling</li>
<li>Tenderness</li>
<li>Clicking</li>
<li>Loss of grip strength</li>
</ul>
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to see your physician or<br />
an occupational physician as soon as possible to determine the cause of your pain.<br />
<br />
More information is available from <a href="http://sha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/" target="_blank">OSHA</a>. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-18472665377136461112013-06-21T08:56:00.001-05:002013-06-24T08:07:29.776-05:00Home Safety MonthIn addition to be National Safety Month - June is Home Safety Month.<br />
<br />
According to the CDC, more than 9 million children between birth and age 19 are seen for injuries each year in U.S. emergency departments, and injuries are the leading cause of death among children in this age group. <br />
<br />
Home Safety Month is an ideal time to learn about the top causes of child injury and the steps you can take to prevent them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/Burns/index.html">Burns</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Install and maintain smoke alarms in your home.</li>
<li>Develop and practice a family fire escape plan.</li>
<li>Set your water heater's thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.</li>
<li>Use safe cooking practices, such as never leaving food unattended on the stove.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/SafeChild/Drowning/index.html">Drownings</a> <br />
<ul>
<li>Install a four-sided isolation fence, with self-closing and self-latching gates, around backyard swimming pools.</li>
<li>Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and get recertified every two years.</li>
<li>Supervise young children at all times around bathtubs, swimming pools, and natural bodies of water.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/SafeChild/Falls/index.html">Falls</a> <br />
<ul>
<li>Use playground equipment that is properly designed and maintained, and that has a soft landing surface material below.</li>
<li>Use home safety devices, such as guards on windows that are located above ground-level, stair gates, and guard rails.</li>
<li>Supervise young children at all times around fall hazards, like stairs and playground equipment.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/Poisoning/index.html">Poisonings</a> <br />
<ul>
<li>Store medicines and other toxic products such as cleaning solutions in locked or childproof cabinets.</li>
<li>Put the poison control number, 1-800-222-1222, on or near every home telephone.</li>
<li>Dispose of unused, unneeded, or expired prescription drugs.</li>
</ul>
<br />
For more information visit the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/homesafety/">CDC Web-site. </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-41912574474303201432013-06-19T08:44:00.000-05:002013-06-19T08:49:58.841-05:00National Safety Month - Emergency Preparedness WeekNational Safety Month, an annual observance to educate and encourage
safe behaviors around top causes of preventable injuries and deaths. This weeks theme focuses on Emergency Preparedness.<br />
<br />
Your home or work routines can be disrupted with little or no warning by natural disasters, fires or other catastrophic events. It's important that you and your family are prepared as help may not always be available. During large community wide emergencies, first responders – police, fire and emergency medical services may be overwhelmed with numerous calls for help or even physically unable to reach your location due to blocked roads. <br />
<br />
<b>Plan Ahead </b><br />
Man-made and natural hazards occur routinely in the United States. On average, nearly 70 Federal disaster declarations are issued annually. It is important to identify and learn about the hazards most likely to occur in your community. Make a plan and share this information with your loved ones to prevent needless confusion and worry.<br />
<ul>
<li>Determine the safest course of action for you and your family for each hazard. In some situations, it may be better to stay where you are, also called <a href="http://www.ready.gov/shelter">sheltering in place</a>. This would be necessary during a tornado or hazardous chemical release, for example. Sometimes, <a href="http://www.ready.gov/evacuation-guidelines">leaving</a> an area to escape danger or evacuation is the safer course of action in situations such as a fire or hurricane. </li>
<li>Stay informed. Know how your community alerts citizens in an emergency. It may be an emergency broadcast on the radio or TV. You might hear a special siren, or get a telephone call, or emergency workers may go door-to-door. If available, sign up for your community's emergency text or email alert system.</li>
<li>Plan for your family’s comfort during disasters. Severe weather, earthquakes, flooding and other emergencies may cause utility outages. Prepare a kit that can meet your household’s basic needs (food, water, etc.) for 72 hours. Don't forget a kit for your car. </li>
<li>Practice with your family what to do in an emergency. Conduct regular drills for the most common hazards such as a fire, tornado or earthquake.</li>
<li>Know how to keep in touch. Local telephone service may be interrupted. Sometimes, it is easier to send a text message or contact a family member in another state. Each family member should know how to make contact to advise that they are safe.</li>
</ul>
More information is available at <a href="http://www.ready.gov/" target="_blank">Ready.gov.</a> <br />
<ul>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-50532732282163383092013-06-11T08:14:00.000-05:002013-06-19T08:46:12.945-05:00National Safety Month - Employee WellnessNational Safety Month, an annual observance to educate and encourage safe behaviors around top causes of preventable injuries and deaths. <br />
<br />
This week motivates the public to make educated decisions in regards to their health and wellness. With busy schedules and lifestyles, keeping the mind, body and soul healthy can be a major challenge. These tips to healthy living can help you meet that challenge:<br />
<ol>
<li> <b>Get Physical</b> – Exercise not only helps you build muscle, lose weight and gain self-confidence, but it's vital in maintaining a healthy heart. And, don't think you need to spend hours at the gym to achieve a new physical you. From strength training and cardio workouts, to walking the dog or taking the stairs – anything that gets your heart pumping will benefit your health.</li>
<li><b>Stress is a Mess</b> – Over time, stress can lead to serious health issues such as obesity, depression and even death. Wellness experts at Moen suggest that when you start seeing red, instead think blue – as in blueberries. Antioxidants found in the tasty fruit fight stress hormones. Also, don't forget to breathe. Inhaling a deep breath for 5 seconds then exhaling for another 5 seconds can help clear your mind and enhance blood circulation.</li>
<li> <b>LOL, Laugh Out Loud</b> – Build your immune system through laughter! Health-increasing hormones like endorphins are released into your body when you laugh. Additionally, laughter works your abdominal muscles. </li>
<li><b>Eat Healthy</b> – We know we should eat healthy, and with new online tools it’s a no-brainer. The new MyPyramid program (<a href="http://www.mypyramid.gov/">http://www.MyPyramid.gov</a>), developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, allows you to choose the ideal proportions or foods and food groups to eat according to your body size and structure. </li>
<li><b>Get Plenty of Zzzzzz’s</b> – Between work, family and extra activities, it’s sometimes difficult to get the necessary 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Be sure to avoid caffeine or exercise right before bed. Instead, try reading a book or mediating.</li>
<li><b>What’s Up, Doc? </b>– Going to the doctor only when you’re sick isn’t going to cut it. For both your physical and mental well-being, it’s wise to have a routine annual physical examination. Especially if your family has a history of health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, getting regular check-ups can help prevent or detect serious health issues.</li>
<li><b>Yoga-tta Do It </b>– Yoga, an ancient practice of stretching and breathing techniques, has become a popular exercise for both men and women. In addition to releasing positive energy, yoga prevents injuries, promotes flexibility and can add relief to a stressful day. In fact, according to the book, Real Men Do Yoga, PGA golfer David Duval practices yoga every day. So, if it’s good enough for professionals, it may be an excellent addition to your weekly stress-relief routine.</li>
<li><b>The Right to Recreation</b> – You schedule meetings and appointments each week, so why not schedule time for recreation? Be sure to set time each week for activities you enjoy. Whether it’s dinner with family and friends, or taking the phone off the hook and curling up with a good book, be sure to block out time on your calendar with activities that you enjoy and will rejuvenate you.</li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-38426033406543273242013-06-05T12:41:00.000-05:002013-06-05T12:41:07.493-05:00Sun Safety Week June 2 - 8 is Sun Safety Week.<br />
<br />
Did you know -Insect Repellants reduce sunscreen’s SPF by up to 1/3. When using a combination, use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.<br />
<br />
Other Sun Safety Tips Include: <br />
<ul>
<li>Over exposure to the
sun’s harmful rays can result in sunburns which increase your risk of
developing skin cancer. Therefore, check your local UV Index which
provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities
in ways that prevent overexposure to the sun. The <a href="http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html" target="_blank">UV Index forecast</a> is issued each afternoon by the National Weather Service and EPA.<br />
</li>
<li>Seek the shade whenever possible! The
sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. so remember the
shadow rule when in the sun: If your shadow is short it’s time to abort
and seek the shade!.</li>
<li>Don’t be deceived by color or cost of
Sunglasses! The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the
darkness of the lens or the price tag. While both plastic and glass
lenses absorb some UV light, UV absorption is improved by adding
certain chemicals to the lens material during manufacturing or by
applying special lens coatings. Always choose sunglasses that are
labeled as blocking 99-100% of UV rays. Some manufacturers’ labels will
say “UV absorption up to 400nm.” This is the same thing as 100% UV
absorption. Look before you choose!<b></b></li>
<li>
Sunburn doesn’t only happen during the summer!
Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can
increase your chance of sunburn. Protect yourself year round by using
sunscreen with protection from both UVA and UVB rays, and an SPF of 15
or greater. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts,
pants, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen on the exposed
areas of your skin whenever possible!<b> </b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Block the Sun, Not the Fun!</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-12967835415764701742013-06-03T14:35:00.000-05:002013-06-19T08:50:18.759-05:00National Safety Month - Preventing Slips, Trips and FallsNational Safety Month, an annual observance to educate and encourage
safe behaviors around top causes of preventable injuries and deaths. This weeks theme focuses on Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls.<br />
<br />
Did you know - Falls are by far the leading unintentional injury accounting for more than 8.7 million emergency room visits each year in the United States. <br />
<br />
Most falls are preventable. Many people attribute falls to being clumsy or not paying<br />
attention, but many risk factors exist. Risk factors include physical hazards in the<br />
environment, age-related issues and health conditions. Reduce your risk and find fall hazards<br />
in your workplace and home to prevent injuries and keep others safe round the clock.<br />
<br />
<b>Remove common fall hazards:</b><br />
• Keep floors and stairs clean and clear of clutter<br />
• Maintain good lighting both indoors and on outdoor walkways<br />
• Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas<br />
• Use non-skid throw rugs in potentially slippery places, like bathrooms<br />
• Install handrails on stairways, including porches<br />
• Use a sturdy step stool when climbing or reaching for high places<br />
• Clean up all spills immediately<br />
• Wear sensible footwear<br />
• Never stand on a chair, table or surface on wheels<br />
• Arrange furniture to provide open pathways to walk through<br />
• Periodically, check the condition of outdoor walkways and steps and repair as necessary<br />
• Remove fallen leaves or snow from outdoor walkways<br />
• Be aware that alcohol or other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter<br />
medicine, can affect your balance and increase risk of falling. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-15586323954020449352013-05-24T11:00:00.001-05:002013-05-24T11:01:24.822-05:00Memorial WeekendMemorial weekend is the traditional start to summer.<br />
<br />
As you are enjoying time outdoors with friends and family, please follow these practical safety tips from cooking, to swimming,
to boating. We want everyone to have a very SAFE Memorial Day Weekend!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Barbecue_Food_Safety/index.asp" target="_blank">BBQ Safety</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Never use a grill indoors including garages, overhangs and canopies</li>
<li>Grills must be at least 30 feet from any multifamily apartment dwelling.</li>
<li>When using a grill at your single-family home, homeowners should use
a 10-foot perimeter from anything combustible, including your house.</li>
<li>Do not allow children and pets to play near a grill.</li>
<li>Only use approved ignition fluids—never use gasoline to ignite a grill.</li>
<li>Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to douse a grill fire.</li>
<li>Inspect your grill before you ignite to ensure everything is in working order.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/watersafetyrecreational.html" target="_blank">Water Safety</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Know how to perform CPR on children and adults.</li>
<li>Always watch your children; never leave them unattended.</li>
<li>Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings.</li>
<li>Have a phone close by at all times.</li>
<li>If a child is missing, check the pool first.</li>
<li>Keep emergency numbers and rescue equipment (lifesavers, poles, etc.) poolside.</li>
<li>Never leave a child unsupervised in or around a swimming pool, even for a moment.</li>
<li>Tie up long hair securely to prevent it from getting caught in the drain.</li>
<li>Never rely solely on a personal floatation device to protect a child.</li>
<li>Never dive in water less than nine feet deep.</li>
<li>Refrain from horseplay around the pool area.</li>
<li>If the pool area looks "too deep" for you, you're probably right.</li>
<li>Homeowners should install four-sided isolation fencing, at least
five feet high, equipped with self-closing and self-latching gates that
completely surrounds the pool and prevents direct access from the house
and yard.</li>
<li> Homeowners should outfit the pool with an alarmed device that will notify residents when someone enters the pool area.</li>
<li>Air-filled swimming aids such as "water wings" are not substitutes for U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices.</li>
<li>Always wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation devices.</li>
<li>Children and adults should never swim alone; always use the "buddy" system.</li>
<li>Never rely on lifeguards to supervise your children.</li>
<li>Never underestimate the depth of a body of water.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.uscgboating.org/" target="_blank">Boating Safety</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Before you board any watercraft/boat, make sure, the pilot of that
ship has completed a boating safety course approved by the U.S. Coast
Guard.</li>
<li>Always wear a personal floatation device and make sure it's buckled.</li>
<li>Don't let children operate personal watercraft such as jet skis.</li>
<li>Never consume alcoholic beverages of any type while you are a pilot or passenger of a water vessel.</li>
<li>Refrain from swimming near a marina or dock connected to electrical service lines.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Usgresponse/Travel-Safely.shtml" target="_blank">Travel Safety</a><br />
<ul>
<li>Plan for extra time to get to your destination.</li>
<li>Get plenty of rest prior to driving on a long trip.</li>
<li>Check weather forecast for all major cities along your route.</li>
<li>Stay calm, road rage often leads to tragedy.</li>
</ul>
And remember to pay tribute to the U.S. men and women who died during military service, the real reason for the holiday. Please observe a minute of silence at 3:00 p.m., local time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-52440139362594638642013-05-20T10:54:00.000-05:002013-05-20T10:54:06.368-05:001st Annual Central Nebraska Kids Safety DayIt was great seeing so many of you at the 1st Annual Central Nebraska Kids Safety Day!<br />
<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-82540871597037145752013-05-17T11:10:00.000-05:002013-05-17T11:10:12.398-05:00Remember to Join us at the First Annual Central Nebraska Kids Safety Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjAMRwWrR0w/UYp8p1YygMI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5KTstmR608c/s1600/flyer.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjAMRwWrR0w/UYp8p1YygMI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5KTstmR608c/s1600/flyer.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></div>
May 18 is Safe Kids Day. Join us at the Buffalo County Expo Center for Safety FUN!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-73649682666162747692013-05-15T11:39:00.004-05:002013-05-15T11:39:57.073-05:00Good Morning Nebraska - Nebraska Safety Center May Update<a href="http://www.nebraska.tv/category/222068/video-landing-page?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=8880909" target="_blank">Good Morning Nebraska - Nebraska Safety Center May Update</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-79250703114089698322013-05-10T12:07:00.000-05:002013-05-15T13:52:30.024-05:00Kids Safety Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjAMRwWrR0w/UYp8p1YygMI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5KTstmR608c/s1600/flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjAMRwWrR0w/UYp8p1YygMI/AAAAAAAAAMo/5KTstmR608c/s1600/flyer.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></div>
May 18 is Safe Kids Day. Join us at the Buffalo County Expo Center for Safety FUN!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-298681292687235692013-05-08T11:35:00.001-05:002013-05-08T11:35:04.241-05:00National Bike to School Day<h2>
Today is National Bike to School Day!</h2>
Biking is a great way to get to school, unfortunately, more kids ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for
injuries related to biking than any other sport. Each year, 112 children
die from bike-related injuries and more than 289,000 nonfatal
bike injuries occur.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.safekids.org/safetytips/field_risks/bike" target="_blank">Safe Kids Worldwide</a> offers these tips to stay safe when biking:<br />
<ul>
<li>We have a simple saying: "Use your head, wear a helmet." It is
the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injury
and death from bicycle crashes.</li>
<li>Tell your kids to ride on the right side of the road, with traffic,
not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible. Use appropriate
hand signals and respect traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and
stoplights.</li>
<li>Teach your kids to make eye contact with drivers. Bikers should make
sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they
cross the street.</li>
<li>When riding at dusk, dawn or in the evening, be bright and use
lights – and make sure your bike has reflectors as well. It's also smart
to wear clothes and accessories that have retro-reflective materials to
improve biker visibility to motorists.</li>
<li>Actively supervise children until you're comfortable that they are responsible to ride on their own.</li>
</ul>
More tips are available at <a href="http://www.safekids.org/tip/bike-safety-tips" target="_blank">http://www.safekids.org/tip/bike-safety-tips</a> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-59288475947107179862013-05-06T13:48:00.003-05:002013-05-06T13:48:19.117-05:00Motorcycle Safety MonthMay is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and the U.S. Department of
Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
is reminding drivers of cars, trucks and buses to look out for, and
share the road with, motorcycle riders.<br />
<br />
According to NHTSA - despite historical declines in automobile fatalities, motorcycle
deaths have increased every year for the past 14 years except in 2009
when there was a 16 percent decline.<br />
<br />
<br />
To prevent motorcyclist's deaths and injuries, NHTSA offers the following safety recommendations:<br />
For motorcyclists:<br />
<ul>
<li>Never ride impaired or distracted.</li>
<li>Obey traffic laws, wear DOT-compliant helmets and other protective gear.</li>
<li>Make yourself visible by wearing bright colors and using reflective tape.</li>
<li>Avoid riding in poor weather conditions.</li>
<li>Use turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if you think no one will see it.</li>
<li>Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention to yourself.</li>
<li>Position yourself in the lane where you will be most visible to other drivers.</li>
</ul>
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Motorcycles">http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Motorcycles</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-34498454152199579982013-04-26T14:30:00.000-05:002013-04-26T14:30:39.159-05:00Bicycle SafetyWith warmer temperatures - kids and bikes can be seen in most neighborhoods.<br />
<br />
Biking is fun, healthy, and a great way to get around and be independent. But your bike is a vehicle, not a toy. Some bike crashes can cause serious injuries and most are related to the behavior of you (the bicyclist) or the motorist. There are a number of things you can teach your children to prevent a crash, and protect your brain if a crash occurs.<br />
<br />Remind your rider to:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Always wear a Bike Helmet</b>. Helmets protect your brain, and can save your life. </li>
<li><b>Make sure the bike fits the rider</b>. When standing over your bike, there should be 1 to 2 inches between the rider and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3 to 4 inches if using a mountain bicycle. The seat should be level front to back, and the height should be adjusted to allow a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended. The handlebar height should be at the same level with the seat.</li>
<li><b>Check Your Bike</b>. Before riding, inflate tires properly and check that the brakes work.</li>
<li><b>See and Be Seen. </b>Whether daytime, dawn, dusk, foul weather, or at night, make yourself visible. Wear neon, fluorescent or other bright colors when riding, to make yourselves the most visible to others. Also wear something that reflects light, such as reflective tape or markings, or flashing lights. Remember, just because you can see a driver doesn’t mean the driver can see you.</li>
<li><b>TWO HANDS!</b> Ride with two hands on the handlebars unless signaling a turn. Place books and other items in a bike carrier or backpack.</li>
<li><b>Watch for and Avoid Road Hazards. </b>Look for hazards that may make you crash, such as potholes, broken glass, gravel, puddles, leaves, and dogs.</li>
<li><b>Use Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication.</b> This includes eye contact with drivers, turn signals, pointing to road hazards for bicyclists behind you, and stating “passing on your left,” or “on your left.”</li>
<li><b>Avoid Riding at Night.</b> It’s harder for other road users to see bicyclists at dusk, dawn or nighttime. Use reflectors on the front and rear of the bike. White lights and red rear reflectors or lights are required by law in all States.</li>
</ul>
Visit <a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/Bicycles" target="_blank">NHTSA Bicycles</a> for more bicycle safety information. <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-26221514593927361632013-04-24T09:16:00.001-05:002013-04-24T09:16:07.782-05:00Keeping Yourself SafeAs recent news events illustrate - you cannot remove all the safety
hazards from your life, but you can reduce them.<br />
<br />
You can avoid major
hazards and prepare for emergencies by taking the following steps: <br />
<div class="tpsumboxinner_body">
<div id="tpsummary">
<ul>
<li> Keep emergency phone numbers by your telephones</li>
<li> Make a first aid kit for your home</li>
<li> Make a family emergency plan</li>
<li> Install and maintain smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors</li>
<li> Keep guns unloaded and locked up. Lock up the ammunition separately. </li>
<li> Follow the directions carefully when using tools or equipment</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-16340792034557000652013-04-17T09:26:00.000-05:002013-04-17T11:08:17.784-05:00Daydream Believer<br />
According the John Lennon -"You may say I'm a dreamer but I'm not the only one." According to recent research released by the <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/daydreaming-while-driving-more-dangerous-texting-claims-study-014558551.html" target="_blank">Erie Insurance Group</a>, daydreaming while driving may be is five times as dangerous than texting or talking on your phone.<br />
<br />
“The results were disturbing,” Erie Senior Vice President Doug Smith, told NBC News. According to Erie’s findings some 62 percent of all distracted
driving accidents in the U.S. each year that resulted in fatalities were
blamed on the seemingly innocuous act of being “lost in thought.” By
comparison, only <a href="http://www.whec.com/news/stories/s2991388.shtml?cat=566" target="_blank">12 percent of distracted driving fatalities resulted from driving while using mobile phones</a>.<br />
<br />
"Distracted driving is any activity that takes your eyes off the
road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off your primary task of
driving safely," Smith told NBC. "We looked at what law enforcement
officers across the country reported when they filled out reports on
fatal crashes and the results were disturbing. We hope the data will
encourage people to avoid these high-risk behaviors that needlessly
increase their risk of being involved in a fatal crash."<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-31761548360741516342013-04-12T10:45:00.000-05:002013-04-12T10:45:03.951-05:00Are you Using an Electronic Device while Driving?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">According to the </span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/About+NHTSA/Press+Releases/NHTSA+Survey+Finds+660,000+Drivers+Using+Cell+Phones+or+Manipulating+Electronic+Devices+While+Driving+At+Any+Given+Daylight+Moment" target="_blank">NHTSA</a> - </span></span><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;"><span style="font-size: 11.5pt;">data from the 2011 National Occupant Protection
Use Survey on Driver Electronics Use indicates that at</span> any given daylight moment
across America, there are about 660,000 drivers using cell phones or
manipulating electronic devices while driving.</span><br />
<br />
To prevent distracted driving, the Department of Transportation recommends that drivers:<br />
<ul>
<li>Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.</li>
<li>Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example. Talk with your teens about responsible driving.</li>
<li>Speak up when you are a passenger and your driver uses an electronic
device while driving. Offer to make the call for the driver, so his or
her full attention stays on the driving task.</li>
<li>Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts are the best defense against other unsafe drivers.</li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-792121851514500802013-04-10T08:35:00.002-05:002013-04-10T08:50:14.736-05:00ATV Safety Bulletin<!--[if !mso]>
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According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s <i>2011 Annual Report of ATV-Related Deaths and Injuries</i>, Nebraska ranked 36th for reported ATV deaths from 1982-2007; with 86 total deaths or an average of 5 deaths per year. Since 2007, the state has averaged 7.5 deaths per year for 30 ATV related fatalities. This upward trend is concerning.<br />
<br />
Through its ATV Safety Training Program, the Nebraska Safety Center hopes to reverse the upward trend in ATV fatalities through basic safety training for youth and adult riders. According to Dennis Holtz, CDL/AG Safety Pillar Manager, “As ATV use continues to rise in popularity both in the work place and as a recreation vehicle, safety education is important for all riders, especially youth in reducing fatalities.” Insurance costs may be less for riders that have taken an ATV safety course. Contact your insurance provider to see if this would apply to you. <br />
<br />
The Nebraska Safety Center is committed to providing affordable ATV safety training for all ages. Classes are being scheduled for this summer and dates, times, and locations will be announced soon. <br />
<br />
When riding an ATV remember these GOLDEN RULES: <br />
<ul>
<li>Always wear protective gear – especially a helmet – when riding ATVs. Many ATV injuries are head injuries. Wearing a helmet may reduce the severity of these injuries. Select a helmet that is certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and/or the Snell Memorial Foundation. Wear over-the-ankle boots, goggles, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt to protect against cuts, abrasions, and other injuries from rocks, trees, and other debris. </li>
<li>Do not drive ATVs with a passenger or ride as a passenger. ATVs are designed for interactive riding – drivers must be able to shift their weight freely in all directions, depending on the situation and terrain. Interactive riding is critical to maintaining safe control of an ATV especially on varying terrain. Passengers can make it difficult for drivers to control the ATV. </li>
<li>Do not drive ATVs on paved roads. ATVs are difficult to control on paved roads. Collisions with cars and other vehicles also can be deadly. According to the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety, since 2004, 26 fatalities have occurred on public roadways. </li>
<li>Do not permit children to drive or ride adult ATVs. Nationwide, children are involved in about one-third of all ATV-related deaths and hospital emergency room injuries. Most of these deaths and injuries occur when a child is driving or riding on an adult ATV. Children under 16 on adult ATVs are twice as likely to be injured as those riding youth ATVs. </li>
<li>Do not drive ATVs while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time and judgment, two essential skills for safe ATV use. </li>
<li>Take a hands-on safety-training course. Formal training teaches drivers how to control ATVs in typical situations. Drivers with formal, hands-on ATV training have a lower injury risk than drivers with no formal training.</li>
</ul>
For more information on ATV Safety Courses offered by the Nebraska Safety Center, contact Dennis Holtz (308) 865-8562 or <a href="mailto:holtzde@unk.edu">holtzde@unk.edu</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-59026286679308519732013-04-08T10:57:00.001-05:002013-04-08T10:57:17.900-05:00Distracted Driving AwarenessThink sending or receiving a text while driving isn't a big deal? After all you only take your eyes off the road for few seconds.<br /><br />Try this little test.<br />Walk across your office. How long did that take you? 4 maybe 5 seconds.<br />Now close your eyes and walk the same route. No problem right - you know know where everything is and can navigate your office blindfolded. Now walk in a busy public area for 4 - 5 seconds. Did you bump into furniture? Another person? Have a near miss? Did you feel uncomfortable?<br /><br />When operating a motor vehicle at 55mph - you will drive the length of a football field in 4.6 seconds. Do you really think it is no big deal to drive down the highway, blind for the length of a football field?<br /><br />
Remember the fight to end distracted driving starts with you. Join the Nebraska Safety Center and make the commitment to drive phone-free today!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-77976947262777952452013-04-05T13:46:00.004-05:002013-04-05T13:52:13.795-05:00Distracted Driving<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]-->How many times in the last week did you use your cell phone, eat a snack, change the radio station, or do any other task while you were driving? For most of us, driving isn’t our only focus when we’re behind the wheel.<br />
<br />
“Distracted driving” was the 2009 word of the year according to Webster’s Dictionary. Unfortunately, Distracted Driving is no passing fad. Distracted driving has become a trend with deadly, real consequences. According to data collected by the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety, in 2011, 11% of all crashes involved a Distracted Driver. <br /><br />The goal of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) “One Text or Call Could Wreck it All” campaign is to help drivers understand that texting, cell phone use, and other distractions behind the wheel can have dangerous consequences.You can find more information about the campaign at <a href="http://www.distraction.gov/">www.distraction.gov</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vPXo9jagnKo/UV8b5xbCntI/AAAAAAAAALo/apDHgW9-g1M/s1600/Distracted_72RGB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vPXo9jagnKo/UV8b5xbCntI/AAAAAAAAALo/apDHgW9-g1M/s1600/Distracted_72RGB.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-27224377881899402182013-04-04T08:33:00.000-05:002013-04-04T08:33:51.542-05:00Alcohol Free Weekend: April 5-7, 2013<span style="font-weight: normal;">The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) has decalred the first weekend of Arpil (April 5-7, 2013) to be </span><b>Alcohol-Free Weekend</b>.<br />
<br />
The goal of this weekend is to raise public awareness about the use of alcohol and how it may be
affecting individuals, families, businesses and our communities. <br />
<br />
During
<b>Alcohol-Free Weekend</b>, NCADD extends an open invitation to all
Americans to engage in three alcohol-free days. Any individual or family
member who finds it difficult to get through the 72-hour experiment is
urged to contact local <a href="http://www.ncadd.org/index.php/affiliate-network/find-an-affiliate">NCADD Affiliates</a>, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon Family Groups to learn more about alcoholism and its early symptoms.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-88136975149421018342013-04-01T08:56:00.002-05:002013-04-01T08:56:38.471-05:00Distracted Driving Awareness MonthDistracted driving is an epidemic on America's roadways. We see it
every day: Drivers swerving in their lanes, stopping at green lights,
running red ones, or narrowly missing a pedestrian because they have
their eyes and minds on their phones instead of the road. Yet, people
continue to assume that they can drive and text or talk at the same
time.<div class="highlightText heavyFont">
<br />
<b>What is Distracted Driving? </b>Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. <i>All</i> distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types of distractions include:</div>
<div class="lightFont">
</div>
<ul class="non-link-list">
<li>Texting</li>
<li>Using a cell phone or smartphone</li>
<li>Eating and drinking</li>
<li>Talking to passengers</li>
<li>Grooming</li>
<li>Reading, including maps</li>
<li>Using a navigation system</li>
<li>Watching a video</li>
<li>Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player</li>
</ul>
Because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive
attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction. <br /><br />
Throughout the month of April we will highlight the facts about distracted driving and how YOU can help end this epidemic.<br />
<ul class="non-link-list">
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6847634819744831727.post-44760898547763919272013-03-29T09:22:00.003-05:002013-03-29T09:23:09.832-05:00National Severe Weather Awareness WeekNational Severe Weather Awareness Week comes to an end - <span class="userContent">Did you know - </span><br />
<ol>
<li><span class="userContent">Tornadoes cause an average of 70 fatalities and 1,500 injuries in the U.S. each year. </span></li>
<li><span class="userContent">Tornadoes may appear nearly transparent until dust and debris are
picked up or a cloud forms within the funnel. The average tornado moves
from southwest to northeast, but tornadoes have been known to move in
any direction.</span></li>
<li><span class="userContent">Straight-line winds are responsible for most thunderstorm wind <span class="text_exposed_show">damage.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Lightning occurs in all thunderstorms; each year lightning strikes the United States 25 million times. </span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Most lightning fatalities and injuries occur when people are caught
outdoors in the summer months during the afternoon and evening.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000°F--hotter than the surface of the sun!</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet; a depth of two feet will cause most vehicles to float.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Most flash flood fatalities occur at night and most victims are people who become trapped in automobiles.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Hail causes more than $1 billion in damage to property and crops each year.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Large hail stones fall at speeds faster than 100 mph.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">Finally, according the the <a href="http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm" target="_blank">US Department of Transportation</a></span></span>, on average, there are over 6,301,000 vehicle crashes each year.<br />
<ul>
<li>24% of these crashes—approximately 1,511,000—are
weather-related. Weather-related crashes are defined as those crashes
that occur in adverse weather (i.e., rain, sleet, snow, and/or fog) or
on slick pavement (i.e., wet pavement, snowy/slushy pavement, or icy
pavement). </li>
<li>On average, 7,130 people are killed and over 629,000 people
are injured in weather-related crashes each year. <br />(Source: <i>Fourteen-year averages from 1995 to 2008 analyzed by Noblis, based on NHTSA data)</i>. </li>
</ul>
The vast majority of most weather-related crashes happen
on wet pavement and during rainfall:<br />
<ul>
<li>75% on wet
pavement</li>
<li>47% and forty-seven during rainfall </li>
</ul>
A much smaller
percentage of weather-related crashes occur during winter conditions:<br />
<ul>
<li>15 % of crashes happen during snow or sleet </li>
<li>13% occur on icy pavement </li>
<li>11% of
weather-related crashes take place on snowy or slushy pavement</li>
<li>3% happen in the presence of fog<br />(Source: <i>Fourteen-year averages from 1995 to 2008 analyzed by Noblis, based on NHTSA data)</i>.<br />
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0