New Year’s Eve Safety Tips from Cell Phone Sally

It’s time to celebrate the beginning of a new year! Can you believe it is almost 2015 already? While this is a wonderful time to celebrate, it is also a great time to remember the importance of safety so that you can enjoy your New Year’s Eve to the fullest!

Here are some great safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy ringing in the New Year:

·         If you plan on drinking, please make sure you have a designated driver. Even if you have only had a couple drinks, it is never a good idea to drive. Practice safety first!

·         If you will be attending a party or an event where there will be a lot of people, never let your drink out of your sight. You never know if someone will tamper with your drink so keep it in your sight or in your hands at all times.

·         If you live in a city, then you most likely cannot use fireworks due to safety issues and hazards. Why not leave the fireworks to the professionals and go see a display put on in your local area?

·         Safety is always in numbers so whatever you decide to do, make sure you are not alone. Staying in groups will ensure you have a great evening!

·         If you have pets, bring them inside tonight because fireworks can be very frightening for them.

·         And of course, remember to have fun! And if you find yourself in an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.

 Cell Phone Sally wishes you a Happy New Year! May 2015 be memorable for you as well as for 9-1-1 public education- Cheers!

Practice Safety First When Traveling for the Holidays

Many people have begun or will begin traveling to different cities, states and sometimes countries, to spend time with their loved ones this holiday season. While it is the most wonderful time of year, it is almost an important time of year to practice safety first!

Here are some quick tips on keeping you and your family safe as you travel.

Traveling Away From the Home

• Make sure all your doors and windows are locked in the home before leaving.
• If you have an alarm, make sure to turn it on while you are out of town.
• Have a neighbor or family member watch your house, pick up your mail and even park in your driveway periodically, if possible.
• Leave a radio or television on so the house sounds occupied.
• Make sure expensive items or gifts in your home are not visible through windows or doors.
• If you have a Christmas tree, make sure it is placed in water or wet sand to keep it fresh.

On the Road

• Keep all doors locked and windows closed when you are away from your vehicle. This will help prevent thieves from easy access to your valuables.
• Never leave your car unoccupied while it is running. (And as a reminder, don’t leave children unattended in the car either for their safety too)
• When leaving your vehicle, make sure all valuables are out of sight. If you have to leave something in your car, put it in the trunk.
• Always remember to wear your seatbelt and practice cautious driving, especially if road conditions are bad.
• Never drink and drive.
• If you are involved in an accident, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1 for help.

Whatever your plans may be for the holidays, we hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones. Remember: practice safety first and we will see you all again next year in 2015! 

 

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

As the weather becomes colder throughout the country, we are reminded of the risks of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning that can occur especially during this time of year. Also known as the quiet killer, CO comes from fumes produced by furnaces, vehicles, portable generators, stoves, lanterns, gas ranges, or burning charcoal or wood. When the fumes become trapped inside the home, it can potentially cost lives.

Now is the time to make sure your homes are equipped with CO detectors. (Don’t forget to replace the batteries on a regular basis- at least once a year!) More than 500 people die each year due to unintentional CO poisoning. By recognizing and preventing CO poisoning, you can help lower the number of unintentional deaths and help save lives.

The scary thing about CO poisoning is that the symptoms are very similar to the flu. Because of this, many people do not realize they have had CO poisoning. The most common symptoms are: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

What can you do to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

·         Have your heating and water system (or anything serviced by gas) checked once a year for any problems by a qualified technician.

·         Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors in your home and change the batteries at least once a year. 

·         Please seek medical attention or call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.

·         Do not use camp stoves, generators, grills or anything gasoline or charcoal-burning inside the home or garage.

·         Never leave a vehicle running in the garage.

·         Never heat your home with a gas oven

·         Do not burn anything in a stove or fireplace without ventilation.

Remember, carbon monoxide poisoning IS preventable! Make sure to protect yourself and your family by being prepared and aware. If you think you might have carbon monoxide poisoning, please call the Poison Control Network at 1-800-222-1222. If someone is having life threatening reactions, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1. For more information on carbon monoxide poisoning, please visit the CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm.