June is National Safety Month, and Capital Insurance Service wants to remind you of certain precautions that can be taken to avoid injuries when at home, at work, or taking part in all the warm weather fun. From pool parties, garage sales to at-home do-it-yourself projects, there’s something to look forward to for just about everyone this summer. Unfortunately, along with these highly anticipated activities and events often comes the need to exercise caution in order to avoid tragic accidents and hazardous materials.
Picnics, barbecues, parades and fireworks displays, especially around the 4th of July. The National Safety Council advises that the best way to safely enjoy this 4th of July is to watch a public fireworks display conducted by professionals. However, if fireworks are legal where you live and you decide to use them, be sure to follow these important safety tips:
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision.
• Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from onlookers, houses and flammable materials.
• Light one device at a time; maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never ignite devices in a container.
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks; douse and soak them with water and discard them safely.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire.
Did You Know?
- More than 1 in 5 drowning victims are children ages 14 and under.
- Swimming pools can contain germs that cause recreational water illnesses if proper precautions are not taken.
- Asbestos is not banned in the United States and may be present in your home.
- Injuries are a leading cause of disability for people of all ages – and they are the leading cause of death for Americans ages 1 to 44.
We know things get busy when you’re knee-deep in a home renovation project, or preparing your house for a birthday or graduation party. To help you stay safe and sane, we’ve created a handy at-home Summer Safety Checklist that we hope helps!
- Check batteries on all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Check and clear all vents including heating/cooling ducts, lint trap on dryer, chimney flue, etc.
- Maintain all gutters, downspouts, and check foundations for leaks, cracks and water damage.
- Check for signs of asbestos around the home (popcorn ceilings broken or damaged drywall in homes/offices built prior to 1980)
- Call a professional immediately if suspected asbestos or lead-based paint found.
- Make sure there are at least 2 working fire extinguishers or one per floor in home.
- Keep all toxic items such as medicine and cleaning products properly stored and kept away from pets and children.
- All pools/hot tub have proper covers and safety rails.
- Check that all electrical outlets are covered and cords are intact and out of reach to pets and children.
- Put together a disaster preparedness plan and kit, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, etc.
