Safeguarding your home

August 9, 2009 Everyone wants to think of their home as 'safe,' but are there things they may be overlooking?
Certainly, there will always be hidden dangers, but luckily with a little extra attention, they can be easily addressed. And, it not just about avoiding hazards but being prepared for safety, in case you find yourself in an emergency.Q - Everyone wants to think of their home as 'safe,' but are there things they may be overlooking?

Is it just at home where people need to be concerned?
No. It's important that everyone, but especially parents, consider their own personal safety and the safety of their family wherever they go. To help, I've created a list of my top-10 recommended safety items to have on-hand both at home and while you're on the go.

As we're all being more budget conscious these days, are these things that will set people's wallets back?
Not at all. In fact, these simple tools won't set your family back much money, at all.

1. Spill resistant mug for hot beverages. It can help avoid a potential burn in the car or at home around a curious child. It's also eco-friendly.

2. Kitchen hand soap dispenser or hand sanitizer for "on the go". Hand soap in the kitchen will help remind you to wash your hands often - it is especially helpful after handling food, pets or after coming in from outdoors.

3. Bandages and antiseptic wipes. Always keep a first-aid kit on hand - every scrape is an opening for possible infection.

4. Digital instant-read food thermometer. A food thermometer is a must-have at home and at your next BBQ, to know if food is truly cooked-through.

5. Glow in the dark sticks (or flashlights). Provides a nonflammable, non-spark producing, portable light. Perfect if you get stuck outside in the dark for any reason.

6. An emergency contact list. Include the number of a contact living outside of the emergency area - you are more likely to connect with a long-distance number outside the area than with a local number.

7. Fully charged cellular phone. It is essential to keep a cell phone in your car in case of emergency.

The following items are important childproofing tools that can be conveniently used when traveling:

8. Empty toilet paper roll. A great way to quickly test small items that can present a choking hazard.

9. Door knob cover. Help prevent children from entering rooms and other areas with possible dangers.

10. Electrical outlet covers. Choose the bigger individual outlet caps, ones that cannot turn into choking hazards if pulled out.

Bonus tip: If traveling with a baby, bring your own crib sheet as accommodations may only have larger sheets, which could be a hazard.

For more on this, visit www.thesafetyexpert.com.


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