Recent General Posts

Navigate the Ice and Snow Safely

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

  1. Plan ahead, give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. 
  • Traffic moves slowly in snowy conditions.
  • Give yourself extra time--don't assume a clear path for driving and walking will be available.
  1. Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. 
  • Footwear made of rubber and neoprene composite provide better traction than plastic and leather soles.
  • Wear flat-soled shoes.  Avoid shoes with heels.
  • Products are available with abrasive soles or cleats that provide special traction for walking on snow and ice. [Remember to remove when entering buildings.]
  1. Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles, climbing or descending stairs, entering or leaving buildings. 
  • Move slowly.
  • Remove snow/water from shoes when entering buildings.
  • Use handrails for support.
  • Try to keep your center of gravity over your support leg.
  • Use car for support.
  • Keep your hands out of your pockets.
  1. Walk on designated walkways as much as possible. 
  • Don’t take shortcuts over snow piles or areas where snow and ice removal is not feasible.
  • Look ahead when you walk. A sidewalk completely covered with ice may require travel along its grassy edge for traction.
  • Don’t text or read while walking.
  1. Walk safely on snow or ice.
  • Take short steps or shuffle for stability.
  • Bend slightly forward and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over your feet as much as possible.
  • Keep your hands out of your pockets.
  • Be prepared to fall. If you fall, fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip and shoulder.  Avoid using outstretched arms to brace yourself.
  • Bend your back and head forward to avoid hitting your head against the ground.

Back to School Safety

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Home Safety Tips For Parents with Children going Back To School

Home security and safety are especially important if children will be alone at home for any length of time. Walking home alone, entering an empty house, and staying safe at home can be a challenge. But with guidance, rules, and helpful products, parents can help children stay safe at home.

  • Teach kids to lock the door and not open it for anyone: Children should know how to properly lock all doors. Teach them that they should never open the front door while they’re home alone, even for deliveries or mail.
  • Show kids how to use the alarm system: Make sure children know how to properly use the alarm system, both arming and disarming it. You should also show them how to hit the panic button and what to do if there’s an emergency.
  • Plan a safe route to school: Work with your child to plan a direct route to school. Avoid as many street crossings as possible as well as open fields, vacant lots, and desolate areas. 
  • Help children memorize important numbers: Teach kids their home address, their home number, your cell phone number, and the number of a neighbor who can help. You should also teach them how to use 911 in an emergency.
  • Teach children about stranger danger: Make sure kids know not to talk to strangers on their way home from school, even if they seem friendly or helpful. 
  • Make an emergency plan for fire: Work on an emergency plan together and determine how your child will exit in case there’s a fire. 
  • Keep communication open: Ask your child to text or call when they get home each day. Encourage them to call you if there’s any problem at all so you can help.
  • Have a plan for lost keys: Even responsible children can lose keys. Choose a destination for a spare key or leave one with a close neighbor or family member.
  • Establish rules for safety at home: Determine whether children will be allowed to use the stove or oven when home alone, rules for visitors or leaving the house, even screen time. Set kids up for a safe afternoon at home by establishing your expectations.

Stay Safe and Have a Wonderful School Year from your local SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles!