Labor Day 2020 Safety Tips

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Labor Day means cookouts, fireworks, and even campfires as people take advantage of one of the end of Summer.

It is definitely relaxing and fun to enjoy a backyard fire with friends and loved ones, but it’s important to make sure everyone involved stays safe.Here's a few easy fire protection and prevention tips:

Remember this list of four Labor Day fire safety tips:

1. Keep a bucket of water close by. On the off chance that something floating out of your fire catches nearby items on fire, you don't want to have to run to get water to put it out.  With water right there, you can quickly and safely extinguish the issue.
2. Don’t let barbecue grease accumulate. Built up grease and food on a grill grate has a high likelihood of igniting. Before, during, and after using your grill, clean the grate using a wire brush.
3. Inspect the area around your BBQ and campfire.  Make sure to keep as many flammable items away from your grill or fire as possible.  Paper plates and napkins catching on fire are a leading cause of fire damage during Labor Day weekend.  This is especially important if you are grilling near your house or on a deck.
4. Completely extinguish the fire when you are finished. Never leave a grill unattended after cooking, and never go to sleep without ensuring that it is fully out.  A breeze can send embers that are still hot into the air, and they could land on your roof or other parts of your home, leading to a fire.

If you happen to have any fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Hattiesburg at 601-544-0512 or 228-467-4450

20 Tips for a Safe Labor Day Weekend

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Labor Day weekend is here! Whether you are relaxing at the beach, hanging by the pool, or enjoying the outdoors, it's important to stay safe! Here are 20 safety tips from the American Red Cross.

DRIVING SAFETY

1. Be well rested, alert, and use your seat belts. Pay attention to speed limits and follow the rules of the road. Clean your headlights for driving at night.
2. Don’t drink and drive. Have a designated driver or call an Uber/Lyft.
3. Pay attention to the road & avoid distractions such as cellphones.
4. Use caution in work zones & look out for construction projects on the highways.
5. Don't drive too close to the person in front of you.

HEAT SAFETY

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if drinking caffeine or alcohol.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures.
3. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing. Beware the dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.
4. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, and make sure to take a break from the heat...especially if you plan on spending your weekend outdoors.
5. Postpone outdoor games and activities if you feel overheated or dehydrated.

BEACH SAFETY

1. If you plan to swim in the ocean, lake or river, be cautious that conditions are different than swimming in a pool. Wear a life jacket if needed.
2. Only swim in designated swimming areas. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.
3. Make sure to always swim with someone else. Don't push your limits, and make sure you have enough energy to swim back to shore.
4. Never dive headfirst. There's no way of knowing how deep the water actually is. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life. Water plants and animals can be dangerous.
5. If you are caught in a rip current, try not to panic. Signal to those on shore that you need assistance. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free, swim toward shore. If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

BE SAFE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

1. Take a First Aid/CPR course so that you will know what to do in case help is delayed. You’ll learn how to treat severe wounds, broken bones, bites and stings and more.
2. Know your groups level of ability in the environment around you. Plan accordingly. Sprains and falls are some of the most common accidents travelers may face.
3. Beware of dehydration. Make sure to bring enough water and stay hydrated.
4. Share your travel plans and locations with a family member, neighbor or friend.
5. Pack a First Aid Kit – be sure to include insect repellent, sunscreen and personal medications."

source: American Red Cross. link here: redcross.org

Coronavirus – What You Can Do

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Across the nation and the world as a whole, coronavirus is the top headline as everyone tries to comprehend the situation.

Experts are saying the virus seems to be hardest on the elderly and health-compromised populations, while children and young people are not affected as seriously. However, it is important we all do our part to help stop the spread of this illness.

Because the situation is changing rapidly, it is important to continue referring to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most up-to-date information. 

 In the meantime, it is important to follow these best practices:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and running water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home when you have a fever or present a risk of spreading illness to others.
• Maintain a proper social distance between people (3 feet).
• Shaking hands and other forms of social greeting that creates contact with other people is discouraged during this period.