The U.S. Coast Guard’s most recent recreational boating report (pdf) counted 4,291 accidents that involved 658 deaths, 2,629 injuries and approximately $46 million of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents. Sadly, only 14 percent of the boat operators in fatal accidents had formal safety training, and 81 percent had no training […]
safety
Posted inAt Home
12 Holiday Safety Tips for a No-Worries Noel
The fun, festive activities during the holiday season make it a favorite time of year for many people. At the risk of sounding like a Grinch, though, all that festivity can lead to unintentional safety hazards. For example, some 30 percent of all home fires and 38 percent of home fire deaths occur over December, […]
Posted inAt Home
Stay Safe while Using a Portable Generator During Inclement Weather
For many people, inclement weather can be frightening — especially when the wind is blowing hard, the rain is pouring and the trees are rustling. To weather a storm safely, it’s important to remember certain safety tips and proper use of tools. Portable generators can serve many purposes after severe weather strikes, including providing power […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Fire Smoke Stretches Across the Northwest — How to Stay Safe
Just as we thought the haze and smoke in the air was due to clear out last week, a fresh wave enveloped us this week. It’s not just a problem in the Puget Sound region — the entire Pacific Northwest and much of the West is experiencing unhealthy air quality. That means you may have […]
Posted inAt Home
Tips for Operating Your Generator Safely this Winter
Generators are critical during severe weather events, when the power can go out, as well as bringing power to remote job sites and in disaster recovery and emergencies. “Not having power when you need it is frustrating, so a generator can provide emergency backup power at a reasonable cost. But, it’s important to follow all […]
Posted inAt Home
Simple Seasonal Safety Tips
It may be the most wonderful time of year, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Along with the cooking and decorations that make the season magical, the holidays present risks for home fires and burns. An independent survey conducted by Shriners Hospitals for Children found that many Americans do not follow […]
Posted inAt Home
Fall Prevention Tips to Keep You Independent as You Age
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90 percent of seniors want to remain in their own homes as they get older. The catch phrase for this wish is “aging in place.” It is the simple concept of gracefully living out one’s days in the comfort of their own home. Many seniors […]
Posted inAt Home
12 Tips to Help Home and Business Owners Prepare Ahead of Storms and Floods
The preparations you make now, ahead of storms or floods, can help you recover faster and stay safe during cleanup. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association representing small engine, utility vehicle and outdoor power equipment manufacturers and suppliers, reminds home and business owners that it’s best to get ready before a […]
Posted inAt Home
Planning for Safety in Your Remodeling Project
It’s exciting to think about a remodeling project and all the fun things you will do. And while safety is not something that most people would say is unimportant, you’d be surprised at how many ways safety can become an issue. A first step is permitting. Simple enough, but many people often see building permits […]