Public Safety

SPRING DRIVING AND SAFETY TIPS...

Anti-Lock brakes, etc:

Even though we are sailing into Spring, unless you drive a tank, you still need to be conscientious of road conditions.
Anti-lock brakes, four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive are great technological advances to the automobile. But please!
Do not be lulled into a false sense of security thinking these features are infallible.

They are, no doubt, valuable tools in many weather conditions including rain and snow. But drive as if you do not have any of these features….. If ever needed, they just may be a life-saving surprise.

Buckle-Up!
This is an old one, but it still rings true. Again, driving conditions can deteriorate in the coming months (snow, rain) and it’s a good time to remind ourselves how important seat belts can be. As the picture to the right indicates, we would never consider
leaving a child un-strapped. So why even think about not buckling up ourselves as well as any other adults in the car. It’s not only the law in most states,it’s just smart!!

You’re prepared, s your car?

We know you are prepared… coat, hat, gloves, etc. But what about your
car? It’s not just a matter of inconvenience, but it could be just the
thing to keep yourself safe and secure! Always make sure the following
are in good working order.

Battery
Antifreeze
Wipers and windshield washer
fluid
Ignition system
Thermostat
Lights
Flashing hazard lights
------------------------------

ICE

Many of you may already know that putting the entry “ICE” in your cell phone contact list is not for ordering a chilled beverage
while on the go. If you do not know what it means, however, please read on. ICE is an acronym for “In Case of Emergency” You program the number of your emergency contact into your cell phone under the
name “ICE”.

In the event that you become incapacitated in anyway, co-workers, first responders and hospitals will immediately know who to notify. It does not matter who that person is or what their relationship is to you. They only appear as ICE in your address book. You decide on the contact number. In some newer phones, there is a default ICE entry already on the contact list. Just remember, the phone must be with you or in some way identifiable as yours. Also, please let your ICE contact know that you have chosen them for emergency contact.

Nobody wants to be the one to dial, or receive, a mistaken ICE call in an emergency situation!

Catalytic Thieves!!!

A Catalytic Converter is a device used to reduce the toxicity of emissions from auto exhaust. Introduced in 1975, they are now required to be installed in all passenger vehicles operating
in the United States to comply with the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The Catalytic Converter helps reduce toxins by converting emissions to less toxic substances before they exit the vehicle exhaust.
Catalytic Converters contain the precious metals platinum,
palladium and rhodium.

They have become a target for thieves. Late model Toyota trucks, SUV's and of course Jeeps are commonly targeted because of their high ground clearance, which results in easy access to the converters.

As a reminder, if you observe any suspicious activity report
it immediately to the police.

What to do in a Kitchen Fire

Kitchen Fire Safety - Good reminder for everyone.....

This is a dramatic video (30-second, very short) about how to deal with a common kitchen fire ... oil in a frying pan. Please read the following introduction and then watch the show ... It's a real eye-opener!!

At the Fire Fighting Training school they would demonstrate this with a deep fat fryer set on the fire field. An instructor would don a fire suit and using an 8 oz cup a t the end of a10 foot pole toss water onto the grease fire. The results got the attention of the students.

The water, being heavier than the oil, sinks to the bottom where it instantly becomes superheated. The explosive force of the steam blows the burning oil up and out. On the open field, it became a thirty foot high fireball that resembled a nuclear blast. Inside the confines of a kitchen, the fire ball Hits the ceiling and fills the entire room.

Also, do not throw sugar or flour on a grease fire. One cup creates the explosive force of two sticks of dynamite. This is a powerful message----watch the video and don't forget what you see. Tell your whole family about this video. Or better yet, send this to them.

Click Here for Windows Media Player Video

From the BGPG - Updated 11/14/2007

Snow Ordinance: The Town of Blooming Grove snow ordinance is in effect.
From November 1st through April 15th parking on Town Roads is prohibited.
Please be aware that some Town roads have prohibited parking all through
the year as well. For more information on this and other notices here please visit
the "Public Information" link at: http://www.bloominggrovepolice.com/

Motor Vehicle Equipment: Any vehicle operating on a public highway with
studded tires must have those tires removed by April 30th. Studded tires
are prohibited from May 1st to October 15th inclusive, according to section
375-35a

Salisbury Mills Fire Department Open House Update: The open house was
a great success, the weather broke just in time so that all the scheduled events
could take place as planned. Some photographs of the event can be by clicking on
the link below.

Speed Limit Change: The speed limit on Clove Road known also as
(County Route 27) has been decreased. Clove Road runs from NYS Route 208
to Orrs Mills Road.
The new posted speed limit for the entire length is now 45 mph.

Speed Limit Change: The speed limit on Woodcock Mountain Road,
from Route 208 to Clove Road has been reduced from 45 mph to 40 mph.
New speed limit signs have been posted the entire length of the roadway.

Tips to use when traveling

When you travel, know where you are going and how to get there and back. Check for construction detours; for longer trips, get a weather forecast.

If traveling out-of-state, most state law enforcement agencies provide road-and-highway information; check to see what conditions they report before leaving. Inform a family member where you will be and when to expect you back; give them your route if they don't know it.

Travel and conduct your business during daylight hours if possible. Lock doors and windows when getting into your car and keep them locked while driving.

If you have access to a cellular telephone, carry or take it.

If possible, know the emergency cell codes for the area you're in.

Click here for a state-by-state listing of
highway-related cell phone codes.

When driving, keep doors locked and windows rolled up. Maintain at least half a tank of fuel, and keep vehicle in good repair.

If planning a "road trip" over the holidays, have your vehicle serviced and checked out sufficiently far ahead to allow for repairs if needed. Don’t forget to have the mechanic check your spare tire and all fluid levels along with the other preventive maintenance procedures.

Consider keeping spare fuses and a "breakdown kit" in your vehicle at all times. Breakdown kits may be purchased from a variety of sources, or you can assemble your own at any auto parts or hardware store using a commercial version as a guideline.

Minimally, a "breakdown kit" should include: a thermal blanket/bag and a gallon of water
a "HELP" sign/flag and flares/reflectors
a flashlight (check batteries semi-annually)
duct tape

Also consider carrying:
a set of jumper cables, a tire gauge, and work gloves
a few hand tools (pliers, screwdrivers, Allen wrenches)
some rope and at least one bungee cord
towels and a roll of toilet paper (in a plastic bag)
a small 12-volt tire-inflator
an empty (new, never used) one-gallon gas can
change for a payphone and a pair of comfortable shoes
a cheap/disposable rain coat/suit/poncho

All these items can fit in a small or medium size gym/duffle bag or a box and kept in your vehicle's trunk, back-seat floorboard, or other storage area in the vehicle. Keep it updated, but never remove it from your vehicle.

In addition to your basic "breakdown kit" you should also have a basic first aid kit in your vehicle at all times.

Also consider purchasing and mounting a small ABC-rated portable fire extinguisher in your vehicle. Buy one with a "mount" designed for use in vehicles. Portable fire extinguishers should be securely "mounted" in the vehicle to prevent rolling and damage. The extinguisher should be visible and easy to reach. Mount the bracket on a strong, stable surface. It can be mounted in any sloping, vertical or horizontal position.

Know how to access your spare tire and jack. Vehicle owners should also consider obtaining towing insurance, either as a rider on their automobile insurance policy (such riders are usually very inexpensive for excellent coverage) or by joining an automobile club or other provider. Be prepared!

Follow the timeless, savvy advice of OUPD Sergeant M. Wayne Smith (Ret), "It doesn't cost any more to keep the top quarter of your tank filled than it does to keep the bottom quarter filled." Even if you're pressed for time, take time to fill up the tank. Making a habit of checking your fuel gauge whenever you start driving, and routinely "topping off" your tank, can prevent unexpected, untimely and dangerous roadside emergency situations.

If you experience a breakdown, pull as far onto the shoulder as possible and turn your emergency flashers on. If you have a cellular phone, summon assistance from a reputable source or call for law enforcement response. Otherwise, raise your hood or tie a streamer to your antenna, and await assistance inside your locked vehicle.

If a stranger stops, speak to them through a partially rolled-down window, and ask them to go to a phone and call police or a tow service; do not exit your vehicle until a law enforcement officer or tow operator are on scene. On longer trips, be sure you have water, food, and blankets in the vehicle.

If involved in a property-damage collision in an unfamiliar or potentially unsafe location, do not open or exit your vehicle. If you have a cellular telephone, summon law enforcement. If not, acknowledge the accident by hand signal, and motion the other driver to proceed with you to a safe location (where there are other people and light) to exchange information. If unable to proceed, honk the horn to attract attention and ask a passer-by to summon police.

Before your trip — Consider leaving a copy of your travel itinerary with a trusted family friend or relative (plus a driving route map or flight/bus/train trip info).

Also handy when you're "away" from home: You can download/print our "Lost/Stolen Wallet Inventory & Emergency Checklist" to record key information for a house-sitter, friend/neighbor, or relative.

If signaled to stop by any vehicle other than a clearly marked law enforcement unit, acknowledge the signal, and wave the driver to follow you to a safe location (where there are other people and light). Drive within the speed limit and take the shortest possible route to the nearest safe place. If you have a cellular phone, dial 9-1-1, tell the call-taker you are being followed by an unmarked vehicle attempting to stop you, and ask them to send a marked law enforcement vehicle to your location.

When parking, roll up the windows, lock the vehicle, take the keys, insure your valuables are concealed, preferably in the trunk. During hours of darkness, park and walk in lighted areas to the extent possible.

If you must leave valuable items in your car while out and about, place items out of sight before reaching your destination or move them inconspicuously. This includes packages, backpacks, gym bags, GPS units, MP3 players, and so forth. Someone may be watching when you put items under/behind seat or throw something over them. An opportunistic thief is on the lookout for "trunk-packing", and can break into your car the minute you're out of sight.

One reason SUVs and pickups are common auto-burglary targets is because they don't have a "trunk" to hold valuables — the driver/passenger generally just "hides" their valuables "out of sight". The thieves know this, and do check glove compartments, behind seats, and under seats. It only takes a few seconds to check all the "usual" hiding places.

Unobtrusively locking everything valuable "in the trunk" (if you have one) may be difficult when you're combining errands at multiple destinations. Certainly avoid leaving packages or shopping bags visible in your car — lock them in the trunk out of sight if you have to leave packages in your car unattended.

Plan your shopping/errands so that you don't load your trunk until you are ready to drive to another destination. Load your trunk when you leave a location — never open a trunk, fill it full of valuables, close it, and then just walk away to do more shopping or other errands.

When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible. As you approach your vehicle, scan the area, glance underneath the vehicle, and take a quick look inside before entering.

While out and about, present an alert appearance.
Be aware of your surroundings; scan the area from time to time. Avoid concentrating so hard on shopping that you fail to keep track of your surroundings, others near you, or your personal property.
Wear conservative, comfortable clothing.
Grip carried items firmly and avoid leaving them unattended.
Carry minimal cash and valuables, wear minimal jewelry.

Shop with friends or relatives if possible; there IS safety in numbers. As you shop, be alert in crowded places. Among pickpockets' favorites are revolving doors, jammed aisles, elevators, and public transportation stops and vehicles, especially at rush hour. Carry the day's most expensive purchases closest to your body, and don't carry so much you lose the ability to react quickly.

If possible, leave your children with a baby-sitter while you are shopping. For holiday shopping, consider making arrangements with family or friends/neighbors, and take turns baby-sitting. If you take your children with you, keep a close eye on them while shopping.

Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard if they ever get separated from you in a store/mall, and be sure they know their first and last name so they can tell someone who they are. It's best to keep children under four (4) in a stroller. Children in shopping carts should be properly belted and seated in the child carrier area at all times —never let your child stand in or push a shopping cart.

Return to your vehicle periodically to check on it and reduce the amount you are carrying and must keep track of. Store packages in the trunk or, if your vehicle doesn't have one, out of plain view (on the floorboard, under a blanket or clothes, etc). When possible, have purchases delivered instead of taking them with you; many businesses offer free delivery during the holiday shopping season. Ask for an escort to your car if you feel nervous.

Return to the mall or store for assistance if you spot suspicious activity near your vehicle. Stay alert while loading items into or out of the vehicle or arranging cargo stowage. If someone approaches, and you feel threatened, get in and lock up until they leave the area; if they loiter, drive away.

Using debit or credit cards is much safer than carrying a lot of cash. If the vendors you will visit don't take cards, consider obtaining traveler's checks which, unlike cash, can be replaced if lost or stolen. Visit ATM's only at well-lighted and populated locations; visit during daylight hours if possible.

Using the drive-up is usually safer than walking up or into a facility. Remember to scan around you as you make your withdrawal. Many ATMs now have "fisheye" mirrors mounted above the keyboard to enable you to view the entire surrounding area while conducting business; try to patronize ATMs so-equipped, and use the mirror!

If anyone is loitering, or you don't like their looks, go to another ATM. Stand such that those behind you cannot see your PIN as you enter it; your PIN should NEVER be written down on or carried with your ATM card.

Be observant. Avoid dark areas, short-cuts, cul-de-sacs, and suspicious persons. Stay near light and people.

Be prepared to flee potential problems. If apprehensive about any location for any reason, leave. Consider carrying a whistle. Weapons are not recommended, and may be unlawful.

If followed —
On Foot:

Cross the street

Vary your pace

Change direction

By Vehicle

Execute several right turns to verify

Get and stay on arterial streets

Note and record:

license plate number

description of vehicle and occupant(s)

If followed by a vehicle while you are on foot, turn and walk the "wrong way" onto a One-Way Street, if possible. If follower persists, go to an occupied and lighted location (convenience store, fire station, police station) and summon police.

Confine your charitable giving to reputable established organizations, preferably those with a local branch.

If solicited by an individual for personal charity, don't give cash; offer to buy the individual food or drink or refer them to local assistance resources.

If solicited for an unfamiliar organized charity, ask for literature so you can make an informed decision about giving; any reputable organization will be glad to provide material or a website address where you can check them out.

To avoid telephone solicitation to the extent possible, sign up for the "National Do-Not Call List". If solicited by telephone despite being on the list, simply hang up — it's your phone. If you choose to speak to the solicitor, do not give out credit card numbers or personal information not listed in the telephone directory, and don't allow the organization to come to your home until you are certain of their reliability. Instead, ask them to send you information so you can make an informed decision and mail in your donation.

With the exception of local organizations, door-to-door sales are often fraudulent, and should be viewed with skepticism. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Under consumer protection laws, you have a right to written information about any offer, and the right to cancel any order within three days should you reconsider your decision.

Make sure you obtain enough information to enable you to re-contact the vendor or his/her office in the event you have questions or change your mind. If you don't want to be bothered by door-to-door solicitors, most locations have a law that solicitors must avoid homes which display a "NO SOLICITORS" sign; bear in mind this usually doesn't apply to religious proselytizing, charitable organizations or political workers.

For further information about consumer protection laws, contact your State Attorney General's Office. Also, visit our nationally acclaimed safety presentation on Identity Theft and Fraud which has a wealth of information on shopping safety, both online and off.

Promptly report suspicious persons, vehicles, and crimes to the local law enforcement agency.

Did you know? —

Locking Your Checked Baggage: In some cases screeners will have to open your baggage as part of the screening process.

If your bag is unlocked then Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screeners will simply open and screen the baggage.

However, if you decide to lock your checked baggage, and TSA cannot open your checked baggage through other means, then the locks may have to be broken.

Holiday Safety
Decorating Tips
General tips:

Assemble and inspect all tools and materials before beginning actual decoration installation.

Be aware of local or homeowner association regulations and restrictions on holiday decorations.

If using a ladder, check the condition of rails, rungs, and brackets before positioning or climbing it. It is better to not use a metal ladder when installing electrical decorations if avoidable. Set ladders so the feet are on a stable, even and clean dry base. Have a spotter, if available, to help steady the ladder, pass materials and tools, and prevent persons from entering the drop zone.

Survey the location where you intend to install decorations to ensure that nails, screws or brackets will not penetrate electrical or other utility lines. Use the proper style and size hanger for the weight of the decoration you intend to mount.

Decorations should never block any means of egress nor access to utility shutoffs, including faucets, outlets, or meters. Be sure your street address numbers are not obscured by decorations, either. If you use an outdoor lighting socket as a power source for holiday decorations, make certain the lighting you temporarily disable is not safety-critical.

Young children should be kept out of areas where decorations are being installed; it’s very difficult to handle tools and materials properly and safely while keeping an eye on them.

Indoor holiday lighting tips:

Buy/use only lighting sets and extension cords that bear the Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) label and are specifically marked for indoor use.

Make certain you take time to unroll/untangle and inspect each set of lights —new or old— for worn insulation, bare/frayed wires, broken or cracked sockets, and loose connections. If you find any such damage, do not try to repair the set. Throw it away. Replace broken/damaged lamps/bulbs (and unplug the set prior to changing lamps/bulbs!)

Be careful not to overload electrical outlets. Always look for the manufacturer's recommendations on the number of light sets that can be strung together and other precautions listed on the packaging for the lights. If no manufacturer's instructions are available, as a general rule, never string more than three sets of lights per single extension cord.

Protect the electrical wires from damage. Don't run lights/wires behind drapes, under carpet, through doorways, or where they will be walked on. Don't use nails or tacks to hang wires. Plastic non-conductive "hangers" are available for various holiday light-set hanging needs.

Always unplug lights before doing any maintenance work on them.

Outdoor lighting considerations:

Buy/use only lighting sets and extension cords that bear the Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) label and are specifically marked for outdoor use.

Always look for the manufacturer's recommendations on the number of lights sets that can be strung together and other precautions listed on the packaging for the lights.

Check all light sets for fraying, aging, and heat damage. Throw away any sets that show signs of damage.

Connect sets of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into an outlet.

Always test your light sets before setting up your ladder —replacing broken/burnt-out bulbs is much easier on the ground than on a ladder/roof!

To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples; do not use nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove or disconnect them.

Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with GFI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection to avoid potential shocks.
If you are using a ladder, avoid contact with overhead power lines when setting up your ladder, stringing lights, or working on the roof.

Wherever extension cords and light sets are connected together outdoors, keep the connections dry by wrapping them with friction tape or plastic.

Tree Safety:

Fresh Trees —When selecting your tree, make sure to shake the tree vigorously, tap it on the ground, and watch for excessive loss of needles. If the tree loses a lot of needles, it's already drying out, and a dry tree significantly increases the risk of the tree catching fire in your home. The trunk butt should be sticky with resin. Fresh trees should be green and the needles should be difficult to pull from the branches. Another good test is to take a single needle and bend it between your fingers. The needle should bend, not break.

Once you've selected a fresh tree and gotten it home, secure it in a sturdy stand and provide it with adequate water. At holiday time, many stores carry products designed to help you keep track of when your tree needs water. Keeping your tree well-watered will keep it supple so it retains its needles, making for less cleanup after the holidays and a lesser fire danger. Be sure and keep the stand filled with water because both cut and live trees dry out rapidly in heated rooms.

Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals.

(Hopefully you won't even find "leaded" metal products available anywhere! For more information about lead-poisoning, click here to jump to the CDC's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program website, which includes lists of current product recalls involving lead.).

Artificial Trees —If you're considering an artificial tree, the most important thing to look for is the "Fire Resistant" label. This means the tree has been treated with a chemical that makes it resist burning — It does not mean the tree can't, or won't, catch on fire.

NEVER use electric lights on metallic trees — use spotlights for illumination. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
Greens —Evergreen (but NEVER cedar) cuttings may be used in limited quantities, but keep greens away from heat sources (radiators, air vents, large appliances, light receptacles, etc.) and don't smoke near trees or greens. To be as safe as possible, greens/cuttings used for door adornment or for corridor/stairwell decorations (or really for use anywhere other than as a table centerpiece) should be flameproofed by flocking or other treatment.

Tree Lighting —Decorate the tree first, and plug in the lights last.

Try to insure your lamps/bulbs don't touch the tree or other decorations. Take time to unroll/untangle and carefully inspect each set of lights before stringing it on the tree. It's easier to find and replace broken and burnt-out bulbs before stringing your lights on the tree! (And if a light set doesn't work at all, better to know it before it's on the tree, too!)

Turn off or unplug your indoor holiday lighting whenever the decorated area of the house is unattended –-not just when going to bed or leaving the house. Nowadays, relatively cheap wired and wireless "remote control" switches are available to ease this task (and keep you from having to crawl/bend behind a Christmas tree or furniture to unplug a lighting set/scene.) Outdoor lighting timers and remote-control sets are also available and should be considered.

Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. When using candles for holiday accents, always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they cannot be overturned.

In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable; keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces. Avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.

Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass "angel hair." Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

Remove all wrapping papers, bags, paper, ribbons and bows from tree and fireplace areas promptly after gifts are opened. These items can pose suffocation and choking hazards to a small child, or can ignite if near a heat source.

Live Tree & Greens/Cuttings Removal — Live trees and greens/cuttings should be removed as soon as practical after the holiday for which they were used.

Candle Safety Tips:

Make sure candles are placed in sturdy, non-combustible holders that will not tip, away from decorations, drapes, and other combustible materials.

Check your candles frequently to make sure they don't burn down too far or drip hot wax.

Keep small children away from candles and never leave children unattended in a room with lit candles.

Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
Do not use candles to decorate Christmas trees.

Keep Yule Logs, Menorahs and Kinaras away from drapes, trees or any other potentially flammable objects.

Extinguish candles and turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

For holiday decorating, you should purchase/use only materials labeled as noncombustible, flame-resistant, or flame-retardant. Locate all decorations and decorating materials away from heat sources.

These materials should never be used for holiday decorations, under any circumstances, because they are inherently combustible and/or cannot be flameproofed: bamboo, cedar trees/branches, corn stalks/shucks, cotton or confetti (loose, in large quantities), dry moss/leaves, flammable powders/liquids, hay/straw (loose or baled), paper streamers (serpentine), plastic sheeting/pellets, sawdust, tumbleweeds, wood bark/shavings
Keep holiday plants such as mistletoe, holly berries, and Christmas cactus away from children and pets.

Poinsettias — Previously considered a poisonous plant, recent studies have shown that the poinsettia is nontoxic. Ingestion of small amounts may result in mild gastrointestinal irritation (upset stomach) and could make pets very sick.

Toy Safety

—Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards for younger children.

Tips to help choose appropriate toys for children:

Magnets — For children under age six, avoid building sets with small magnets. If swallowed, serious injuries and/or death can occur.

Small Parts — For children younger than age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking. Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly-secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts.

Ride-on Toys — Riding toys, skateboards and in-line skates go fast and falls could be deadly. Helmets and safety gear should be sized to fit.

Projectile Toys — Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and sling shots are for older children. Improper use of these toys can result in serious eye injuries. For all children under 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.

Chargers and Adapters — Charging batteries should be supervised by adults. Chargers and adapters can pose thermal burn hazards to children.

Be a label reader when shopping for toys! Look for toy labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide. And, before allowing your child to play with a toy that he has received as a gift, read the instructions carefully.

To prevent both burns and electrical shocks, don't give young children (under age ten) a toy that must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Instead, buy toys that are battery-operated. Pay attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers. Some chargers lack any device to prevent overcharging.

Children under age three can choke on small parts contained in toys or games. Government regulations specify that toys for children under age three cannot have parts less than 1 1/4 inches in diameter and 2 1/4 inches long.

Children under age 8 can choke or suffocate on un-inflated or broken balloons. Remove strings and ribbons from toys before giving them to young children.

Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys before they become dangerous playthings.

Watch for pull toys with strings that are more than 12 inches in length. They could be a strangulation hazard for babies.

Bacteria are often present in raw foods. Fully cook meats and poultry, and thoroughly wash raw vegetables and fruits.

Wash cutting boards and preparation surfaces between uses, especially after raw meat is handled.

Be sure to keep hot liquids and foods away from the edges of counters and tables, where they can be easily knocked over by a young child's exploring hands.

Wash your hands frequently, and make sure your children do the same. To know (and teach your children) how long to wash, humming one chorus of "Happy Birthday" gives adequate sanitation in most circumstances.

Never put a spoon used to taste food back into food without washing it.

Always keep raw foods and cooked foods separate, and use separate utensils when preparing them.

Always thaw meat in the refrigerator, never on the countertop.
Foods that require refrigeration should never be left at room temperature for more than two hours.

Happy Visiting —

Clean up immediately after a holiday party. A toddler could rise early and choke on leftover food or come in contact with alcohol or tobacco.

Remember that the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.

Keep a laminated list with all the important phone numbers likely to be needed in case of an emergency. Include your pediatrician and the poison control center.

You can download/print our "Lost/Stolen Wallet Inventory & Emergency Checklist" to record key information for your own quick reference, or to help you create a modified one suitable to provide to a babysitter.

Ask your neighbor if he has a gun before sending your kids over to play. If the answer is yes, you need to make absolutely sure that all guns are stored unloaded and locked - ideally in a gun safe - with ammunition locked separately. Include the question along with other things you might normally discuss before sending your child to someone's house.

Traveling, visiting family members, getting presents, shopping, etc., can all increase your child's stress levels. Sticking to your child's usual routines, including sleep schedules and timing of naps, can help you and your child enjoy the holidays and reduce stress.

Fireplace chimneys should be cleaned annually, preferably by a professional chimney sweep.

Fireplaces should be equipped with a safety screen or doors, which should be kept closed at all times when the fire is lit.
Before lighting any fire, check to see that the damper is open. Remove all greens, boughs, papers, and other decorations from the fireplace area.

Use care with "fire salts," which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if eaten. Keep them away from children and avoid inhaling smoke from their flames.
Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

Have a SAFE and happy holiday Season!

Domestic Violence Awareness by Peg Hanson RN. MSN

“ Domestic Violence violates the most basic of human rights - to be safe within your own body and in your home. It’s a real danger that many women and girls face each day.” (J Poisson, THR Oct 29, 2003).

In the 1980's the Surgeon General C. Everett Koop led the first national effort to raise awareness of family violence as a public health problem. Domestic Violence is the leading cause of injury to women’s ages 13 - 44 and accounts for more than muggins, stranger rapes and motor vehicle accidents combined.

The Senate Judiciary Committee in 1990 stated “ If every women victimized by domestic violence were to join hands, the string of women would span from New York to Los Angeles and back again.” It is estimated that 20% to 50% of all females presenting to Hospital Emergency Departments are battered women (Ellis, 1990). In most populations, one in four women may be physically or sexually abused. Battering is now recognized as the single most common cause of injury to women in the United States.

Domestic Violence is a pattern of behavior that may include: the use of physical or sexual force, economic, emotional and/or psychological abuse exerted by one family member against another (this is also true in same sex relationships). The GOAL is to establish and maintain POWER AND CONTROL over their victims. Most victims are unaware that Domestic Violence is a CRIME, punishable by incarceration depending on the level and outcome of their crime.

Battering is a pattern, not a single incident with the underlying issue being power and control. I cannot state enough that Power and Control is maintained by the man against the women for many reasons, the most being that the man grew up in this environment at home and feels that this is normal.
The following is a check list that you can use to help you determine if you or someone you know is being abused. If your partner does things that make you uncomfortable or afraid and that isolates you from family or friends, you may be abused. This list should also be used by girls ages 16 - 24 as this is now the largest growing population being abused by their boyfriend.

Does Your Partner...
1.Constantly criticize you and your ability as a wife or partner, mother or employee?

2. Behave in an overprotective way or become extremely jealous?

3. Threaten to hurt you, your children, pets, friends, family members or himself?

4. Prevent you from seeing family or friends?

5. Gets suddenly angry or lose his temper?

6. Destroy personal property?

7. Deny you access to family resources like the car, bank accounts, credit cards or control all finances and force you to account for what you spend?

8. Intimidate or manipulate you or your children?

9. Hit, punch, slap, kick, shove or bite you?

10. Prevent you from going where you want to, when you want to?

11. Makes you have sex that makes you feel uncomfortable?

12. Humiliate, put you down, or embarrass you in front of others?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you maybe a battered woman. You are not alone-millions of women are abused by their partners every year.

There are many services that are available to women who are victims of Domestic Violence.

The major focus of all services available is to MAINTAIN YOUR SAFETY!

All of the agencies will offer a safe place for you, your children and at times your pet(s). The agencies are anonymous, however they are there to help and assist you through the process of getting your life back together.

If you are in a current active domestic violence abuse call 911. The police will come and take you to a safe place, take you to an Emergency Department to receive medical care if needed. A copy of the police report can be given to you in case you decide to take your abuser to court and prosecute.

In Orange County now has a an Orange County Family Justice Center (FJS) which opened in July of 2007. Think of it as a “one-stop-shopping”, comprehensive service program for victims of violence and their families. Child abuse cases are also decided here. A victim is now able to have all of the court services to assist them in one area instead of going from one court to another. This helps maintain the victims safety.

Numbers available for Domestic Violence help

1. 911

2. Safe Holmes of Orange County, a not- for- profit agency that provides a multitude of services for victims. Telephone Number 1-800-503-HOPE (4673) This is a secure hot line number.

3. New York State Hot Line Numbers for Adult Domestic Violence
English: 1-800-942-6906
Spanish: 1-800-942-6908

Rock salt to melt ice on walkways
Sand to improve traction
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
Prepare your home and family
Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. For example, store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.

Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic.

Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.

Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.

Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).

Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors or employees.

Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work. Prepare your car Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car:

Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.

Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean.

Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.

Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes andrepair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.

Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas.

Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.

Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.

Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.

Thermostat - ensure it works properly.

Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.

Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season.

Place a winter emergency kit in each car that includes:

a shovel
windshield scraper and small broom
flashlight
battery powered radio
extra batteries
water
snack food
matches
extra hats, socks and mittens
First aid kit with pocket knife
Necessary medications
blanket(s)
tow chain or rope
road salt and sand
booster cables
emergency flares
fluorescent distress flag

Wear several layers of loose fitting, lightweight, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. The outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.

Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves.

Wear a hat.

Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

SUMMARY

Driving requires skill and concentration. Today it seems we are constantly faced with distractions. These distractions can momentarily prevent us from performing basic and sometimes critical driving skills. Distractions affect all drivers from time to time.
Most distractions are brief; however a distraction at the wrong time can have fatal results. Any situation that can mentally or
emotionally distract the driver and take precedence over traffic matters is dangerous. Distractions must be kept to a minimum with the driver focused at all times on the task of driving.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has estimated that driver inattention or distraction is responsible for
25%-30% of police reported traffic crashes, or an estimated 1.2 million crashes per year. Driver inattention is a major contributor
to highway crashes. The NHTSA estimates that approximately 25% of police-reported crashes involve some form of driver inattention – the driver is distracted, asleep, fatigued, or otherwise lost in thought. The NHTSA estimates that more than 4,300 crashes occur each day as a result of distracted driving.

WHAT IS DISTRACTED DRIVING

According to the NHTSA, distraction occurs when a driver "is delayed in the recognition of information needed to safely accomplish the driving task because some event, activity, object, or person within or outside the vehicle compels or induces the driver's shifting attention away from the driving task." Inattentive or distracted drivers appear to be a growing contributing factor in most collisions. Below is a list of distractions that
impact driving.

TYPES OF DISTRACTION

•Visual
•Auditory
•Physical
•Cognitive

Distractions That Increase Driving Risk

1. Eating or drinking

2. Reading maps or newspapers

3. Personal grooming such as shaving, applying lipstick or mascara,
combining or brushing hair

4. Changing clothes

5. Outside person, object or event

6. Adjusting radio, cassette, or CD

7. Other occupants in vehicle

8. Moving object in vehicle

9. Smoking related

10. Talking or listening on cellular phone

11. Dialing cellular phone

12. Using device/object brought into vehicle

13. Using device/controls integral to vehicle (such as climate controls)

14. Tending to small children or infants

15. Other unknown distractions

Besides the obvious physical distractions, it is important to guard against mental and emotional distractions as well. Strong emotions can allow a driver to become distracted or inattentive. Strong emotions such as anger or grief may cause a driver to become more aggressive and less tolerant of other drivers.

Stress may cause a driver to become preoccupied and unable to focus on driving. Distracted drivers may be less aware of their environment and perception of hazards such as red traffic lights. Some examples of actions caused by emotional distractions may include: approaching a red light, stopping for a moment and then driving through it; failure to notice a stop sign, stopping at a green light, and/or drifting into oncoming traffic lanes.

DISTRACTIONS AND IMPACT ON DRIVING ABILITY

1. Drivers react more slowly- to traffic conditions or events outside of the vehicle, such as a car stopping or pulling out in front of them.

2. Drivers often fail to recognize potential hazards- such as pedestrians, bicyclists or debris in the road.

3. Drivers have a decreased "margin of safety"-which leads them to take risks they might not otherwise take, such as turning left in
front of oncoming traffic.

DISTRACTED DRIVING BEHAVIORS

Survey findings show that most drivers at least occasionally engage in behaviors that divert some of their attention away from their driving task. The most common of these behaviors include general activities of talking with other passengers (81%), changing radio stations or CDs(66%), and eating or drinking while driving (49%). While it is estimated that more than a billion driving trips are made weekly by drivers engaging in each of these behaviors, fewer than one in four drivers perceive these particular activities as distracting or as making driving much more dangerous. About one in four driver's uses a cellular phone while driving for either inbound (26%) or out bound calls (25%), while a similar proportion deals with children in a backseat (24%). Close to one-half of drivers perceive these behaviors to make driving much more dangerous, although drivers who use cellular phones are only half as less likely as non-users to feel cellular phone use is dangerous. Drowsy driving is a major contributing factor in distracted driving. Driving while drowsy accounts for over a third,(37%) of drivers who have reported nodding off or falling asleep at least once since they began driving. Nearly half of drivers who nodded off report doing so between 9:00PM and 6:00AM.

MAKE SAFE DRIVING YOUR FIRST CALL

The use of cellular phones while driving is a continuous growing concern. Studies have shown that drivers may be four times more likely to be involved in a collision while using a cellular phone. In several states legislation has been passed to ban hand held cell phone use while driving.

Good judgment must be exercised at all times while driving. Safe driving is the employee's first responsibility. Employees should place calls before departing their destination or after arriving at their destination. The company prohibits the use of cellular phones while an employee is driving a vehicle on company business unless specialized equipment (such as mounted speakerphone, headset, or ear bud) is used by an employee who has a business need to use a cellular phone. Unless such specialized equipment is used, a cellular phone may only be used if the vehicle is stationary and safely parked off the roadway. Each Business Unit is accountable for determining which jobs require hands-free devices.

Safety Tips for Cellular Phone Use:

Avoid using cellular phones when driving.

Use hands free microphones

Have a passenger dial or answer the phone for you.

Keep your calls brief.

If you expect a call to last more than a short period, pull over andstop to finish your call.

Pull over before placing a call.

Never take notes while driving.

Make sure your cellular phone is easy to see and accessible to useonly in Emergencies.

AVOIDING DISTRACTIONS

Stay focused on your driving.

Conduct personal grooming before or after arriving at your destination.

If you must take your eyes off the road momentarily, slow down, increase your following distance, check mirrors, and identify any
hazards around you.

Do not allow passengers to divert your concentration.

Make sure children are properly restrained before you begin driving.
Pull over and stop if infants or small children require attention
that would divert your concentration from the road.

Avoid eating or drinking while driving.

Make sure pets do not interfere with your vision or control of the car.

Some Examples of Distracted Driving From Police Crash Reports:

Driver stated he was on his cellular phone and writing down some notes. Due to this he never saw the red light which he ran causing
the collision.

Driver states she reached down in the floor of her vehicle to pick up the CD player and when she looked up everyone was stopped.
Driver of vehicle had a drink which started to spill so the driver tried to grab the drink, causing her to turn off the road to the right
and strike a fire hydrant.

Driver of vehicle had taken his attention from traffic ahead to obtain a map out of his glove box. He did not observe traffic slowing
and this caused the accident.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING AND PASSENGER INTERVENTION

Recognizing and reacting to a distracted driver can help you avoid an accident caused by the other driver's inattention. There are obvious signs of a driver being potentially distracted such as observing these behaviors directly while on the road. Many of us have witnessed a driver reading a road map or dialing a cell phone while at highway speeds. Less obvious indications include quick or abrupt maneuvers, the vehicle drifting or wandering on the road, not maintaining highway speed on a clear and level roadway, or failing to stop or yield when necessary. If a distracted driver is suspected, increase the distance between your vehicle and theirs. It is usually better to be behind this driver so you can better take evasive action or avoid a collision if an inappropriate maneuver occurs. Do not become confrontational or challenge the other driver in any way.

If you are a passenger in a vehicle with a driver who is becoming distracted, your intervention can help prevent an accident. Avoid
arguing with the driver or engaging in activities that otherwise diverts the driver's focus from the road. Offer to navigate, dial a
cell phone, make comfort control or stereo system adjustments, or even take the driver's seat so the other individual can focus on
the desired activity. You may want to provide constructive feedback to the driver and point-out the at risk behavior and help change this individual's driving habits. A casual discussion about distracted driving along with positive reinforcement and the driver's commitment to focus on the road can help promote safe driving behaviors.

10 Tips for Fire Safety

1. Install Smoke Detectors.
WORKING SMOKE DETECTORS can alert you to a fire in your home in time for you to escape, even if you are sleeping. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement, and outside each sleeping area. If you sleep with the door closed, install one inside your sleeping area as well.

Test detectors every month, following the manufacturer's directions, and replace batteries once a year, or whenever a detector "chirps" to signal low battery power. Never "borrow" a smoke detector's battery for another use - a disabled detector can't save your life. Replace detectors that are more than 10 years old.

2. Plan Your Escape From Fire.
IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT in your home, you have to get out fast. Prepare for a fire emergency by sitting down with your family and agreeing on an escape plan. Be sure that everyone knows at least two unobstructed exits - doors and windows - from every room. (If you live in an apartment building, do not include elevators in your escape plan.) Decide on a meeting place outside where everyone will meet after they escape. Have your entire household practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

3. Keep An Eye On Smokers.
Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths in North America. Smoking in bed or when you are drowsy could be deadly. Provide smokers with large, deep non-tip ashtrays and soak butts with water before discarding them. Before going to bed or leaving home after someone has been smoking, check under and around cushions and upholstered furniture for smoldering cigarettes.

4. Cook Carefully.
Never leave cooking unattended. Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles and wear clothes with short, rolled-up or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook. Turn pot handles inward on the stove where you can't bump them and children can't grab them. Enforce a "Kid-Free Zone" three feet (one meter) around your kitchen stove. If grease catches fire in a pan, slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames and turn off the heat. Leave the lid on until cool.

5. Give Space Heaters Space.
Keep portable heaters and space heaters at least three feet (one meter) from anything that can burn. keep children and pets away from heaters, and never leave heaters on when you leave home or go to bed.

6. Remember: Matches And Lighters Are Tools, Not Toys.
In a child's hand, matches and lighters can be deadly. Use only child-resistant lighters and store all matches and lighters up high, where small children can't see or reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach your children that matches and lighters are tools, not toys, and should be used only by adults or with adult supervision. Teach young children to tell a grown-up if they find matches or lighters; older children should bring matches or lighters to an adult immediately.

7. Cool A Burn.
Run cool water over a burn for 10 to 15 minutes. Never put butter or any grease on a burn. If the burned skin blisters or is charred, see a doctor immediately. Never use ice.

8. Use Electricity Safely.
If an electrical appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed. Don't overload extension cords or run them under rugs. Dont' tamper with your fuse box or use improper-size fuses.

9. Crawl Low Under Smoke.
During a fire, smoke and poisonous gases rise with the heat. The air is cleaner near the floor. If you encounter smoke while you are escaping from a fire, use an alternate escape route.

10. Stop, Drop And Roll.
If your clothes catch fire, don't run. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over to smother the flames.

Home heating and your safety

Keeping home heating costs under control during our long, cold winters can be a challenge. There are ways you can help manage those costs as part of your overall home maintenance program. Many of these actions will also help keep your home and family safe, so follow these steps and you'll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your gas appliances are operating efficiently and safely.

Hire a licensed gas contractor
Have a licensed gas contractor check your gas appliances, chimney and venting systems at least once a year. Think of it as an investment that improves the efficiency of your heating system and provides a level of safety for your family. If you are considering installing any heat-saving devices, have your contractor ensure that they conform with the operation of your gas appliances. And, if it's time to replace a heating or gas appliance, your contractor can help you choose the right equipment and install it for you.

Do it yourself
There are a number of things you can do yourself as part of your home maintenance program, but do not attempt to repair gas appliances yourself. Leave that work for a licensed gas contractor.

One obvious step is to seal up your home to prevent expensive and drafty air leaks. Use caulking around windows and other openings to stop the cold air invasion. If you have a window air conditioner, make sure it is well sealed around the edges, and cover the unit to protect it and keep the cold air out. Be aware that if you make your house airtight, you will need to install a combustion air duct into the room containing your major gas heating appliances. This air duct supplies fresh outside air for burner operation and helps vent the products of combustion.

Once you've sealed the leaks, you can make your own visual checks of chimneys, venting systems and filters periodically during the heating season:

check furnace filters monthly, and clean or replace them when necessary;
remove any additional filters at floor registers and cold air return grills, as they restrict the air flow your furnace needs to operate properly;

ensure proper heat distribution by keeping registers, grills and heat radiators free of obstructions such as furniture or carpets; and
if your furnace has a fan belt, check it monthly and replace it when it shows signs of wear. After you've made your checks, make sure all panels and doors on your gas appliances are closed properly.
Here are some other tips that will help keep you and your family safe:

keep items away from ventilation openings on gas appliances and never store flammable liquids or materials near them;
do not use gas appliances such as a range or oven to heat your home;
have wood-burning fireplaces or appliances checked regularly and follow directions for their safe use;

open a window before lighting your fireplace or wood stove and keep it open until the fire is completely out;
understand the dangers and symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO), the silent killer, and consider installing a CO detector in your home; and avoid carbon monoxide buildup by never running your vehicle or snow blower in the garage or other enclosed area for extended periods of time.

To conduct a free five-minute audit of your home's energy efficiency, go to homecheck

Propane safety tips for winter

Safe storage for your propane barbeque:

For most of us winter means the end of the barbeque season. It also means taking time to prepare your gas grill for safe storage. It will take about an hour to clean your grill thoroughly, but some clean-up work now will make it much easier to start cooking outdoors again in the spring.

To get the job done you'll need warm, soapy water, a brass bristle brush, a soft cloth, toothpicks, sandpaper and the owner's manual for your grill.

Begin by turning over the briquettes so the greasy side faces the burner. Light the grill, close the lid and turn the burner to high for 15 minutes to burn the grease off the briquettes and cooking grids.

When the grill cools, remove the briquettes and grids. Use the brush and soapy water to remove any remaining grease from the grids, rinse and dry them. Then, set the briquettes and grids aside.
Turn the gas off at the cylinder. Follow instructions in your manual to unfasten the burner, slip the venturi tubes off the gas lines and remove the unit. Clean any dirt or grease on the unit using the soft cloth and warm water. Towel dry the unit and clear each gas port on the burner with a toothpick. Clean the venturi tubes with warm, soapy water and set the unit aside.

Cover the gas outlets under the grill with aluminum foil, and then clean any grease buildup inside and outside the grill housing using the brush and water. Rinse the grill and towel it dry. You can then remove the aluminum foil.

Examine the grill housing for paint chips or scrapes. Grills made of aluminum will not rust, but they can corrode if paint chips are not repaired. Sand the scraped or chipped paint until the metal is white and shiny. Apply primer and touchup paints designed for high heat to the sanded areas. When the paint is dry, reattach the burner, venturi tubes and igniter. Cover the gas line openings with a plastic bag over the ends to keep insects out. Put the briquettes and cooking grids back in place.

Check the condition of the propane cylinder. If it is dented or seriously rusted, replace it immediately. Stop any minor corrosion following the same procedures as with the grill housing.
Move the barbeque to its winter storage location. If the grill is stored outside, leave the propane cylinder in its normal position and cover the entire grill with a protective cover. If the grill is stored indoors, disconnect the cylinder and store it outdoors in an upright position, away from dryer or furnace vents, or children's play areas. Never store the cylinder in an enclosed space.

Fire Safety Tips For Fireplaces and Wood Burning Stoves

Fireplaces and wood burning stoves are auxiliary home heating devices that demand care and attention in their purchase, installation, and maintenance. Following these precautions can reduce the possibility of a fire or injury related to their use. All wood burning stoves and fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected before the heating season begins. Make sure that the door latch closes properly. Furnaces and water heaters which have flue pipes attached to the chimney of a fireplace or wood burning stove should have tight fitting joints and seams.

Fireplaces should be equipped with a tight fitting spark screen or enclosed with glass doors to stop sparks from landing on carpet or other nearby combustibles. Special retaining screens can also keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fire and so reduce the possibility of accidental burns.
Never use liquid fuel to start the fire in a fireplace or wood burning stove.

Ashes need to be thoroughly dampened, cooled, and stored in metal cans that are used solely for ash storage, not in compost piles, cartons, boxes or anything else that is combustible. It is important to use only thoroughly dried hardwood. This will prevent or slow the buildup of creosote which is the cause of many chimney fires. Although these following these precautions should reduce your risk of a chimney fire, be aware of the signs of one and know what to do if you encounter them -- a loud roar, sucking sounds, shaking pipes, hot spots on wall or chimney, or smoke in the house or apartment.
If you hear or see any of these sounds shut off the fire's air supply, get everyone out of the house quickly, and call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's phone.

There is something special about the feeling of warmth and cheer that surrounds gathering around the hearth on a cold winter night; take the time to make it a safe experience for you and your family.