Tips to Stay Safe

One Fall (Autumn) is inevitable every year, but the second type of fall does not have to be inevitable. Consequences of the second type of fall for any age group can be severe, even life changing. Seniors, however, are particularly vulnerable to falls. In fact, falls are a leading cause of injury for people over the age of 65, and a contributing factor for accidental death in this age group. It is reported that one third of people over 65, fall yearly. Within this group, 50% of these falls represent recurrent events.

There is an irony in reviewing the dangers presented by water activities, as these activities are generally accompanied by warm memories and good times. However, as with all safety topics, reviewing the sad outcomes, allows us to focus on the safety measures that will prepare us, and thus mitigate against water based injuries and death. Multiple agencies across the Unites States, at federal, state, and local levels are invested in water safety and specifically prevention of death and/or injury from drowning.

As you may have noticed, the HOT temperatures have arrived.  We have experienced temperatures above 110 degrees already.  This is extreme heat, and we should take precautions. Populations at risk during a period of excessive heat include children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people with disabilities. It is estimated that approximately 700 people a year die of heat related events.  Safety during periods of extreme heat focuses on hydration and education regarding heat exhaustion/heat stroke.

Trails have difficulty levels associated with them. Planning a trail is based on your hiking experience, what you can comfortably fit in a backpack based on what you might need for specific equipment, food, water, and your physical ability to carry that pack. Terrain is an important consideration. Be sure you can handle steep hills, and the environment in terms of temperature, humidity, special equipment needed. And don’t forget to check the altitude you will be going into. Generally, if you are living in the Tucson valley, a climb over 8,000 feet can put you at risk of altitude sickness. And it’s always a good idea to hike with a friend. Not only to be safe, but to share the experience with. Talking with one another along the way is a very easy way of monitoring your breathing and setting a comfortable pace for the hike.

This month we will talk about desert pests. A pest can simply be a nuisance or can be dangerous.   Any bite from any of the creatures in this article should be seen by medical personnel for advice, consultation, or treatment. 

We hope that you will learn something new and something that will help you avoid a bite or injury from one of our desert neighbors. However, if you are bitten by any desert creature and are concerned contact your Professional Health Care Provider for medical guidance immediately.

Wildfires, along with their tremendous toll of human lives and injury, property destruction, destruction of forests and eco and biosystems, have been all too common in recent years. It has become apparent to experts who study fires and to the millions of people who live in wildfire areas that these fires are, unfortunately, no longer uncommon. A multifaceted approach to wildfire management encompasses amongst many other goals, prevention of wildfires, training to assure firefighter expertise, and identifying populations and property most at risk in proximity to wildfire zones.

Nutrition and food preparation are an essential part of our daily routines. Mealtime with friends and family represents a time of enjoying a meal, sharing conversation, and being with people we value. Whether we are cooking for one person or 10 people, getting the meal safely to the table, represents a combination of good habits, planning, and awareness of cooking “Do’s and Don’ts”.

Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and Advanced escape planning

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once a smoke alarm sounds. That is if your alarms are working!  Check your alarms monthly.  Smoke alarms should be present in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. You should have alarms on every level of the home. Bring everyone in your household together and “Make a Plan.” Walk through your home and inspect all the possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips…