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As we continue to deal with the current pandemic, safety is more critical than ever. You all have been inundated with discussions on how to stop the spread of COVID-19, PPE, and social distancing, so I wanted to focus on other items. Due to the current circumstances, and the majority of our campus working from home, I would like to offer safety reminders geared toward your home, rather than your work/office space.

SLIPS/TRIPS/FALLS

Falls are the most common accidents that occur in the home. Please consider placing a non–slip mat in your bath or shower. Consider installing grab rails near your toilet or shower. For those with young children, be mindful of toys and trip hazards. Parents know all too well the pains of stepping on toys while traveling through your home.

CUTS

Minor cuts in the kitchen are also very common. Keep knives sharp, as dull knives can slip easily. Avoid walking around with knives in hand. Ensure proper safety devices are used while operating mechanical slicers. Limit your distractions while using knives and mechanical utensils.

FIRE SAFETY

I am sure I am stating the obvious, but always worth mentioning, closely monitor open flames when cooking. Keep your cooking surfaces clean and clear. Keep combustible items away from your cooktop. Replace your batteries annually in your smoke detectors and have a working fire extinguisher on hand.

DROWNING

As we approach summer and the temperatures begin warming, people will be opening their pools or heading to their favorite swimming locations. Drowning accounts for more than 30% of unintentional deaths among children aged 1-4. If you have a swimming pool, it is recommended that the pool be gated and locked.

FIRST-AID KITS

Keeping a well-stocked first-aid kit at home and in your vehicle is always a good idea. First aid kits come in all shapes and sizes. You can purchase a pre-made kit from pharmacies, superstores, and the Red Cross. You can also build your own custom kit. Some recommended items are:

  • Absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
  • Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
  • Adhesive cloth tape
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic or antiseptic wipes
  • Pain reliever
  • Emergency blanket
  • Breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
  • Instant cold compress, also found within our First Aid Kit
  • Non-latex gloves
  • Hydrocortisone ointment packets
  • 3 in. gauze roll bandage
  • 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
  • 3 in. x 3 in. sterile gauze pads
  • Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
  • Triangular bandages
  • Tweezers
  • Emergency First Aid guide

SPONSORING DEPARTMENT, OFFICE, OR ORGANIZATION:

Public Safety

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Erin Mortensen emortensen@carthage.edu