Home-Repair Safety Tips: How to Do It Yourself Without Doing Yourself Harm

Performing repair tasks around your home should be satisfying and safe.  You certainly won’t feel satisfied if you have to visit the emergency room because of a cut or fall!  It’s important to choose safe tools and use them correctly, and how to properly employ equipment, such as ladders, to avoid injuries.

Safe Tools

The first rule of tool safety is to buy good quality. You don’t have to buy the best, but lowest cost can often mean lowest value.  The best value is typically higher-quality tools and equipment purchased at a discount.  It’s also important to use your tools correctly.  It may be tempting to use a screwdriver as a chisel, but doing so can damage the tool and, more important, damage you.

Also, never remove the safety guards installed on power equipment, and always wear safety goggles when working with power equipment.  Safety glasses should also be worn when sanding, filing or doing any other job that produces flying particles.  Make sure your safety glasses wrap around the sides to keep deflected particles from reaching your eyes from any angle.

Don’t take a chance of hitting a thumb or finger when hammering a small brad, tack or nail.  Slip the fastener between the teeth of a pocket comb; the comb holds the nail while you hold the comb.  A bobby pin or a paper clip can be used the same way as a comb

Even when you’ve purchased high-quality tools and learned how to use them properly, you still have to remember another vital step: maintenance.  The most dangerous tool is one that isn’t well maintained.  A dull saw is less safe than a sharp one.  A hammer with a loose handle can do more damage than one in good repair.  A power tool with a frayed cord can electrocute you.  So, be diligent about tightening loose parts, fixing damaged cords and sharpening dull blades.

Quick Fix Tool Care

Quality tools aren’t cheap.  But with care, they can last many years and be a better long-term investment than cheap tools.  Here are some useful tips on tool care.

• Protect your tools from moisture.  Keep a thin coating of oil on metal parts, wrap them in plastic wrap or keep carpenters’ chalk or mothballs (both of which absorb moisture) in your toolbox.
• A handy protective cover for the teeth of a handsaw between projects can be fashioned from a piece of garden hose slit open.  Circular saw blades store conveniently in heavy shipping envelopes.
• Fasten the chuck key near the plug end of the cord to remind yourself to unplug an electric drill when changing accessories.  Tack rags will last longer if they’re stored in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.  Airtight storage also prevents spontaneous combustion, which can be very dangerous.  (This safety tip applies equally well to other rags, coveralls, work gloves and any other clothes that might absorb flammable oils and solvents.)

Safe Ladders

A sturdy stepladder will make lots of quick fixes easier.  If you don’t already own one, invest in a good ladder, and use it for all those out-of-reach projects.  Most home-use ladders are made of wood or aluminum.  Depending on quality, both types are reliable.  Aluminum, however, weighs only 20 to 50 percent as much as wood, which means it’s easier to take it in and out of storage or move it around.  Check labels for the ladder’s rated strength.  For an extra measure of safety, get one with rubber or plastic feet so your ladder won’t skid on hard floors.

Using Ladders Safely

There is no such thing as an absolutely safe ladder. Gravity Always Wins.  However, there are ways to greatly reduce your risk of accidents and injury with ladders.

• Always open a stepladder to its fullest position, lock the spreader braces on each side in place, and pull down the bucket shelf.
• Whether you are going up or coming down, always face the ladder head-on and use both hands to hold onto the side rails or rungs.
• Don’t climb higher than two rungs from the top; don’t sit or stand on the top or the bucket shelf.
• To keep yourself from overreaching and getting off balance, never let your navel go beyond either of the ladder’s side rails.
• Never climb a ladder with tools in your hand or in your pockets.

Electrical Safety

Electricity can help…or hurt. An appliance can make your coffee in the morning but a frayed cord can electrocute you.  Here are some rules for working safely with electricity.

• Never work on a live electrical circuit.  Unplug the circuit, trip the circuit breaker or unscrew the fuse before you begin working.
• Always use only equivalent replacement parts.  That is, replace a controller with one that has the same function and rating.  Don’t replace a 10-amp appliance cord with one that is rated for 5 amps.
• Carefully check all loose wires for damage or stress, and reconnect them using electrical tape, wire nuts or other enclosing fasteners.  Not only can a loose wire break an electrical circuit, but also it can injure you if you touch it while it is energized or hot.
• Most important, think before you act.  Electricity follows strict laws.  You must follow the same laws in order to repair electrical systems safely.

Safety Tip to Remember:
Quick doesn’t mean work as fast as you can move.  It means planning out the task in advance and doing it safely and well.  Using common sense and the right tools will help you tackle home improvement repairs or projects safely and with confidence.

Protection Against Domestic Violence

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

If these experiences are happening to you, you might feel hopeless, ashamed, desperate, confused and alone.  You may not want to tell other people about your situation because you feel afraid, embarrassed or fear for the safety of your children, parents or other vulnerable members of your household.  You are NOT ALONE and you can find help.

Here are some signs of an abusive relationship that may result in domestic violence

• You are afraid of your partner’s temper
• You are overly concerned about what kind of mood your partner is in
• Your partner prevents you from seeing your friends or family, or alienates them so that they are uncomfortable being around him
• Your partner threatens to hurt or kill you, your children, your family, friends or pets
• Your partner yells at you, reprimands you or demeans you in public
• Your partner calls you names, insults you, threatens you with or actually commits sexual violence against you
• Your partner hits, slaps, pushes or shoves you, pulls your hair or inflicts physical injury on you in any way
• Your partner prevents you from getting or keeping a job
• Your partner keeps you from leaving the house or locks you out of the house.

There’s no reason to accept or tolerate this behavior from a spouse or domestic partner. If you need help, here’s what you can do:

• Leave your home or have someone stay with you.

• Go to a battered-women’s shelter.

• Get medical attention from your doctor or hospital emergency room.  Ask the staff to photograph your injuries and keep detailed records in case you decide to take legal action.

• Communicate with someone who can help—a trusted friend or family member, an advocate or domestic hotline counselor, your priest or minister, your doctor.

• Have a plan for where to go when you escape the home situation.  If you don’t have a car, think of a safe place nearby where someone can pick you up.  Also, know the routes to pubic transportation closest to your house.

• If you have an Order of Protection, keep it on you at all times and keep a copy of it somewhere safe.

• Establish a code word you can use with a friend to indicate your need for help when you are in trouble but unable to speak freely.  When your friend hears that word, it means “Call 911”.

• If you live alone and are in fear, consider installing an alarm system to not only protect your house when you are away, but to also have emergency features accessible from all rooms of the house.

Decide how you and your children would get out of your home if necessary

• Know a pathway you can use at night.  Think of public places you can access 24 hours a day.  Know the quickest route to the police station, hospital, fire station and well-lighted stores in your area.

• If you leave by car, lock all doors immediately.

• Keep your essential belongings—ID, cash, credit cards, keys—in a safe and quickly accessible place at all times.

• Know the best route out of your home, room or apartment building.

If you are afraid your partner will harass you at work, make an escape route.  Also, give a photo of your abuser to a supervisor you trust and to building security if available and make sure the person will NOT be allowed inside.  Give a copy of your Order of Protection to personnel who will help ensure your safety at work.

Most important, know that this situation is not your fault.  Record incidents of abuse in detail, with photographs of injuries whenever possible, and be prepared to report the acts committed against you to authorities.  Do not let your fear of your partner keep you from halting this dangerous pattern of behavior.

You can only get help if you seek it.

Protect Children From Kidnapping And Stranger Danger

Each year, approximately 58,000 missing children are abducted by non-family members. Typically, strangers who kidnap children commit their crimes with intent to harm their young victims.  In nearly 80 percent of non-family child abductions cases, the victim is sexually assaulted or physically abused by the perpetrator.  Every day, these offenders lure unsuspecting children into vehicles and homes.  Because most of these kids are not prepared for the reality of “stranger danger”, they tend to trust unknown adults.

• Tell your children to always walk or play in groups.  Predators search for isolated targets such as children who are walking alone or playing alone.  If you see a friend or neighbor’s young child walking alone, make sure to include that particular neighbor in your stranger-danger strategy.  For instance, you could suggest a buddy or carpool plan to get neighboring children to and from school.

• You should always know where your kids are going, even if they leave the house with another trusted adult.  If your children spend time at their friends’ homes, you should discuss a mutual child-watch plan with other parents.  If your children are young, explain to these parents that you do not allow your children to play outside unsupervised.  Promise to keep a similar close watch on their children when they play at your house.

• If your children walk or ride their bikes to other nearby houses, designate safe places for your child to run if threatened by a stranger.

• Keep a list of phone numbers of other nearby parents and offer your numbers to these parents.  You can quickly check on the location of your children if needed.

• Teach your kids about strangers.  Tell them that a stranger is any adult they do not know. Introduce your children to other parents you trust.  Meet the children of these parents, so you will become a familiar face to the kids.  Ideally, these children will be able to pick out a few friendly adults in a crowd of strangers.

• In addition to other parents, your kids should know which strangers are safe.  Store clerks, police officers, teachers, people who are behind desks in office buildings, mail-carriers and mothers with children are generally safe strangers.  Explain to your children that they can trust these strangers if they ever need help and they cannot locate an adult they recognize.  Teach your children that stores, schools, libraries and restaurants are all safe public places where they can run if they are in jeopardy.

• Practice a secret code word with your children.  Choose a word that would not be easy for a stranger to guess.  Use this code word when another adult is required to transport your child.  Tell your kids they should never get into a car with someone who does not know the code word.  Share the code word with your children and other adults you trust.  Change the word as often as needed.

• Teach your kids about the common lures used by abductors.  Often, a kidnapper appeals to victims by asking the child to help find a lost animal.  Sometimes, the stranger will ask a child for directions.  Occasionally, abductors know the child’s name or the names of the child’s parents.  Perpetrators attempt to use this knowledge to gain the child’s trust.  You should tell your children that adults ask other adults for help when they are truly searching for lost pets, or when they need any other type of assistance.  Also, repeat to your children the importance of the family code word.  If a stranger knows the child’s name, but does not mention the code word, that stranger is probably a threat.

• Practice screaming with your children.  If a stranger attempts to talk to or grab your children, your children should know to shout, “No!” or “Fire!”  Try to recruit the help of other parents.  The group of your children can rehearse screaming at strangers by role-playing.

• Run, yell, and tell!  It makes sense to teach children as early as the age of four about what to do when being attacked by a stranger:  RUN, MAKE NOISE, TELL SOMEONE  Show your children some “safety havens” along routes usually taken so they know where to seek help—a police station, fire station, church, and retail shops.

Safe Winter Driving Tips

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it.  Driving in the winter means snow, sleet and ice that can lead to slower traffic, hazardous road conditions, hot tempers and unforeseen dangers.  If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared and that you know how to handle road conditions  To help you make it safely through winter, here are some suggestions from the National Safety Council to make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared.

WINTERIZE YOUR CAR

NECESSARY EQUIPMENT

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES

DRIVING SAFELY ON ICY ROADS

IF YOUR REAR WHEELS SKID

IF YOUR FRONT WHEELS SKID

IF YOU GET STUCK

IF YOU BECOME STRANDED

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM HOME INVASION

Home Invasions, when criminals force their way into an occupied home, apartment or hotel room to commit a robbery or other crimes, are increasing at an alarming rate.  This is one of the most frightening and potentially dangerous crimes that can occur to a family because it violates our private space, the place that we think of as our sanctuary.

Thieves are getting bolder and more violent.  Their attacks are planned in the belief that their intended victims will be caught unaware and surprised.  Since an invader knows you are not expecting what he has planned for you, surprise is his best weapon.  Police departments are constantly telling people NOT TO open the door to an unannounced delivery or supposed repairman.  Yet it seems this caution is largely ignored.  Here are some of the tricks invaders like to use to fool you into letting them in:

• GAS LEAK INSPECTION:  A person dressed in a hard hat and possibly a forged ID tag will come to your door and say he has been called because of a gas leak in the neighborhood.  Do not let him in your house.  In reality, gas companies don’t check for gas leaks in your home unless you’ve called them.  Their duties only are to inspect and repair the gas lines in the ground throughout your area, not in your home.  Stop and think about it.  If there were a gas leak in your home, you would smell it.  Gas companies put special ingredients into the gas so to make sure you will smell any gas leak.
• FLOWER or SMALL PACKAGE DELIVERY: Flowers and gifts are hard to resist.  If someone tries to deliver flowers or a small package do not let them in.  They do not have to come into your house to deliver a small package.  You will know about any large package to be delivered and brought into your home since large deliveries are always planned. If the person is insistent for you to open your door, especially if there is no special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary, etc. this should give you cause for concern.  Call the police immediately.
• ELECTRIC COMPANY REPAIRMAN: There in no reason for an electric company repairman to ask to come into your home.  Their responsibility is only to work on the power lines outside of your home.  If you had a problem in your home and you have called a licensed electrician, you should know the electrician you called and ask for his identification when he arrives.  If there is a question as to who he really is do not call the phone number he gives you.  Look up the company’s number in the phone book to confirm his identity.  All electricians have to be licensed and carry the proper identification with them.
• ALARM REPAIRMAN: Most people who have an alarm system have a sign posted in front of their home.  This is a warning to a would-be criminal that you are protected by a security system.  An invader might see this sign and pose as an alarm repairman here to do preventive maintenance on your system or to check its operation.  Do not believe this claim.  These calls are usually planned ahead of time and every alarm repairman is required to be licensed by his state.  They ALL have to carry a picture ID and have passed a security check by his company and state licensing commission.   Do not confirm his identity by using the number he gives you.
• Have all emergency numbers posted somewhere in your home with easy access.  Have your doctor, alarm company, spouse’s work numbers, cell phones, gas, water and electric companies’ numbers VISIBLY listed.

Home Invasion Methods

Home invasion robbers often work at night and on weekends when homes are more likely to be occupied.  The home invader will sometimes target the resident as well as the dwelling.  The selection process may include a woman living alone, a wealthy senior citizen or a handicapped person, for example.  It is not unheard of for a robber to follow you home based on the value of the car you are driving or the jewelry you are wearing.  Some home invaders might have been in your home before as a delivery person, installer or repair vendor. Home robbers rarely work alone and rely on an overwhelming physical confrontation to gain initial control and instill fear in you.  The greatest violence usually occurs during the initial sixty seconds of the confrontation and home invaders often come prepared with handcuffs, rope, duct tape, and firearms.  Some in-home robbers appear to enjoy the intimidation, domination, and violence they cause—they thrive on the power they exert over their victims.

Home invaders know that they won’t have to overcome alarm systems when the home is occupied or be worried about video cameras and silent alarms.  Unlike when they rob a retail store, home invaders expect privacy once inside your home and won’t have to deal with the police suddenly driving up or customers walking in.  Once the offenders take control of a residence they can force the occupants to open safes, locate hidden valuables, supply keys to the family car, and PIN numbers to their ATM cards.  Home invaders will try to increase their escape time by disabling the phones and sometimes will leave their victims bound or incapacitated.  It is not unheard of for robbers to load up the victim’s car with valuables and drive away without anyone in the neighborhood taking notice.

Prevention Steps

If you can delay a home invader at the point of entry then you have a chance of deterring them or have time to call the police.  A solid core door, strong locks with reinforced strike plates, and reinforced window devices will stop most forced entries.  Some homeowners build safe rooms inside their home to allow them to retreat or escape violence while giving them valuable time to call the police.

The weakest home security link is the home occupant who fails to lock doors or windows or who will open the door without question at the sound of a knock.  The best defense against home invasion is education and planning.  Parents should hold a family meeting to discuss how to answer the door when someone knocks.  Another important topic is how to act should your home or family be invaded.  Once you know how home robbers work, you can effectively prevent most occurrences.

Remember these important security steps:

• Never open the door to strangers or solicitors
• Install solid core doors, heavy duty locks, and window security devices
• Lock all doors, windows, and garages at all times
• Use four three-inch screws to secure heavy duty lock strike plates in the door frame
• Use the door peephole BEFORE opening the door
• Use your porch light to help you to see clearly outside
• Never rely on a chain-latch as a barrier to partially open the door
• Call the police if the stranger acts suspicious
• Alert your neighbors to suspicious solicitors
• Hold a family meeting to discuss home security plans
• Set the home perimeter alarm at night, if you have one

Your own alertness and vigilant behavior are your best safeguards against damage

For more information on other ways to protect your home such as getting a Free Home Alarm System , check out NightWatch today!

HOW TO MAKE YOUR HOME BURGLAR PROOF

Each year in the U.S. there are more than five million home burglaries and a surprising nine out of ten of these crimes are preventable!  You can cut your risk of being burglarized vastly by taking simple steps to make your home more difficult to enter and less enticing to would-be burglars.
Here are 10 mistakes that burglars WANT you to make—check this list to avoid making them:

1. Leave your doors unlocked.
2. Leave your windows unlocked.
3. Leave your tool shed unlocked.
4. Build a high fence/private yard. Private secluded yards allow burglars to operate in secrecy!
5. Don’t install outdoor lighting.
6. Don’t have a home security system.
7. Leave your keys in the car in the driveway/garage.
8. Use a webcam as “home surveillance system.”  This will be no help when the thief is wearing a mask—and who is available to constantly check the constant feed and from where?
9. Don‘t bolt down your safes.  There’s nothing keeping an able-bodied thief from just carrying your safe—and all its precious contents– away with him.
10. Trust in “hidden keys.”  Your hiding places aren’t going to fool burglars for a minute—after all, they steal from strangers for a living!

THREE GREAT WEAPONS IN THE FIGHT TO PREVENT BURGLARIES: LIGHT, TIME AND NOISE

Light

• Mount exterior lights out of reach where burglars can’t easily unscrew bulbs.

• Purchase and install motion-sensitive lights, now available at relatively low prices.

• Use a variable light timer to activate lights inside your home.

• Trim trees and shrubs near doors and windows so burglars can’t hide in the shadows

Time

Make it time-consuming for a burglar to break into your home:

• Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors.

• Install double-key locks in doors which contain glass.  This will keep a burglar from being able to open the door simply by breaking the glass and reaching through.  (Note: Be sure to keep the key in designated place, for escape in case of fire).

• Place additional locks on all windows and patio doors.

Noise

• Get a dog.  You don’t need a large attack dog; even a small dog creates a disturbance that burglars would prefer to avoid.

• Whenever possible, have someone care for your dogs in your home while you’re away, instead of boarding them.

• If you can afford it, install an alarm system that will alert neighbors of a burglar’s presence.  Most systems can even summon local police directly.  Don’t forget to check the Alarm Code.

Other tips to prevent break-ins:

• Think like a burglar.  “Case” your home the way a burglar would and look for easy ways to get in.

• Be sure valuables like electronic devices and artwork are not visible from the street.

• Be sure to lock up ladders and tools which could be used to break in.

• Work together with your neighbors.  Organize a Neighborhood Watch and let your neighbors know when you will be away for an extended period.

• While on vacation, have someone pick up your newspapers and mail, so that you don’t advertise your absence.

• Display your house number conspicuously and have it well illuminated.  This will help police and emergency personnel find your home quickly.

Just in Case…

Sometimes, all your efforts won’t stop a determined burglar.  It’s wise to take some precautions that will help you get your property back should a criminal successfully break into your home:

• Make a list of your belongings, being sure to keep receipts, and periodically update this list.

• Keep copies of your inventory list and receipts in a safe deposit box or with a friend.

• You may choose to photograph and/or videotape your possessions to create a record of what you own.

• Engrave your valuables with an identification or mark to deter burglary and to prove ownership should the article be stolen and recovered by the police.

• Be sure you have the right insurance coverage.  You may need to purchase additional coverage to protect special items like expensive jewelry or rare antiques.

• If you don’t own your home, consider buying a renter’s policy.  Your landlord will generally not be responsible for your possessions.

Follow simple burglar-proofing precautions consistently for your safety and peace of mind.

Check out more Home Safety articles from NightWatch Protection today!

Neighborhood Watches Are More Important Than Ever

While it’s important to have a home security and safety plan for your house and your property, it’s really worth considering your neighborhood as well. Especially, during an economic downturn, neighborhood watch groups are proving to be a first line of defense in battling property crimes. Matt Peskin, Executive Director of the National Association of Town Watch, estimates that there are about 20,000 neighborhood watch groups nationwide, and reports that there has been an increase in requests for information on starting groups from all over the country including urban, suburban and rural communities.

Martin Floss, Director of the Institute for Law and Justice at Hilbert College in Hamburg, New York, said that as the economy worsens, property crimes tend to increase. “Well-trained neighborhood watch groups can be great assets to local law enforcement,” Floss said. “If you can get people to organize, to look out for each other and to work closely with the police, that is only going to do good things,” he said.

Neighborhood Watch provides citizens with the opportunity to make their neighborhoods safer and improve the quality of life. All Neighborhood Watches share one basic idea: that bringing community members together to reestablish control of their neighborhoods promotes an increased quality of life and reduces the crime rate in that area. The reason for this effectiveness is rather simple: Involving community members in watch programs decreases opportunities for criminals to commit crime. Neighborhood Watch programs generally follow one or both of two approaches: opportunity reduction or social problems.

THE OPPORTUNITY REDUCTION APPROACH focuses on crime reduction through observation to restore informal control and a strong sense of neighborhood. Neighborhoods can post signs showing a Neighborhood Watch is in effect, and can make its presence known through public meetings and local advertising. These public statements help de-victimize neighborhoods and broadcast citizen-readiness to potential criminals.

THE SOCIAL PROBLEMS APPROACH typically addresses certain issues in the neighborhood that may be linked with higher levels of crime. Programs that target youth, such as athletic activities, drug programs, tutoring, etc., are often offered. The main goal of these programs is to provide young people with alternative and positive activities that not only occupy their time, but also prove them with opportunities to increase their skills and their self-image—and to become assets—not threats–to their neighborhoods.

Starting and Maintaining a Neighborhood Watch
What does it take to start and maintain an effective Neighborhood Watch Program? Here are five fundamental steps:

• MAP OUT STRATEGIES that address the problems in your area. From the beginning stages of a Neighborhood Watch effort, it is essential to involve the neighborhood and identify ways to deal with the specific local crime patterns.

• BUILD A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS AND RESIDENTS. This is not always an easy hurdle to overcome since citizens are often angry with law enforcement for not doing anything about the crime problem in their community. For a Neighborhood Watch program to be successful, it is essential that officers understand the needs of a neighborhood and work as role models for neighborhood crime prevention efforts.

• ASSESS THE NEEDS OF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. In many cases, law enforcement and community members do not have the same focus. For instance, law enforcement may be focusing their attention on addressing major crimes throughout the city while community members may be more concerned about local crimes such as bicycle thefts or graffiti, which are considered minor from a police standpoint. Effective Neighborhood Watch programs unite law enforcement and residents and encourage them to collectively determine what problems should be addressed and how.

• SELECT AND TRAIN AN ACTIVE BODY OF VOLUNTEERS led by organized, motivated and locally respected leaders. Without motivation and organization, volunteers may be uninspired to participate and will quit out of frustration.

• DEVELOP MEANINGFUL PROJECTS. Often, after a Neighborhood Watch has addressed its original issue, members lose interest. It is important for leaders to remain enthusiastic. Constantly create and embark upon new projects so that there is always a goal towards which the team is aspiring. Projects may include building a neighborhood playground or painting over graffiti, for instance.

Even with all of these steps in place, success does not happen overnight. Creating truly effective Neighborhood Watch programs takes patience, planning, and enthusiasm. Since studies show that once a Neighborhood Watch program deteriorates, criminals notice and quickly resume illegal activities, there is certainly motivation to strive towards success.

There are many ways in which the Neighborhood Watch concept can be put to use. One of the most important elements is to make sure that every person involved knows what to do when suspicious activity is noticed. For more details on how to start and maintain a successful Neighborhood Watch program in your area, see USAonWatch.org, a program of the National Sheriffs’ Association and the national site for neighborhood crime watch information.

DON’T LET THIEVES TAKE YOUR CAR: TIPS TO AVOID VEHICLE THEFT

You walk out to your car only to discover – nothing!  Where’s my car?  Can you image the feeling when you realize that your vehicle has just been stolen?
It could be the work of an organized theft ring or just a random individual crime.  In any case, auto theft is big business.  Car thefts seem to occur with greater frequency in places where large groups of cars are parked for extended periods of time: shopping centers, colleges, sporting events, movie theaters and large apartment complexes.  Car thefts can occur anytime — at random on different days of the week and times of the day, depending on the locations.

On average, according to the Insurance Information Institute, a vehicle is stolen every 29 seconds in the United States at a cost of about $7.4 billion a year.  Your insurance will cover this type of loss ONLY if you have comprehensive coverage.  A deductible may or may not apply, depending on the specifics of your policy.  The number and related cost of insured cars stolen directly affect the price you pay for your insurance premiums.

By taking a few precautions, you can make your vehicle–and your wallet–less vulnerable.

• Never leave your car running unattended, even to dash into a business, store, etc.  Many vehicles are stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up.  Leaving your key in an unattended motor vehicle is a crime in some states.
• Never leave any keys in the car or ignition, inside a locked garage, or in hide-a-key boxes.  Never hide a second set of keys in your car.  Extra keys can easily be found if a car thief takes time to look.  Nearly 20% of all vehicles stolen had the keys in them.
• Never leave valuables visible, even if your car is locked.  Put them in the trunk out of sight.
• Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle title or credit cards in your vehicle.
• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.  Approximately 50% of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
• Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas.  Over half of all vehicle thefts occur at night
• Always park with your wheels turned towards the curb: make your car tough to tow away.  Wheels should also be turned to the side in driveways and parking lots.  If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway.  Front-wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first.
• Always use your emergency brake when parking.  In addition to ensuring safety, using the emergency brake makes your car harder to tow.
• Always use your garage: if you have a garage, take the time to use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.  When parking in a garage, lock the garage door and your vehicles—this easy precaution greatly improves the chances of deterring a thief.

These additional security actions will help protect your vehicle:

• Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes.  These devices will deter some criminals.
• Consider purchasing a vehicle theft-tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently-stolen model vehicles.
• Enable Alarms.  Loud warnings sound when doors/hood/trunk are opened. Optional sensors include glass breakage, motion, tampering and towing.  Panic buttons, back-up batteries, flashing parking lights or headlights and automatic engine-disable features are also recommended
• If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.
• In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid.  This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts.
• Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you.  If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.

Many vehicles today come with some type of security system from the factory.  Normally there are upgraded systems available if you ask.  The best choices are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can’t be started or driven.  If all efforts fail and your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately.

Remember—you can help protect yourself by developing good safety habits such as protecting your home, family, and loved ones by installing a free ADT Home Monitored Alarm System today!

Fire Safety 101

Did you know that nationwide, every three hours a civilian dies from a house fire? It is very important to be well educated and prepared on how you can help to prevent fires from starting in the first place, and what to do if you encounter a fire.

Most Common Types of Fires:

Heating Fires – Heating fires are the second leading cause of house fires in America. Heating fires can be caused by a number of appliances; from central heating, wood or coal heaters and portable heaters. It is very important to ensure that you properly clean and filter all of your heating devices according to the manuals instructions. With portable heaters, make sure that they stand clear of any objects and that they have enough room for ventilation. If possible, try to only purchase models that offer safety features such as automatic shut off.

Smoking Fires – Most smoking fires are a result of a cigarette being abandoned or forgotten about. If you are going to smoke, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Some ways to help prevent smoking fires is to never smoke in bed, don’t smoke if you are tired, and don’t smoke around furniture. Smoking fires can easily be prevented.

Electric Fires – Electric fires are mainly caused due to overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. In order to help prevent electrical fires from starting in the first place, be sure to check your electrical appliances and wiring often. Keep electrical appliances as far away from wet areas as possible; especially the bathroom.

Cooking Fires – Cooking fires can be caused by a number of situations such as forgetting something on the stove, or faulty kitchen equipment. It is important to stay focused when you are cooking so that you don’t forget about something you put in the oven. An easy way to help you in doing this is to set a kitchen timer. If a grease fire emerges, do not throw water on it because the water will splatter the flames. Instead, try to cover the fire so put out the flames.

Helpful Tips:

Invest in a smoke detector – Make sure that your smoke detector is on at all times. Be sure to routinely check your smoke detector to make sure that it is working properly.

Create a Fire Escape Plan – Plan out and practice a fire escape plan with your family and loved ones. Be sure to have an alternative plan.

Make exiting a priority – The second you realize there is a fire, try to escape right away. Don’t waste your time trying to gather your belongings. Make escaping your focus, to help protect your safety.

Feel the Door – When exiting the room you are in, feel the door with the back of your hand as high up as you can reach as a sign if there is a fire on the other side. If it is hot, seek an alternative route. If it is cold, open it a crack to check if the fire is on the other side.

Call 911 – Try to call 911 as soon as you are safe. Ask a neighbor if you can use their phone to call local authorities.

While we all hope to never encounter a dangerous fire situation, it is important to be well aware of what can cause fires, how to help prevent them from starting, and what to do in the event of a fire.

Prevention is the Key to Avoiding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, but at high levels it can kill a person in minutes.  Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal is burned.  Hundreds of people die accidentally every year from CO poisoning caused by malfunctioning or improperly used fuel-burning appliances.  Even more die from CO produced by idling cars.  It is important to know the symptoms of CO poisoning:
At moderate levels you can get severe headaches, become dizzy, mentally confused, nauseated or faint.  Low levels can cause shortness of breath, mild nausea, mild headaches and may have longer-term effects on your health.  Since many of these symptoms are similar to those of flu, food poisoning or other ailments, you may not think that CO poisoning is the cause.

What To Do If You Think You Have Symptoms Of Co Poisoning:

1. GET FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. Open doors and windows, turn off combustion appliances and LEAVE THE HOUSE.
2. GO TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM and tell the physician you suspect CO poisoning. If CO poisoning has occurred, it can often be diagnosed by a blood test done soon after exposure.
3. BE PREPARED to answer the following questions for the doctor:

• Do your symptoms occur only in the house? Do they disappear or decrease when you leave home and reappear when you return?
• Is anyone else in your household complaining of similar symptoms? Did everyone’s symptoms appear about the same time?
• Are you using any fuel-burning appliances in the home?
• Has anyone inspected your appliances lately? Are you certain they are working properly?
• Do you have an installed, properly-functioning CO detector in your house?

Important Steps You Should Take to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Danger:
ALWAYS:

• Always have your fuel-burning appliances — including oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves — inspected by a trained professional at the beginning of every heating season.  Make certain that the flues and chimneys are connected, in good condition, and not blocked.
• Always choose appliances that vent their fumes to the outside whenever possible, have them properly installed, and maintain them according to manufacturers’ instructions.  If you cannot avoid using an unvented gas or kerosene space heater, carefully follow the cautions that come with the device.  Use the proper fuel and keep doors to the rest of the house open.  Crack a window to make sure you have enough air for ventilation and proper fuel-burning.
• Avoid doing anything that increases your risk of CO poisoning:

NEVER:

• Never idle the car in a garage — even if the garage door to the outside is open.  Fumes can build up very quickly.
• Never use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.
• Never use a charcoal grill indoors — even in a fireplace.
• Never sleep in any room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.
• Never use any gasoline-powered engines (mowers, weed trimmers, snow-blowers, chain saws, small engines or generators) in enclosed spaces.
• Never ignore symptoms, particularly if more than one person is feeling them.  You could lose consciousness and die if you do nothing.

How to Choose and Use a Carbon Monoxide Detector:
Carbon Monoxide Detectors are widely available in stores and you should consider buying one as a back-up –BUT NOT AS A REPLACEMENT– for proper use and maintenance of your fuel-burning appliances. However, the technology of CO detectors is still developing and they are not generally considered to be as reliable as smoke detectors.  Some CO detectors have been laboratory-tested and their performance varied.  When a smoke detector goes off, you can easily confirm the cause of the alarm, but CO is invisible and odorless, so it’s harder to tell if an alarm is false or warns of a real emergency.  CO Detector Guidelines:

• Don’t let buying a CO detector lull you into a false sense of security.  Preventing CO from becoming a problem in your home is better than relying on an alarm.
• Research CO detector features instead of selecting solely by cost.  Non-governmental organizations such as Consumers Union (publisher of Consumer Reports), the American Gas Association and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) can help you make an informed decision. Look for UL certification on any detector you purchase.
• Carefully follow manufacturers’ instructions for its placement, use and maintenance.

What to Do If the CO detector alarm goes off:

• Make sure it is your CO detector and not your smoke detector.
• Check to see if any member of the household is experiencing symptoms of poisoning.
• If they are, get them out of the house immediately and seek medical attention. Tell the doctor that you suspect CO poisoning.
• Even if no one is feeling symptoms, ventilate the home with fresh air, turn off all potential sources of CO — your oil or gas furnace, gas water heater, gas range and oven, gas dryer, gas or kerosene space heater and any vehicle or small engine.

For more information on how to reduce your risks from CO, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772 or see www.cpsc.gov . Another way to help keep your family safe in your home is to have a FREE Home Security Evaluation done by Nightwatch Protection, Inc.