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CPSC Launches "Drive to 1 Million" Recall Initiative
Agency Stresses Search for Recalled Products during Spring Cleaning

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Spring is a much anticipated time of year. And while there may be many things consumers look forward to in springtime, spring cleaning isn't necessarily one of them. Although it may be a dreaded chore, consumers look to remove old clutter, make room for the new and pull their seasonal items out of storage. While consumers are preparing to clean, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is encouraging consumers to spring clean for safety.

In doing so, CPSC is launching the new "Drive to 1 Million" initiative. The goal: to sign-up at least 1 million consumers to receive life-saving information electronically through CPSC's e-mail notification project. Consumers can receive notice of recall information as it is released by signing up at www.cpsc.gov -- Signing up is free, it's fast, and it could save your life or the life of a family member.

"It is vital for consumers to check their own homes for hazardous products that have been recalled," said Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. "Consumers can literally save lives with the click of their computer mouse."

The agency is not only calling on consumers to go to the Web site on their own, but is asking retailers to assist in getting the word out to consumers. Various messaging techniques will be used in the coming weeks and months to drive consumers to the CPSC Web site.

As closets, garages and other storage areas are cleared out and cleaned, CPSC is asking consumers to keep safety in mind and be on the lookout for hazardous recalled products that could be deadly. CPSC, in a record year last year, recalled 466 products. Yet, not everyone gets the word. Some product recalls may have been announced when products were put away for the season or consumers may not have heard about the recall when it was announced.

For example, Selina Patten, of Manassas, Va., had a close call when the recalled plastic nail from a Playskool toy tool bench became lodged in the throat of her 3-year-old daughter. She was able to remove the nail before serious injury occurred. She later discovered the product had been recalled after the death of two toddlers, though she did not hear about it.

In a taped message released at today's CPSC press conference, Ms. Patten urged everyone to sign-up to receive recall information. "Most of all register with CPSC. Get that e-mail that may save your child's life," said Ms. Patten.

Additional categories of recalls on CPSC's Web site include the following that consumers should check when doing their spring cleaning:

  • Outdoor products: such as grills and outdoor furniture for porch or patio
  • Outdoor power equipment: air compressors and gas pool heaters
  • Children's products: outerwear with drawstrings, necklaces that contain lead, battery packs for toy vehicles, and flashing pacifiers
  • Power tools: cut-out tools, nailers, circular saws and pressure washers
  • Household products: fans, candles
  • Electronics: computer batteries, remote controls

For more information, go to CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov, or call the hotline at (800) 638-2772 anytime.
CPSC Urges New Parents to Adopt Lifesaving Routine to Prevent Child Poisonings
Poison Prevention Has Saved More Than 900 Lives Since the 1970s

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Every day thousands of new parents assume the responsibility of caring for and protecting a child. Many of these first-time caregivers are unaware of the dangers of unintentional poisonings often related to medicines and household products commonly found in the home, such as personal care products, over-the-counter pain relievers and cleaning substances.

From 2002 through 2004, about 36 children younger than 5 died each year as a result of ingesting poisonous substances found in and around the home. In 2005 about 91,000 young children visited hospital emergency rooms and more than one million calls were placed to poison control centers as a result of unintentional poisoning.

"For most first-time parents and caregivers, poison prevention messaging is new," said CPSC Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. "It is an especially important message to understand and act upon."

Young children are curious and use their home environment as a classroom - a place to learn and explore. Exploring for younger children is often done by mouthing objects which puts them at greater risk of unintentional poisonings. For young children who are unable to read, a bottle of orange-scented household cleaner may be mistaken for orange juice; the medicine in the pill container can look a lot like small candies; and baby oil, which can be deadly if ingested, can resemble a clear drink.

To prevent these incidents, CPSC recommends the following safety steps:
  1. Keep all household chemicals and medicines locked up, out of sight and out of reach.
  2. Use child-resistant packaging properly by closing the container securely after each use. Some products also come in child-resistant blister cards, which avoid the need to re-secure.
  3. Call 800-222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning.
  4. When products are in use, never let young children out of your sight, even if you must take them along when answering the phone or doorbell.
  5. Keep items in original containers.
  6. Leave the original labels on all products, and read the label before using to understand correct use and dosage.
  7. Do not put decorative lamps and candles that contain lamp oil where children can reach them. Lamp oil can be very toxic if ingested by young children.
  8. Always turn the light on when giving or taking medicine. Check the dosage every time.
  9. Avoid taking medicine in front of children. Refer to medicine as "medicine," not "candy."
  10. Clean out the medicine cabinet periodically and safely dispose of unneeded and outdated medicines.

To request poison prevention publications, visit www.poisonprevention.org

To get more information on CPSC and National Poison Prevention week, please go to:
 http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/pppa/ppw07.html
Pandemic Preparedness
www.pandemicflu.gov
www.cdc.gov
www.who.int
www.fda.gov
 www.uschamber.com
Employee Good Health
Many diseases are spread by poor coughing and sneezing techniques. Most people put their hands in front of their mouths and noses to stop germs from getting into the air. Unfortunately, this technique puts the germs on their hands. The germs are then spread to telephones and doorknobs and many other surfaces from which they are then picked up by the next user. This is how colds spread quickly through schools and workplaces, and how the flu spreads quickly through entire cities. It would be very easy to cut this mode of infection drastically by simply getting people to cough and sneeze properly.

The Centers for Disease Control of the U.S. and of several states have put forth posters and public service announcements trying to get people to change the way they cough and sneeze. Only a small fraction of the population has adopted safe techniques. With colds always around the corner, with tuberculosis on the rise, and with bird flu threatening to impair the health and welfare of the nation, all citizens should adopt proper coughing and sneezing techniques.

This five minute video was designed to encourage people to cough and sneeze according to the infection control guidelines put forth by the Center for Disease Control. It is aimed at the common citizen. Its message is serious, but it is presented with humor in such a way that it engages the viewer's attention for a full five minutes while the message is repeated in interesting new ways. It can be enjoyed by individuals, but it is even more fun to watch in groups, resulting in community reinforcement. It has been used in hospitals and schools with great success. It actually makes people change the way they cough and sneeze.

This video was produced with the assistance of three infectious disease doctors, two hospitals, and the Maine Medical Association, to whom the author is grateful. The author, Ben Lounsbury MD, is an Ear, Nose and Throat physician.
Underage Drinking

Keg parties, underage drinking on agenda after Acreage shootings
By Maria Herrera
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Posted October 15 2006

Teenage keg parties are as common as prom and homecoming games.

But when a recent gathering in The Acreage left two young men dead and one in jail accused of two counts of second-degree murder, the Palm Beach County Substance Abuse Coalition went to work.

"We found out that there are so many [keg parties] out there, that we have to do something to stop them," coalition coordinator Doris Carroll said.

Parents and residents of The Acreage and nearby areas in Loxahatchee are concerned the quiet western neighborhoods of 1- and 2-acre lots have become hot spots for keg parties and underage drinking.

The coalition plans to hold an emergency town hall meeting to discuss the problem Wednesday at Seminole Ridge High School.

Carroll said the community is devastated by incidents such as the one in The Acreage in late August, when John Dorsey, 20, shot and killed Stephen Bunting, 20, and John Lott, 19, at a keg party.

Witnesses told police Lott and Bunting were drinking and got into a fight with Dorsey, who also was drinking. Dorsey fired his gun twice, hitting Lott and Bunting once each in the chest, police said. They died on the scene.

From 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving of Palm Beach, the Safety Council and Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office are to be part of a panel discussion and community-resource fair to educate teens about the dangers of drinking and show parents how to talk to their children about it.

Carroll said the Underage Drinking Task Force, formed two weeks before the Acreage shooting, found through an informal poll that teens were pitching tents at keg parties so they could have a place to pass out after a night of drinking. High school students also mingle regularly with an older crowd.

"The associated behavior is delinquent and violent behavior, and sex and drug abuse," she said. "It's a slippery slope."

The task force also found the average age to start drinking is 11.

The Sheriff's Office hopes to compile a history of incidents related to underage drinking, including those that involve adults.

"The whole mind-set of allowing minors to drink on your property has serious consequences," said Capt. Jeff Lindskoog, of the Sheriff's Office Community Services division. "Bringing the forum to the community hopefully makes a strong point that this is serious."
Party Safely This Holiday Season

Alcohol is often a big part of holiday celebrations.  Alcohol should not be the main attraction at holiday parties, and there are ways to organize fun, yet safe, festivities that will prevent family and friends from becoming the next alcohol- or drug-related statistic.

Get the Party Started

Encourage lively conversation and group activities, such as games that keep the focus on fun-not alcohol. Prepare plenty of foods so guests will not drink on an empty stomach, and avoid too many salty foods which tend to make people thirsty. Never serve alcohol to someone under the legal drinking age,  and serve “mocktails” for designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink alcohol.

Don’t let guests mix their own drinks  Choose a reliable bartender who abstains from alcohol at the party and who can keep track of the size and number of drinks that guests consume.

Close the bar 90 minutes before the party ends and serve a great dessert treat with coffee.  Remember that only time sobers someone who has been drinking.

If you prepare an alcoholic punch, use a non-carbonated base, like fruit juice. Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream faster with a carbonated base. 

If one of your guests has had too much to drink…

Remember your actions could save your friends life!  Offer to let that guest spend the night, call a cab, or ask a sober guest to drive the intoxicated person home.  (See the sidebar for another alternative.)

Remember also that you could be held responsible for any costs associated with your guest’s crash, including medical bills, property damage, and emotional pain and suffering.

Myths  & Facts

   Myth:  Coffee can sober up someone who has had too much to drink.
   Fact:  Only time sobers.  It takes about one hour to oxidize each drink
   Myth:  Hard liquor is stronger than beer or wine.
   Fact:  A 12 oz. Glass of beer, a 5 oz. Glass of wine, contains the same amount of alcohol and        intoxication potential as 1.5 oz. of liquor.

If you do spot a drunk driver, call 911 and say, this is a Mobile Eyes call, you will receive a $100.00 reward if an arrest is made.

Adapted from www.madd.org
Backpack Safety - Provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics

Backpacks are a popular and practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body’s strongest muscles.

However backpacks that are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can cause problems for children and teenagers. Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints. This can lead to severe back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems. Share these guidelines to help your family use backpacks safely.

Choose the right backpack. Look for the following:

  • Wide, padded shoulder straps – Narrow straps can dig into shoulders. This can cause pain and restrict circulation.

  • Two shoulder straps – Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly.

  • Padded back – A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and increase comfort.

  • Waist strap – A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly.

  • Lightweight backpack – The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load.

  • Rolling backpack – This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs. They may be difficult to roll in snow.

To prevent injury when using a backpack, do the following:

  • Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Wearing a backpack on one shoulder may increase curvature of the spine.

  • Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.

  • Pack light. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student’s total body weight.

  • Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.

  • Stop often at school lockers, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.

  • Bend using both knees, when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting a heavy backpack.

  • Learn back-strengthening exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack. Ask your pediatrician for advice.

Parents also can help in the following ways:

  • Encourage your child or teenager to tell you about pain or discomfort that may be caused by a heavy backpack. Do not ignore any back pain in a child or teenager. Ask your pediatrician for advice.

  • Talk to the school about lightening the load. Be sure the school allows students to stop at their lockers throughout the day. Team up with other parents to encourage changes.

  • Consider buying a second set of textbooks for your student to keep at home.

The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
Poison

The American Association of Poison Control Centers provides a toll-free hotline that connects Americans to poison treatment and prevention experts 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 Banner1-800-222-1222 National Poison Control Center

Post this number near your home phone. Be sure to give it to your babysitters and day care center as well as to all family members.

The hotline allows someone to call from anywhere in the United States and automatically be connected to specially trained nurses, pharmacists and doctors at the closest local poison center. These poison experts will respond to poison emergencies and answer poison-related questions about medicines, household products and other potentially dangerous substances. The service is free.

www.1-800-222-1222.info

UNITED STATES POISON CENTERS

On average, poison centers in the United States manage a poison exposure every 14 seconds. The vast majority - 77 percent - of these exposures can be treated over the phone, right where they happen, with telephone advice and assistance from poison center experts. If emergency medical care is needed to treat a poisoning, poison center experts provide information on treatment to emergency personnel and other health care providers. Additionally, the expert staff at poison centers are available to answer non- emergency poison-related questions.

The American Association of Poison Control Centers is a nationwide not-for-profit organization of poison centers and others interested in the prevention and treatment of poisoning.
Tips for Coping During the Hurricane Season
Jay Lee, Ph.D. and Doris Logan, MSW, CSWI

Because you are reading this article, you, or someone you know, may be in the process of recovering from some type of critical incident. Perhaps you experienced a flood, hurricane, or earthquake. Or maybe you have been in a serious accident or the victim of crime. Traumatic experiences or critical incidents such as these tend to be sudden and overwhelming. In some cases, there are no outwardly visible signs of physical injury, but there is nonetheless a serious emotional toll. It is common for people who have experienced traumatic situations to have very strong emotional reactions. Understanding normal responses to these abnormal events can aid you in coping effectively with your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and help you along the path to recovery.

What happens to people after a hurricane or other traumatic events?

Shock and denial are typical responses to disasters and other kinds of trauma, especially shortly after the event. Both shock and denial are normal protective reactions. Shock is a sudden and often intense disturbance of your emotional state that may leave you feeling stunned or dazed.
Denial involves your not acknowledging that something very stressful has happened, or not experiencing fully the intensity of the event. You may temporarily feel numb or disconnected from life.

As the initial shock subsides, reactions vary from one person to another. The following, however, are normal responses to a traumatic event: Feelings become intense and sometimes are unpredictable. You may become more irritable than usual, and your mood may change back and forth dramatically. You might be especially anxious or nervous, or even become depressed. Thoughts and behavior patterns are affected by the trauma. You might have repeated and vivid memories of the event. These flashbacks may occur for no apparent reason and may lead to physical reactions such as rapid heart beat or sweating. You may find it difficult to concentrate or make decisions, or become more easily confused. Sleep and eating patterns also may be disrupted.

Recurring emotional reactions are common. Anniversaries of the event, such as at one month or one year, as well as reminders such as TV announcements of hurricane season or the sounds of sirens, can trigger upsetting memories of the traumatic experience. These 'triggers' may be accompanied by fears that the stressful event will be repeated. Interpersonal relationships often become strained. Greater conflict, such as more frequent arguments with family members and coworkers, is common. On the other hand, you might become withdrawn and isolated and avoid your usual activities. Physical symptoms may accompany the extreme stress. For example, headaches, nausea and chest pain may result and may require medical attention. Pre-existing medical conditions may worsen due to the stress.

How do people respond differently over time?

It is important for you to realize that there is not one 'standard' pattern of reaction to the extreme stress of traumatic experiences. Some people respond immediately, while others have delayed reactions - sometimes months or even years later. Some have adverse effects for a long period, while others recover rather quickly. And reactions can change over time. Some who have suffered from trauma are energized initially by the event to help them with the challenge of coping, only to later become discouraged or depressed.

A number of factors tend to affect the length of time required for recovery, including the degree of intensity and loss. Events that last longer and pose a greater threat, and where loss of life or substantial loss of property is involved, often take longer to resolve. Also, a person's general ability to cope with emotionally challenging situations will affect the outcome. Individuals who have handled other difficult, stressful circumstances well may find it easier to cope with the trauma.

What about other stressful events preceding the traumatic experience?

Individuals faced with other emotionally challenging situations, such as serious health problems, family-related difficulties, legal or financial stresses, or have another mental health condition may have more intense reactions to the new stressful event and need more time to recover. The more stress in a person's life, the fewer resources they have to cope with a critical incident.

How can I help myself and my family?

There are a number of steps you can take to help restore emotional well being and sense of control following a traumatic experience:

* Give yourself time to heal. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life.

* Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.

* Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma.

* Communicate your experience in whatever ways feel comfortable to you - such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a journal. If your company or a professional in your community offers Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) services, it is VERY IMPORTANT to attend the group debriefings and/or utilize the Individual sessions via your EAP. CISM can often prevent long term consequences of traumatic impact.

* Find out about local support groups that often are available such as for those who have suffered from natural disasters, or for women who are victims of rape. These can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.

* Try to find groups led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals.

* Group discussion can help people realize that other individuals in the same circumstances often have similar reactions and emotions.

* Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Take time to care for yourself: emotionally and physically.

* Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities.

* Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible because these activities tend to be highly stressful.

* Become knowledgeable about what to expect as a result of trauma.

Additional web site resources listed below may help you with this learning process.

How do I take care of children's special needs?

The intense anxiety and fear that often follow a hurricane or other traumatic event can be especially troubling for children. Some may regress and demonstrate younger behaviors such as thumb sucking or bed wetting. Children may be more prone to nightmares and fear of sleeping alone. Performance in school may suffer. Other changes in behavior patterns may include throwing tantrums more frequently, or withdrawing and becoming more solitary.

There are several things parents and others who care for children can do to help alleviate the emotional consequences of trauma, including the following:

* Spend more time with children and let them be more dependent on you during the months following the trauma - for example, allowing your child to cling to you more often than usual. Physical affection is very comforting to children who have experienced trauma. Provide continued assurance that they are protected and safe.

* Provide play experiences to help relieve tension. Younger children in particular may find it easier to share their ideas and feelings about the event through non-verbal activities such as drawing.

* Encourage older children to speak with you, and with one another, about their thoughts and feelings. This helps reduce their confusion and anxiety related to the trauma. Respond to questions in terms they can comprehend. Reassure them repeatedly that you care about them and that you understand their fears and concerns.

* Keep regular schedules for activities such as eating, playing and going to bed to help restore a sense of security and normalcy.

When should I seek professional help?

Some people are able to cope effectively with the emotional and physical demands brought about by a natural disaster or other traumatic experience by using their own support systems. It is not unusual, however, to find that serious problems persist and continue to interfere with daily living. For example, some may feel overwhelming nervousness or lingering sadness that adversely affects job performance and interpersonal relationships.

Individuals with prolonged reactions that disrupt their daily functioning for more than one to three month should consult with an experienced mental health professional trained in Critical Incident Stress Management and Post Traumatic Stress. These professionals work with individuals affected by trauma to help them find constructive ways of dealing with the traumatic impact and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

With children, continual and aggressive emotional outbursts, serious problems at school, preoccupation with the traumatic event, continued and extreme withdrawal, and other signs of intense anxiety or emotional difficulties all point to the need for professional assistance. A qualified mental health professional can help such children and their parents understand and deal with thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that result from trauma.

Palm Beach County 2008 Hurricane Survival Guide

 

Copyright © 2003 Safety Council of Palm Beach County, Inc.