The Custom Communicator

Walking around on the ice and snow can be dangerous so keep these tips in mind and stay safe. Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. Use special care when getting in and out of vehicles. Walk in designated walkways, shortcuts over snow piles can be dangerous. Watch where you are going. When walking on ice take short steps or shuffle for stability. If you fall, bend your head forward so you won’t slam your head on the pavement. Also, when you walk into buildings watch for wet and slippery entryways.

Snow shoveling safety tips. Dress in layers, you may get over heated fast. Don’t drink caffeine or smoke just beforehand. Stretch your muscles before you head out the door. Use a small shovel with light loads, go slow and toss the snow short distances, don’t try to overdo it. Maintain proper balance and keep your shovel close to your body when you lift. Bend at the knees and let your legs do the lifting. If you start to breathe heavy, sweat or experience pain take a break or stop all together. Better yet, hire some young high school kids to do the work for you.

Playing outdoors, don’t forget that the sun can still cause sunburn in the winter, especially when it reflects off snow so make sure you are your family have sun protection. Going ice staking? Never skate alone don’t chew gum or eat while you are skating. Consider having your children wear a helmet. Going snow shoeing or cross country skiing? Know your route, bring water, dress in layers, check the weather before heading out. Stay on the trail, obey all posted signs and bring your cell phone to call for help.

Happy New Year! After the Holidays is a great time to get outside and enjoy from fresh air. Here are some things to keep in mind to be safe. Dress yourself and children in layers and set reasonable time limits on outdoor play based on the weather. If you are going sledding keep your sledders away from motor vehicles and keep your young children away from the path of older children. Consider having your child wear a helmet. Make sure your path is free of obstructions like trees or fences and avoid crowded areas.

Planning your holiday vacation keep these vacation security tips in mind. Have a trusted neighbor shovel your walk and remove any flyers, packages or mail. Set your light timers so it looks like someone is home. Unplug major appliances to reduce the risk of electric fires and cut back on energy bills. Keep your valuables out of view. Don’t announce your travel plans online, don’t hide a key outside! Remember to call us if your system is monitored so we know where to reach you when your home is unattended.

We can all agree no one likes false alarms. The good news is that false alarm reduction is under your control. You need to make sure all the users know how to arm and disarm the system, don’t forget about new employees, dog walkers and babysitters. Keep your call list up to date. Make sure we know who is an approved user. If you have a device that is going into trouble let us come by do a service call. Check out our website for more false alarm reduction tips.

Getting ready to put up your tree and hang those decorations? Keep these safety tips in mind. Keep your tree away from fireplaces and radiators, keep it watered and don’t let it block doorways. Do not overload your extension cords with lights; keep it to a max of 3 strings of lights. Replace burned out bulbs. When using outdoor lights be sure they are certified for outdoor use and stay clear of power lines when you are hanging your lights. Turn off the lights when you go to bed or leave the house.

Here are some shopping safety tips to keep in mind this shopping season. When out shopping, avoid wearing expensive jewelry. If possible don’t carry a purse and avoid carrying a large amount of cash, instead pay with your credit card. Avoid overloading yourself with packages. Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason; unfortunately there are con-artists out there with various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings. Keep off your cell phone while going to and from your car, again be aware of your surroundings.

Now is the time to make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter it might be a good idea to get a tune up. Then you need to equip your vehicle with winter survival supplies which should include the following: flashlight and extra batteries, reflective triangles, compass, first aid kit, extra windshield washer fluid, ice scraper, snow brush, matches in a waterproof container, high-energy foods that are non-perishable. Don’t forget an extra set of mittens, socks, boots, cap and blankets if you travel long distances often. As the old saying goes…”It’s better to be safe than sorry”.

Is your home ready for winter weather? Here is a quick to do list before winter really hits. If you have poor insulation in your attic it is not too late to add insulation to help bring energy costs down. Install a programmable thermostat in your home so you can automatically turn it down at night and during times where the house is empty. Caulk and weather-strip all doors and windows that need it. Install your storm windows or cover them with plastic. Turn off your exterior water. Service your snow-removal equipment. Don’t forget to have your chimney and flue inspected.