Safety training is something that every person in the world should have. Of course, this isn’t a logical option. So, that means that those who can have this type of training should have it. Safety training is not only about protecting you and your loved ones, but also the strangers that happen into your life. Because you just do not know when an accident will happen, you need to be prepared ahead of time. This is the most crucial part of safety training: getting it in time.
Safety training is more than just learning how to take care of a cut or a scrape. There are a number of different things that you will be needing to know how to do in your everyday life. For example, you may need to learn to help someone who is choking. You may need to help someone who has just fallen. You may also need to help someone who is having a heart attack or can no longer breath on their own.
Safety training can be taught through a variety of ways. For many people, it is taught through hospitals, doctor’s offices and through community centers. You can also find the training you need from organizations like the Red Cross. The point is not really where to get the training or what training to get, but to just get moving on it. Learn what you can so that you can help someone who is in need whenever it is needed.
Whether you need safety training for your job or because you realize the value in having it, there are many forms to learn. For example, you may learn what to do with chemicals or you may find out what is the best way to pick up a heavy box. On top of this, you will want to learn things that deal with your specific needs in the personal world such as food safety training. Safety training is necessary and helpful throughout lifes' many adventures.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Safety Training: The Need For Security
Secure your Computer for Safe Internet Usage
Labels: computer security, email scam, firewalls, identity theft, patch, pc security, phishing, virusFrom email to online banking and investing to shopping, today people are using their computers for many things that used to be done only offline. As we do these things on a more regular basis, unfortunately we open ourselves up to a new breed of criminals and their new weapons like spyware, viruses and email scams. While some may be looking to phish your personal information and identity for resale, others simply just want to use your computer as a platform from which to attack other unknowing targets. As our use of computers and the related potential for risk increased, it is import that we make sure we have taken steps to protect ourselves. Just like the advice of not walking alone at night, there are things we should and shouldn’t do on the internet. Below are a few easy, cost-effective things you can do to make your computer more secure.
- Viruses can cause your computer to fail unexpectedly so always make backups of important information and store in a safe place separate from your computer.
-Computer software is being continuously updated and criminals are continuously finding new ways to attack. Update and patch your operating system, web browser and software frequently. Because Microsoft’s operation systems like XP and Vista are on most home and business PCs, they are the biggest targets of fraudsters. Make sure you have the latest software by going to Microsoft’s website and running the update wizard. This will help you find the latest patches for your Windows computer. Also look for updates to any other Microsoft software you have at the same location.
-Install a personal firewall. A firewall is software that protects your computer by not letting some programs do things that could be dangerous. Without a good firewall, viruses, worms, Trojans, malware and adware can all easily access your computer from the Internet. There are a range of great firewall programs and hardware available at any budget. If you aren’t comfortable selecting or installing this type of software check with your local computer store for assistance.
-Review your browser and email settings for optimum security. Why should you do this? Active-X and JavaScript are often used by hackers to plant malicious programs into your computers. While cookies are relatively harmless in terms of security concerns, they do still track your movements on the Internet to build a profile of you. Consider setting your browser security setting for the “internet zone” to High, and your “trusted sites zone” to Medium Low.
-Install antivirus software and set for automatic updates so that you receive the most current versions. As with firewalls, there are great alternatives available on the internet and in stores. -Once you install software, though, it is very important that you keep it up to date. Make sure you allow the software to automatically update itself to ensure you stay protected.
-Do not open unknown email attachments unless you are sure they are safe. Unfortunately some viruses can spread emails that look like they came from a source you know. If you are not expecting an email, even if is from someone you know it is best to confirm before opening.
-Just like unknown email attachments, do not run programs from unknown origins. Also, do not send these types of programs to friends and coworkers because they contain funny or amusing stories or jokes. They may contain a Trojans horse waiting to infect a computer.
-Consider turning off your computer and disconnecting it from the internet when not using the computer. A hacker can not attack your computer when you are disconnected from the network or the computer is off.
The ability to shop from home, email friends and family are great benefits of the internet. Unfortunately, along with everything new comes the opportunity for criminals to use it for bad purposes. By taking just a few simple precautions you can rest assured that you will get the benefits without becoming a victim.
Safety in the Home
Labels: eddy eagle, firearms instructions, instructor gun safety, montana ccw, NRAWe make it through because we learn how to use these tools safely, which should always be the primary focus where firearms are concerned. Safety becomes doubly important when firearms and children are in the house. Unsupervised kids and guns do not mix, so it’s important to start educating your children about firearms safety at an early age.
Remove the Mystery
Take the time to instruct your kids about guns, remove the mystery and neutralize the “forbidden fruit” syndrome. Take your children to the range and let them shoot your guns under your supervision. Help them learn how they work and the proper way to handle them safely. Above all, make them respect what firearms can do.
Develop a Fall-Back Plan
Should an intruder break into your home, do they know what to do? More important, do they know where to go to avoid injury should you have to defend them? One of the big dangers in using any firearm for home defense is that you run the risk of hitting the wrong person. It’s easy for a bullet to penetrate through some drywall and hit somebody on the other side or even exit your house and hurt a neighbor.
The use of deadly force should always be a last resort, and firearms owners should be well versed in their state and local laws. Once again, your brain is your greatest safety tool. You probably have worked out a fire plan with your family, so doesn’t it make sense to work out a home-invasion plan? You should know where the other family members are located. You should also know where it’s safe to shoot and where it’s not safe.
Consider loading your handgun with specialty ammunition designed to reduce penetration and the chances of a ricochet. Perhaps the best known and most proven ammo of this type is the Glaser Safety Slug. The Glaser uses a bullet with a thin jacket filled with small birdshot covered with a soft plastic tip. It’s been proven to work well in stopping intruders but won’t penetrate walls as easily as conventional loads do. Educating your children and establishing a fall-back plan for your family is all part of being a responsible gun owner. It’s how we ensure their safety, whether it’s with our lawn mowers, power saws, gas cans or firearms.
One of the best investments a gun owner can make is a gun safe. Not only does it provide reasonably good protection from theft, but it keeps guns out of the reach of curious young hands and provides a ventilated environment for uncased firearms
Safety Awareness In A Storm
Labels: Safety Awareness In A StormYou can protect yourself and your family in the event of the hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and lightning storms that kill and injure thousands every year if you're knowledgeable about electrical safety during and after weather disasters.
"After severe weather is gone, electrical hazards can still cause deaths and injuries," noted Brett Brenner, The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) president. ESFI warns consumers to beware of electrical dangers associated with downed power lines, portable electric generators and electrical wiring or appliances that have been wet. These precautions can help:
• Use care when stepping into flooded areas--whether indoors or out. Submerged outlets, electrical cords, and downed power lines can energize water, posing a lethal trap.
• Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them.
• If you see someone who is in contact with a downed power line, do not touch the person. You could become the next victim. Call 911.
• Do not drive over downed power lines.
• Have electricians install portable electric generators to ensure they meet local electrical codes and are properly grounded. Improperly installed generators can "backfeed" along power lines and electrocute crews working to restore power.
• Keep the generator dry. Do not operate it in enclosed or partially enclosed areas. Generators produce deadly carbon monoxide.
• Do not overload a generator; follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions.
• Do not use electrical wiring or equipment that has been wet. Contact a qualified service repair dealer to recondition electrical equipment; a licensed electrician can inspect electrical systems.
• To avoid lightning strikes, stay indoors and away from windows during storms.
• During electrical storms, do not use corded telephones except for emergencies.
• Avoid contact with water and plumbing during electrical storms.
• If outdoors during electrical storms, move to a low point. Stay away from metal items.
• Don't forget pets during thunderstorms. Doghouses are not safe from lightning. Chained animals can easily become victims of lightning strikes.
Safeguarding Your Personal Information From Identity Thieves
Labels: credit card, frauds, ID, identity theft, identity theft frauds, mail, personal information, protecting, protection, scams, schemes, Social SecurityAn identity thief doesn't just steal your credit card and personal information to start buying crazily in your name. He gets new cards, opens new loans, and leaves a long trail of unpaid bills in your name. He even uses your identity to commit acts of terrorism or other crimes. What are you to do?
Identity theft occurs more frequently than you would like to believe - and is committed frequently by someone you know. This is what happened to Linda Foley, a magazine writer, who learned that her own employer had swiped her identity to open cell phone and credit card accounts. Now Foley, along with her husband, fight back as the Co-Executive Directors of the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) in San Diego, California.
Can This Happen to You?
After Bridget J. Thomas learned that her identity was stolen by a bank employee at a branch 300 miles from the one she used, she was shocked. And that was just the beginning of her nightmare! When the thief was caught, she was working at a different bank in a different state. After her arrest, collection agencies continued to hound Ms Thomas.
Setting the Record Straight Might Not Be All That Easy - or Quick!
Setting the record straight is the tip of a nightmarish iceberg that can take months - even years to accomplish – often with undue pain and suffering for the victim. In serious cases victims spend an average of 600 hours and $1,400 in out-of-pocket expenses to repair their credit. Until they can prove their innocence, they are more likely to be:
• charged higher rates for insurance and fees for credit cards,
• rejected for student loans or home mortgages,
• arrested for crimes they did not commit,
• unable to get or keep a job.
A Call From A Collection Agency Or A turndown For A Loan Is Often the Only Tip-off That Your Identity Was Stolen.
A thief needs only one thing to open the doors to his windfall - your Social Security number. Unfortunately it is routinely used by government agencies, health care providers, utility companies, merchants, employers, and financial institutions. Often, your Social Security number is publicly available. That's how General John M. Shalikashvili, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, became a victim. His Social Security number and those of many other military officers were published in the "Congressional Record" and were later posted on the internet. Thieves used their identities to open 273 new credit cards accounts and run up a bill of over $200,000.00 in charges.
Develop a Form of Defense
To stop identity thieves in their steps, there are several things you can do. You can begin by freezing access to your credit file. By doing so, you cause your file to become off-limits to anyone who does not know the secret PIN (Personal Information Number) of your choosing. This sets the wheels in motion to protect you from the bad guys - anyone who attempts to apply for credit in your name. It causes their application to be rejected; although your credit cards won't be affected. And if you want to apply for new credit or let a bank, store, or agency run a background check on you, you can get a credit thaw. For example, if you decided to shop for a big-ticket item, like a car, you might thaw your history for auto dealers.
Other Things You Can Do - Starting NOW!
• Periodically check your credit report for suspicious activities. Americans are now entitled to a free annual credit report from each of the three bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
• If you elect to shop online, use a credit card rather than a debit card. With a credit card, you have the extra protection of maximum liability of $50.00 for unauthorized purchased.
• Learn more about "phishing" email scams, and other schemes, frauds, and cons to separate you from your identity and your money.
In the Event You Do Become A Victim
Here are some steps to take:
• Act fast and prepare yourself for an uphill battle uncooperative and unsupportive credit card and law enforcement agencies. For guidance and support, I suggest that you turn to organizations and agencies like ITRC, the Federal Trade Commission, and others.
• Call the fraud dept. of one of the three credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, and request that a fraud alert be placed on your credit reports. (The other two credit bureaus will automatically be notified.) The alert lasts for 90 days and requires creditors to call you before opening new accounts in your name; however, a word of caution is in order here. There are no legal requirements to honor alerts and merchants who are eager to make a sale may ignore them.
• Close your credit card accounts and change the passwords on all your financial and banking accounts.
• File a police report. Although credit bureaus won’t extend a fraud alert without it, be aware that local police departments may be reluctant to provide a report. Many may lack the resources to properly investigate the crime.
• Mail copies of the police report to all three credit bureaus with a cover letter demanding your complete credit file.
• Call every credit where you know a bogus account has been created and have them close your file immediately. Demand copies of all fraudulent applications for credit and billing statements. Creditors don’t want to divulge that information, but they will if you enclose a copy of a police report and forward your request it in writing via certified mail.
Conclusion: Face it, identity theft is a growing problem affecting everyone in some way or another. With the increase popularity of internet usage, it has become easier for cybercriminals to steal our identity. In 2002 alone, the victim total due to identity theft climbed to 10 million, a new high. The cost to the economy was up an astonishing 41 percent to $52.6 billion, according to The Identity Theft Survey Report, available from the Federal Trade Commission at the website (www.consumer.gov/idtheft/). Each year these totals are climbing with no apparent sign of slowing down.
What are your chances of becoming a victim of some form of identity theft? According to the Federal Trade Commission is one in ten.
“So what am I to do?” you ask. My recommendation is that first you educate yourself with information and resources at your disposal. Next, purchase identity theft insurance.
Safe Drinking Water in an Emergency or Disaster
Labels: disaster survival information, emergency supplies, Home securityNothing makes clearer the importance of water than a large disaster; clean, fresh water becomes more valuable than gold. It’s easy to forget that without water, we just can’t survive. 60 percent of our bodies are water, in fact for infants, water makes up about 80 percent of their body, so it is even more vital they have access to clean drinking water.
Unfortunately, following large-scale disasters, it’s not unusual that water supplies may be cut off temporarily or be rendered unfit for consumption. Everyone should know the following tips about safe drinking water in emergency situations.
Preparedness is Everything: The advice comes over and over, but most people still are not ready when disaster hits. You must maintain a supply of clean drinking water someplace safe in your home. You can survive a week without food, if necessary, but even one or two days without water can be fatal.
In terms of how much water is needed to be stored, you need to drink at least two quarts a day of water. Enough water for all the members of your family for at least a few days is a good idea. You can store water yourself in your own containers; anything glass, and clean, thoroughly washed plastic containers with caps work well. Seal water tightly in their containers and store them in someplace cool and dark in your home. Make sure to change new water regularly; once every six months.
Finding Safe Drinking Water: If you do run out of water during an emergency, or are trapped somewhere without ready access to clean drinking water, you’ll need to know what's safe to drink, and what isn't.
After a disaster, possible sources of safe drinking water in your home include the water from your hot water tank, the water from your toilet tank (not the bowl, but the water from your tank, but if it is chemical-free), and water trapped in your water pipes. Melt any ice cubes that you may have stored.
Avoid using water from waterbeds as drinking water, since they are treated with chemicals unsafe for drinking. You can use waterbed water for washing, though. Outside your home try to locate streams, rivers, lakes, or other sources of fresh water. Never drink floodwater; it is usually contaminated with bacteria and chemicals. Do save rainwater that may fall for drinking.
Purifying Water in an Emergency: If you cannot locating safe drinking water during an emergency, then any water you find that does not look clear, or which you believe may be contaminated, should be purified before drinking.
The best and easiest way to purify water is by boiling. Disease-bearing microorganisms cannot survive in high temperatures. Boil the water for about one minute. For improved taste, pour the water back and forth from one clean container to another.
If you’re unable to boil your water, treat it chemically before drinking. Household chlorine bleach can be used to treat your water. Use an eyedropper, to drop eight drops of bleach into each gallon of water to be treated. Make sure the chlorine you use lists hypochlorite as its only active ingredient; any extra chemicals or fragrances will only further contaminate the water. Stir the water and allow it to stand at least 30 minutes. When the water appears clear, it is likely safe to drink. If it is still murky or clouded, put in eight more drops and let stand another 30 minutes.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
A layman’s guide to home security
The world today has a plethora of advanced technological means of protecting their valuables be it jewelry, an expensive electronic gadget, piece of art, or antique that you have paid a fortune to make yours!
However, with all good things, there is something bad and security systems are no exceptions! This means technology too can fail!
Looking at the brighter side, like I said all your hard-earned valuables could be protected today without your having to worry 24/7 whether your favourite diamond ring or antique Chinese vase is no more yours when you get back home after a hard day at work!
However before you embark on a search for the best security system for your home, you need to do a reality check. Your best option is to ask your family and close friends- people you trust, about their security systems if they have one. Take a note of all the problems they may have had with their security systems since they installed them. This will help you to cross-question all the security firms that you visit and hence clear your doubts too!
Another important consideration is how much are you ready to shell out to secure your home, now I do not mean just buying the equipment required because the expenses do not end here. If you want a complete security system, you also have to consider paying the security firm that is going to monitor all the events while you are away!
Now to give you a lowdown on the options available to you,
One you can go in for a do it yourself kit, but again I suggest this option only if you are confident of setting up the system and of coarse also if you want to save on costs. However if you goof up, you are obviously going to be spending a lot more then you thought of saving in the first place!
Second, you can visit a security firm who will give you a customized system according to your requirements and budget, they also monitor all the events 24/7, and you will be charged for these daily services. For the best firm in the market and of coarse one in your area you can you can search on the internet or again ask friends and family.
To understand the technical jargon in layman terms you can read on.
In terms of location, you have:
Perimeter alarms
As the name suggests such alarms are usually used to stop the intruder at the boundaries of your property. They are fairly simple in design, why? The answer is simple; because while guarding a perimeter your aim is to stop the intruder outside and hence will want to sound an alarm if somebody crosses the boundary because if they are inside the your property your alarm was ineffective! Simple switch circuits are very effective for such purposes. Good examples of these are the open circuits and closed circuit alarms explained later on in the article.
Building alarms
Now if the intruder has managed to bypass or deactivate your perimeter alarm then you need to protect your house too meaning the inside of the building! Again, there are various ways to do so such as use body heat to detect the presence of somebody inside the building and sound an alarm on detection or vice versa i.e. radiate energy from a source and monitor its reflection, if interrupted the reflection changes and you can sound an alarm. If you want an extensive and detailed alarm system, you can put up a surveillance system with hidden cameras, which of course will cost you a fortune but it is worth it if you have a fortune to protect!
In terms of circuits, you have:
Open circuit
When the intruder completes the circuit by his action of intrusion, he triggers the alarm. For example, a button embedded into the doorway or magnetic switch embedded into a window will trigger an alarm if the door or window is opened.
Closed circuit
In such a system, the electric circuit is complete when the door or window is closed and hence if an intruder opens the door the current path is broken triggering an alarm. Now both these systems- open and closed circuit are very naïve in their designs and hence have to be controlled using a control box so that the intruder cannot deactivate the alarm easily!
In terms energy:
Active Systems
This means you have a source that emits either radio waves or ultra sonic rays into the room and records the reflection of these rays when they travel back; now if somebody comes in the range of these rays their reflection pattern changes and this can be used to trigger an alarm.
Passive Systems
These systems use a detector/sensor to sense a rapid change in infrared energy in the room. What this means is, that when a human enters the field of the senor there is a rapid increase in the level of heat, which is sensed by the infrared sensor; this in turn sends a message to a controller, which in turn sounds a combination of alarms set by the user.
Therefore, if you are looking for an entire home and property security you can go to a professional who will do the installation as well as monitor your home or office for you. Otherwise, you can opt for a do it yourself kit advisable for those who are technologically inclined or at least those who can follow instructions!
Finally buying a safe to protect your valuables from fire or theft is an essential part of sound home and business security. With a wide range of safes available there is something to suit everyone.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
5 Reasons To Install Security Cameras At Your Home Or Business
In today’s world, an individual or business owner needs to take the necessary steps to protect themselves, their family and their investments. While many opt for a full security system, which is always a good idea, the addition of security cameras can help to record any/all activities that take place in and around a specific area. Security cameras are not only designed for outside use, but are also commonly used indoors.
When it comes to reasons why you should consider installing security cameras, listed below are five of the best:
Security cameras provide constant monitoring of your home and/or business even when you are not there. Let’s face it. There is no way that you can be two places at once. You are either at home or at work, which is why security cameras can be your eyes even when you cannot be there in person.
If installed at your home, security cameras can help you to see who is outside your front door or on your property before opening the door or venturing outside. This is a very important safety precaution for anyone, whether you live out in the most rural of settings or in the city. It’s always a good idea to see who is at your door before you open it and if you suspect someone is on your property, security cameras can help to either confirm or eliminate that concern.
If a theft should occur, the use of security cameras can provide valuable evidence to help convict the perpetrator and possibly even recover your stolen item(s). This is true of both home and business burglaries. In addition, a home or business that is monitored with a security camera may carry more affordable insurance because it is less desirable for criminals who know they are being monitored. For the exact policy guidelines, check with your local insurance agent.
Security cameras can help parents to keep an eye on their babysitter. When you leave your child at home and entrust them with a babysitter, it never hurts to add extra peace of mind in knowing that your child is properly cared for during those moments when you are not at home with them yourself.
If used in a place of business, security cameras can help employers and store owners to keep a close eye on their employees. Monitoring of employee actions can help in a variety of situations, including possible employee theft, customer complaints and other matters where video playback may be beneficial.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Seniors Take Action To Ensure Personal Security
Many older Americans are taking steps to help secure their personal safety and security, especially as they balance the desire for independence with the challenges of declining health.
The good news is that crime rates affecting older Americans are actually lower than they may seem. The U.S. Department of Justice reports that the number of violent crimes has decreased during the last decade.
The even better news is that, by taking a few simple safety precautions, seniors can reduce their risk and increase their sense of security in their daily lives.
Check door locks. Replace any nonfunctioning or poorly installed locks. Make sure that your garage is equipped with a sturdy lock as well.
Install exterior lighting. A well-lit home can deter nighttime break-ins.
Make your house look occupied. When you're out of town, use light timers to mimic your normal routine. Cancel newspaper and mail delivery, so that papers don't pile up outside.
Know your neighbors. Keep neighbors' phone numbers near your phone with emergency information. Inform neighbors of your travel plans and any scheduled deliveries or home maintenance appointments.
Install an alarm. Security companies offer a wide range of alarm options, including systems that provide medical alert services.
Stay safe on the street. Always walk in well-lit areas. Ask a friend to accompany you or tell someone where you're going.
Neighborhood involvement is another key to deterring crime on a street or block. Seniors who want to protect their homes and help raise awareness in the community can join neighborhood watch groups.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Signs of Hidden Covert Cameras
Convenience stores seem to be one of the most vulnerable places for a robbery, especially all night convenience stores. The need for hidden covert cameras is not only great but a virtual must. Sure the cameras in the ceiling may be good for catching the action during a robbery, but often times, the view of the person’s face isn’t always the greatest. But if you have hidden covert cameras up front and personal, like the one that comes hidden inside a “We ID” counter sign, you are sure to get a great portrait picture of the would be thief that will help police and prosecutors send him packing off to jail in no time at all. They also work just fine for banks and packaging stores. If someone is cashing a stolen check at a bank or planning on holding it up, they will leave a nice up close and personal picture of themselves and never even know it.
Would you like another way to secretly get a shot of those would be thieves as they are leaving your place of business? What better place to hide hidden covert cameras than in the non-threatening, ever present, totally ignored exit sign. Anyone coming into or going out of your place of business has to pass by it. Exit signs are so common place that unless you are specifically looking for one, you don’t pay any attention to their presence, and even if you are looking for one, you certainly would not think that there are covert hidden cameras hidden inside of them. The exit sign hidden covert cameras come in your choice of black and white or full, living color.
