Safety Week 2017

This week is Safety Week 2017, "It’s In Our Hands." Chances are that most of you will injure your hands at work or at home and many of you will just think it is par for the course. But we must change that mindset!! It is funny that something as precious as our hands, gets so little care and protection. Did you wear gloves the last time you were torquing a wrench working on your car? Did you wear gloves when cutting the grass and clearing branches off your yard? Did you wear gloves when repairing the wood fence in your backyard? Our home is the safe place that often takes our eye off the dangers that are inherently there! Think about this before you start a task at home:

• Do I have the right tools for the job? If you don’t, then don’t do it till you do.
• Do I have enough time for the job right now?  I am I rushed? Taking short cuts due to time is a major cause of injury.
• How could I get hurt? Envision the worst and protect yourself.
• Is this really a two person job? You know the answer to this, don’t try it alone!
• Have I inspected my work area for hazards and my tools?
• Are the tools equipped with the proper safe guards?
• Are my tools in good condition?
• Do I have the correct PPE (personal protective equipment)? Yes, wear gloves, safety glasses, protective toe boots and yes, even a hard hat as task dictates.

And lastly, check your fire extinguishers, your first aid kit and consider an AED for your home.

Stay safe!

McK