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TextHealth and Safety Podcast Transcript: Nov. 18, 2008
Hello, and welcome to the Fairfax County Health and Safety Podcast for November 18, 2008. I’m Jim Person, Fairfax County emergency information officer. Coming up, learn about becoming an auxiliary police officer, and how to stay safe and healthy this winter. Links to topics mentioned in this podcast can be found online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov.
The police department needs YOU. If you are interested in helping to protect the lives of Fairfax County residents, consider becoming a volunteer with the Auxiliary Police Officers program. Volunteers help support the police department and play an important role in agency functions. Working at sobriety checkpoints, helping out at the training academy, conducting home security surveys and working at community events are just a few of the many opportunities to get involved. If you want to make your spare time matter and give back to your community, learn more about the Auxiliary Officers program by calling 703-280-0701 or e-mail auxiliarypolice@fairfaxcounty.gov
Whether we like it or not, winter weather is on the way. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management reminds us that winter always hold the possibility of icy roads, downed power lines and even snow drifts. Prepare now for cold-weather emergencies and disasters by taking three simple, low-cost steps – get an emergency supply kit, make a plan and stay informed.
This is also the time of year when we look for those extra, economical ways to provide warmth in our homes. Portable heaters are often seen as the answer. But portable heaters can lead to tragedy if they are not used properly. Here are a few safety tips:
- Use only appliances that turn off automatically if tipped over.
- Use only models that have been approved by a nationally recognized testing agency (UL or Factory Mutual).
- Keep combustible materials at least three feet away from space heaters.
- If using an electric model, make sure the cord is not frayed or worn.
- Never use an extension cord with a portable heater.
- Keep children and pets away from portable heaters. It only takes a second for curiosity to lead to a serious burn.
- Turn heaters off when you leave home or go to bed.
- If you are using a kerosene heater, use only IK kerosene as a fuel. Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquid in a kerosene heater.
Remember, good judgment, common sense and following the manufacturer's
recommendations will allow you to safely enjoy your portable
heater.
Driving is most dangerous during winter weather, especially when the temperature is 32° F or below. If the road is wet, ice is likely, especially on bridges, ramps and overpasses. You can find out about current road conditions by calling 5-1-1 or visiting the Virginia Department of Transportation Web site at www.VirginiaDOT.org. And remember, even when roads have been treated with salt and/or sand, reduce your speed and leave a safe driving distance between other vehicles on the road.
For more information about winter weather safety, visit the Fairfax County emergency information page at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency, readyvirginia.gov or the Virginia Department of Emergency Management at www.vaemergency.com.
And finally, the Fairfax County Health Department wants you to stay healthy this winter season. By minimizing your exposure to germs you protect yourself from catching influenza, gastro-intestinal illnesses, the common cold, and many other diseases. The simplest and most effective way to stop the spread of germs is to wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water, and cover all coughs and sneezes with either a tissue or your upper sleeve, not your hands! Always wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after using the restroom, before and after eating, after touching public doorknobs and handles, and after coughing or sneezing. The Health Department offers hand-washing signs in both English and Spanish to remind residents “Your Health is in Your Hands!” To order signs, call 703-246-8642, or visit the Health Department Web page www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd for more information.
That’s it for this edition of the Fairfax County Health and Safety Podcast, produced by the Fairfax County, Virginia government. Thanks for listening. Additional information about health and safety topics and emergency preparedness may be found online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov. And remember, if you have a police, fire or medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
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