Public Notice

HAZARDS

LADDER SAFETY
As the holiday season approaches, many of us will bring out ladders to hang festive lights and decorations on eaves, trees, or tall bushes — or to place the star atop the Christmas tree. Falls from ladders are a major cause of injuries and fatalities. However, most of these accidents can be avoided by following a few safety tips.

DECORATIVE SAFETY
Sprucing up your office or home for the holidays is a time-honored tradition. However, use caution and carefully inspect festive decorations — they could be potential fire hazards!

WINTER DRIVING SAFETY
As winter approaches, it is important to prepare your vehicle. In addition to equipping it with winter tires and new wiper blades, consider keeping survival items inside your vehicle in case you become stranded.

TIPS

FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS (Ladder Safety):

• Inspect the ladder before use.
• Maintain three points of contact while using the ladder.
• Set up the ladder correctly:
  » The proper angle for a leaning ladder is approximately 1:4 (or 75 degrees), with the rungs or treads level and the ladder fully opened.
• Use stepladders safely:
  » Ensure they are fully unfolded, with the braces locked.
• Ensure stability:
  » Place the ladder on a firm, level surface.
• Do not place a ladder on objects to gain extra height.
• Avoid setting up a ladder in front of an unlocked door.
• Ensure stepladder spreaders are fully extended and locked.

FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS (Decorative Safety):

• Place decorations in safe areas, avoiding fire hazards and exits.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources, including office equipment.
• Install holiday lights properly:
  » Do not link more than three strands.
  » Turn off lights when unattended.
• Use non-flammable decorations and battery-operated candles.
• Remove paper and other flammable materials from outlets and ignition sources.
• For live trees:
  » Choose a fresh tree, refill the water regularly, and discard it when it becomes dry.
  » Position the tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces or vents.
• Avoid plugging one GFI into another GFI.

HERE IS A LIST OF SUGGESTED ITEMS TO KEEP IN YOUR CAR:

• Cell phone charger.
• Basic first aid kit (matched to your training level).
• Booster cables.
• Bottled water.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• High-visibility apparel.
• Non-perishable food.
• Blankets.
• Extra clothing.
• A candle and lighter.
• A full tank of gas.