safety

Fireworks Safety Tips

Unfortunately in Long Beach, fireworks are illegal, but if you live in a city where fireworks are allowed or plan to partake in fireworks this 4th of July, here are some firework safety tips from the National Council on Firework Safety.

Photo Credit: Will, de Lyon via Compfight cc

Photo Credit: Will, de Lyon via Compfight cc

  • Only use fireworks outdoors free of overhead obstructions and away from dry grass or other flammable materials.
  • Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
  • Never give fireworks to young children.
  • Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
  • Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
  • Dispose of spent product by wetting it down and place it in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until morning.

Keeping these tips in mind to ensure a fun and safe 4th of July!

Grilling Safety Tips

Since it's summer and the 4th of July is just a couple weeks away, here are some grilling safety tips from the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA).

Photo Credit: Robert C. Abraham via Compfight cc

Photo Credit: Robert C. Abraham via Compfight cc

  • Read the owner's manual
  • Grills are for outside use ONLY
  • Use in well ventilated area
  • Keep grill stable
  • Follow electric codes
  • Use long handled utensils
  • Wear safe clothing
  • Keep fire under control
  • Be ready to extinguish flames
  • Consider placing a grill pad or splatter mat beneath your grill
  • Never leave grill unattended once lit
  • Stay away from hot grill
  • Don't move hot grill

A safe barbecue is a fun barbecue. Happy grilling! 

For detailed information on each tip, visit the HPBA website here.

May is National Electrical Safety Month!

The month of May is National Electrical Safety Month! Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure electrical safety in your home.

Photo: One of Kaplan Construction's projects, a kitchen remodel in Belmont Shore. For more photos of this remodel, click here.

Photo: One of Kaplan Construction's projects, a kitchen remodel in Belmont Shore. For more photos of this remodel, click here.

  • Replace or repair damaged or loose electrical cords.
  • Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets.
  • In homes with small children, make sure your home has tamper resistant receptacles.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for plugging an appliance into a receptacle outlet.
  • Avoid overloading outlets. Plug only high-wattage appliance in to each receptacle outlet at a time.
  • If outlet or switches feel warm, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuits, or flickering or dimming lights, call a qualified electrician.
  • Place lamps on level surfaces, away from things that can burn and use bulbs that match the lamp's recommended wattage.
  • Make sure your home has ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in the kitchen, bathroom(s), laundry, basement, and outdoor areas.
  • Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) should be installed in your home to protect electrical outlets,

For more information on electrical safety, you can check the NFPA's website here.

Tricks to Ensure Your Halloween is a Treat

Halloween is just around the corner! Here are some tricks from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for you and the kids to have a fun and safe Halloween!

Photo Credit: nocturnae via Compfight cc

Photo Credit: nocturnae via Compfight cc

All dressed up:

  • Plan costumes bright and reflective
  • Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costume
  • Make sure accessories, such as swords or sticks, are not sharp or too long.
  • Use flashlights with fresh batteries
  • Teach children how to call 9-1-1

On the trick-or-treat trail:

  • Always have a responsible adult accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds
  • Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or cat for a treat
  • Carry a cell phone for quick communication
  • Never cut across yards or use alleys
  • Notify law enforcement authorities of any suspicious activity

For more tricks to ensure your Halloween is a treat, go to the American Academy of Pediatrics website here.