9/05
Medication Safety
Taking medicines is not always as simple as swallowing a pill. It can involve many steps and decisions each day. Whether you are using a medicine yourself or helping a child or an adult, it is easy to get off track. Perhaps you:
· Did not take all of your medicine because you started feeling better.
· Did not have a prescription filled or refilled (and did not tell your doctor).
· Took more or less medicine than your doctor told you to take.
· Forgot to take one or more doses a day.
Some products (often called compliance aids) can help remind you to take your doses on time and keep track of the doses you take. These aids include check-off calendars, containers with sections for daily doses, and caps that beep when it is time to take a dose. Ask your pharmacist or doctor what is available.
To help you avoid serious problems you should write down each medicine you take, the reason you take it, and how you take it. A worksheet is attached for this list. The list should be kept handy in case of a question. Be sure to include the name of medicine, the reason taken, the dosage, and what time(s) of day you need to take them.
Also include any over-the-counter medicines, such as:
Laxatives
Diet pills
Vitamins
Cold medicine
Cough medicine
Allergy relief medicine
Antacids
Sleeping pills
Aspirin or other pain, headache, or
fever medicine
Others (include names)
A yearly medicine check-up is a good way to spot hidden problems. Schedule a time with your pharmacist or doctor to look at all the prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take. They can check for duplicate medicines and proper doses. They can also advise you on medicines that are no longer needed, and tell you how to safely get rid of old medicines. This is a list of questions you can take with you when you go to see your doctor or pharmacist. Write down the answers you receive to your questions.
· What is the name of the medicine? Is this the brand or generic name?
· What is the medicine supposed to do?
· How and when do I take it? And for how long?
· What foods, drinks, other medicines, or activities should I avoid while taking this medicine?
· What are the possible side effects? What do I do if they occur?
· Is there any written information available about the medicine?
Be sure to talk to your doctor about any of the following:
· Any concerns you have about using a medicine.
· Any concerns you have about other parts of your treatment.
· If you are not taking your medicine as directed, for example, some people stop taking their medicine as soon as they feel better. Your doctor needs to know about any changes in your treatment plan. Do not let guilty feelings or embarrassment keep you from telling your doctor this important information.
· All the medicines you are already taking. This includes prescription medicines and the medicines you buy over the counter, like aspirin or laxatives. Then your doctor can avoid giving you a new medicine that may not work well with one you take now.
· If you have any medicine allergies, or if you have had troubling side effects from a medicine.
· Any illnesses or problems for which another doctor or health professional is treating you.
· Any new medicines that another doctor gave you, and any over-the-counter medicines that you started taking since your last doctor's visit. Before you visit your doctor, make a list of all medicines that you take, using the "Medicine Record List" in this document as a guideline, and bring it with you. Try to keep this list up to date. Telling which medicines you take is very important-especially if you have more than one doctor.
· Any problems you are having taking your medicine.
· About side effects or any new problems that may be related to the medicine.
· How you are feeling since you started taking the medicine. Do you think it is helping?
· If you are or might become pregnant, or if you are nursing a baby.
· What is important to you about your medicines. You may want a medicine with the fewest side effects, or the fewest doses to take each day. You may care most about cost, or how the medicine might affect how you live or work. Or, you may want the medicine your doctor believes will work the best. Telling your doctor will help him or her select the best treatment for you.
· If cost is a concern. There may be a generic drug or another lower cost medicine you can take.
Brought to you by your Central Yavapai Fire District. Central Yavapai Fire District administrative office phone number is 772-7711; the Fire Marshal's office is 759-9933.
7/05
Warning Signs of a Heart Attack.
Have your blood pressure checked.
When a heart attack occurs, it is extremely important to recognize the symptoms and respond rapidly. Nearly 50% of patients suffering from a heart attack wait two or more hours before seeking medical help. A person experiencing symptoms of a heart attack should be rushed to the nearest emergency room. Those symptoms consist of a pressure-like squeezing or tightness feeling in the center of the chest that may radiate or move to the left shoulder and arm It may also move to both arms, the jaw or between the shoulder blades in the back. Shortness of breath, weakness, marked fatigue, cold sweats, paleness and a feeling of skipped heartbeats may accompany chest discomfort or pain. Each person should recognize that their symptoms of heart pain may be different from the classical pattern of symptoms and should be taken seriously.
High blood pressure means that your heart is working harder than normal to force blood into the arteries and through the circulatory system. High blood pressure has no symptoms, so it is very important to have it checked regularly and closely follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor. The Central Yavapai Fire District checks blood pressures, free of charge, on Fridays at 8555 E Yavapai Road in Prescott Valley from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. You may also have your blood pressure checked at any of our stations when the crew is in quarters.
As always, if you have questions, please feel free to call us at 759-9933.
This message brought to you by your Central Yavapai Fire District.
Burn Permits
Remember, that if you want to burn brush, weeds, tree trimmings, and the like, you are required to obtain a burn permit prior to conducting your burn. Burn permits are available at any Central Yavapai Fire District fire station. There is no cost for the permit however there are rules to be followed which are clearly explained on the permit. Some of these are: no burning on windy days, no burning after dark, you must have water available and stay with the fire at all times. Remember, there is no burning of trash or other items, only yard trimmings can be burned. If you have any questions please call the Community Risk Management Division at 759-9933.
Springtime Maintenance to Prevent Summertime Fires
We have had an unusually wet winter. Don't let that give you a false sense of security regarding fire season! The weeds and grasses are already thicker and taller this year. In the coming months this vegetation will dry out and present a greater than average fire danger. Please take the time to cut or mow any tall vegetation around your home and property now. Starting early will help to protect your home later and could prevent a wildland fire. This message is from your Central Yavapai Fire District.
Grilling Safety
According to the NFPA, gas and charcoal grills caused an average of 1,500 structure fires and 4,800 outdoor fires in or on home properties in 1999. To make sure your next barbecue doesn't go up in flames, the Home Safety Council recommends the following safety tips:
· Designate the grilling area a "No Play Zone" keeping kids and pets well away until grill equipment is completely cool.
· Before using, position your grill at least 3 feet away from other objects, including the house and any shrubs or bushes.
• Only use starter fluid made for barbecue grills when starting a fire in a charcoal grill.
• Never pour more starter fluid onto a lit fire to try to speed up the burning process.
• Before using a gas grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line to be sure it is working properly and not leaking.
• Never use a match to check for leaks. If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas and don't attempt to light the grill again until the leak is fixed.
• Never bring a barbecue grill indoors, or into any unventilated space. This is both a fire and carbon monoxide poisoning hazard.
The Central Yavapai Fire District wants to help you keep your family safe. Please call the Community Risk Management Division at 759-9933 if you have any questions.
Backyard Safety Checklist
___ Do you keep all garden tools out of children's reach and store them with tines, blades or spikes pointing downward?
___ Do you put ladders away promptly after use and store them in a shed or garage, where they cannot be reached by children or used by burglars?
___ Do you keep five gallon and other large buckets stored up high and turned upside down, to prevent a toddler from drowning?
___ Did you use soft protective surfacing, such as wood chips or mulch, under all outdoor playground equipment?
___ Have you cleared sidewalks and pathways of toys and clutter and repaired broken or chipped surfaces?
___ Do you wear protective goggles and ear protection while using outdoor machinery, including lawn mowers, blowers and power tools?
___ Do you keep children inside the home while mowing the lawn or using other dangerous tools?
___ Do you fill the mower with gasoline before starting the job and only refuel after it has completely cooled down?
___ Are you careful to only refuel gasoline-powered equipment outside, away from cigarettes and other sparks and flames?
___ Do you clean up spills promptly?
___ Do you store automotive fluids and pesticides outside, in their original containers, and out of the reach of children (preferably in a locked cabinet)?
___ Do you use gasoline as a motor fuel only?
___ Do you use gasoline outside and only store small amounts in an approved gasoline container?
___ Do you wear a respirator whenever pesticides, chlorine-based pool products or other dangerous chemicals are mixed, used or applied?
___ Do you read package labels carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective use and storage of pesticides, pool products and other chemicals?
The Central Yavapai Fire District wants to help you keep your family safe. Please call the Community Risk Management Division at 759-9933 if you have any questions.
ESCAPE FROM FIRE!
More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires, and approximately 25,000 are injured. Deaths resulting from failed emergency escapes are particularly avoidable.
Have a Sound Fire Escape Plan In the event of a fire, remember - time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames.
Practice Escaping From Every Room In The Home Practice escape plans every month. The best plans have two ways to get out of each room. If the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a second way out. A secondary route might be a window onto an adjacent roof or using an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows. Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened. Also, practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
Security Bars Require Special Precautions Security bars may help to keep your family safe from intruders, but they can also trap you in a deadly fire! Windows and doors with security bars must have quick release devices to allow them to be opened immediately in an emergency. Make sure everyone in the family understands and practices how to properly operate and open locked or barred doors and windows.
Immediately Leave The Home When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property. Take the safest exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under the smoke and keep your mouth covered. The smoke contains toxic gases which can disorient you or, at worst, overcome you.
Never Open Doors That Are Hot To The Touch When you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between the door and door frame to make sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is securely closed, then use your alternate escape route.
Designate A Meeting Place Outside and Take Attendance Designate a meeting location away from the home, but not necessarily across the street. For example, meet under a specific tree or at the end of the driveway or front sidewalk to make sure everyone has gotten out safely and no one will be hurt looking for someone who is already safe. Designate one person to go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.
Once Out, Stay Out Remember to escape first, then notify the fire department using the 911 system or proper local emergency number in your area. Never go back into a burning building for any reason. Teach children not to hide from firefighters. If someone is missing, tell the firefighters. They are equipped to perform rescues safely. Finally, having working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home dramatically increases your chances of survival. Smoke alarm batteries need to be tested every month and changed with new ones at least once a year whether or not they are worn out. Also, consider replacing the entire smoke alarm every ten years, or as the manufacturer guidelines recommend.
Central Yavapai Fire District cares about your safety. Please call if you would like more information, 759-9933.
Garage Safety
In America there are nearly 21 million medical visits as a result of unintentional home injuries. However, home safety is not limited to the immediate living area. The garage also poses a serious threat if not kept clean and organized. In order to keep your garage a safe place for the family, follow these safety tips from the Central Yavapai Fire District.
·Organize all items in designated, easy-to-reach places, so large piles don't accumulate.
·Store shovels, rakes, lawn chairs, bikes and other sharp and large objects on the wall to prevent trips and falls.
·Clear floors and steps of clutter, grease and spills.
·Keep children's playthings in one area and within their reach to prevent children from exploring potentially dangerous areas.
·Light your garage brightly with maximum safe wattage as designated by light fixtures.
·Protect light bulbs near work areas with substantial guards to reduce risk of breakage and fire.
·Light stairs brightly and install secure handrails or banisters on both sides that extend the entire length of the stairs.
·Make sure poisonous products such as pesticides, automotive fluids, lighter fluid, paint thinner, antifreeze and turpentine have child-resistant caps, are clearly labeled and are stored either on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet.
·Do not use barbeque grills and electric generators inside the garage as they emit carbon monoxide (CO) and pose a fire hazard.
·Install a smoke alarm and CO detector in the garage.
·Never leave cars running inside a closed or open garage to prevent CO poisoning.
·Store gasoline in small quantities only and in a proper, tightly sealed container labeled "gasoline."
·Do not keep gasoline in a garage with an appliance that contains a pilot light.
·Mount a fire extinguisher and stocked first aid kit in the garage and make sure every family member knows where they are and how to use them.
·Store pool chemicals according to the manufacturers' directions to prevent combustion and potential poisoning exposures.
·Do not overload outlets and make sure the electrical ratings on extension cords have been checked to ensure they are carrying no more than their proper loads.
·Lock electrical supply boxes to prevent children from opening them.
·Clean garage of dust, webs and trash, which can interfere with the electrical system.
·Properly secure shelving units to the wall, make sure they are not overloaded and store heavier items closest to the ground.
·Keep a sturdy step stool within easy reach to aid in reaching items stored high up.
Please feel free to call the Central Yavapai Fire District at 759-9933 if you have any questions.
(10/04)
Cold Weather Safety Tips
Wood Stoves and Fireplaces-
· Be sure the stove or fireplace is installed properly. Woodstoves should have adequate clearance (36") from combustible surfaces, and proper floor supports and protection.
· Woodstoves should be of good quality, solid construction and design and should be UL listed.
· Have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned if necessary, especially if it has not been used for some time.
· Do not use flammable liquids to start or accelerate any fire.
· Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening, to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out, unwanted material from going in, and help prevent the possibility of burns to occupants.
· The stove should be burned hot twice a day for 15-30 minutes to reduce the amount of creosote buildup.
· Don't use excessive amounts of paper to build roaring fires in fireplaces. It is possible to ignite creosote in the chimney by overbuilding the fire.
· Never burn charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal can give off lethal amounts of carbon monoxide.
· Keep flammable materials away from your mantel. A spark from the fireplace could easily ignite these materials.
· Before you go to sleep, be sure your fireplace fire is out. NEVER close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper will help the fire to heat up again and will force toxic carbon monoxide into the house.
· If synthetic logs are used, follow the directions on the package. Never break a synthetic log apart to quicken the fire or use more than one log at a time. They often burn unevenly, releasing high levels of carbon monoxide.
Furnace Heating-
· Have your furnace inspected annually to insure it is in good working condition.
· Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition.
· Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are trained to do so.
· Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.
· Check the flue pipes and pipe seams. Are they well supported? Free of holes and cracks? Soot along or around seams may be an indicator of a leak.
· Is the chimney solid? No cracks or loose bricks? All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry.
· Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system.
Portable Heater Safety
As the temperature drops, portable heaters are frequently used in different areas to "take the chill off." Unfortunately they are also found to be the source of ignition in many fires, both commercial and residential. If you must use portable heaters please remember these safety tips:
·Make sure your model has a safety switch that will turn the unit off if it tips over or overheats
· Prior to use check the cord for any damage.
· Never run a portable heater on an extension cord.
· Keep any heater at least 3 feet away from combustible material.
· Never leave the heater unattended, unplug it if you leave the area.
· Keep heaters out of high traffic areas.
· Make sure they are listed for indoor use.
· Propane heaters used with portable propane tanks are not for use inside the home. Any fuel burning heater can cause carbon monoxide buildup. ALWAYS insure proper ventilation, i.e leave a window open.
Other Fire Safety Tips-
· NEVER discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Woodstove ashes can retain possible ignition heat for UP TO A WEEK. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.
· Never use a range or oven as a supplemental heating devise. Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.
· If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Use only a power strip or a heavy duty extension cord that is rated for the amp load.
· Avoid using electric space heaters in bathrooms, or other areas where they may come in contact with water.
· Frozen water pipes? Never try to thaw them with a blow torch or other open flame, (the pipe could conduct the heat and ignite the wall structure inside the wall space). Use hot water or a UL labeled device such as a hand held dryer for thawing.
· If there is a fire hydrant near your home you can assist the fire department by keeping the hydrant clear of weeds (or snow) so in the event it is needed, it can be easily located.
· Be sure that every level of your home has a working smoke detector at the minimum. For good coverage you should have them in bedrooms, hallways and in heavily occupied areas like the living room. Be sure to check and clean the detectors on a monthly basis. Change the batteries every year whether or not they seem worn out and replace the smoke detector itself every 10 years.
Please contact the Community Risk Management Division of the Central Yavapai Fire District at 759-9933 if you have any questions.
12/04
Your Family Disaster Plan, Are You Ready?
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services-water, gas, electricity or telephones-were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away.
Families can-and do-cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps listed in this article to create your family's disaster plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.
Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere-at work, at school or in the car.
How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe?
4 STEPS TO SAFETY
1. Find Out What Could Happen to You:
Contact your local emergency management or civil defense office and American Red Cross chapter--be prepared to take notes:
· Ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen. Request information on how to prepare for each.
· Learn about your community's warning signals: what they sound like and what you should do when you hear them.
· Ask about animal care after disaster. Animals may not be allowed inside emergency shelters due to health regulations.
· Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.
· Next, find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children's school or daycare center and other places where your family spends time.
2. Create a Disaster Plan:
Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather and earthquakes to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.
· Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case.
· Pick two places to meet:
-Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
-Outside your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Everyone must know the address and phone number.
· Ask an out-of-state friend to be your "family contact." After a disaster, its often easier to call long distance. Other family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact's phone number.
· Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets.
3. Complete This Checklist:
-Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
-Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number for emergency help.
-Show each family member how and when to turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches.
-Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
-Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher (ABC type), and show them where it's kept.
-Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
-Conduct a home hazard hunt.
-Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
-Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
-Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
-Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
4. Practice and Maintain Your Plan:
· Quiz your kids every six months so they remember what to do.
· Conduct fire and emergency evacuation drills.
· Replace stored water every three months and stored food every six months.
· Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions.
· Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
EMERGENCY SUPPLIES
Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit with items you may need in an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered trash containers.
Include:
·A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil.
·One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person.
·A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications.
·Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
·An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler's checks.
·Sanitation supplies.
·Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
·An extra pair of glasses.
·Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller kit in the trunk of your car.
UTILITIES
Locate the main electric fuse box, water service main and natural gas main. Learn how and when to turn these utilities off. Teach all responsible family members. Keep necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves.
Remember, turn off the utilities only if you suspect the lines are damaged or if you are instructed to do so. If you turn the gas off, you will need a professional to turn it back on.
NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
Working with neighbors can save lives and property. Meet with your neighbors to plan how the neighborhood could work together after a disaster until help arrives. If you're a member of a neighborhood organization, such as a home association or crime watch group, introduce disaster preparedness as a new activity. Know your neighbors' special skills (e.g., medical, technical) and consider how you could help neighbors who have special needs, such as disabled and elderly persons. Make plans for child care in case parents can't get home.
HOME HAZARD HUNT
During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. Anything that can move, fall, break or cause a fire is a home hazard. For example, a hot water heater or a bookshelf can fall. Inspect your home at least once a year and fix potential hazards.
EVACUATION
Evacuate immediately if told to do so:
·Listen to your battery-powered radio and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
·Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.
·Take your family disaster supplies kit.
·Lock your home.
·Use travel routes specified by local authorities--don't use shortcuts because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous.
If you're sure you have time:
·Shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving, if instructed to do so.
·Post a note telling others when you left and where you are going.
·Make arrangements for your pets.
IF DISASTER STRIKES
·Remain calm and patient. Put your plan into action.
·Check for injuries
·Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
·Listen to your battery powered radio for news and instructions
·Evacuate, if advised to do so. Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.
·Check for damage in your home...
-Use flashlights--do not light matches or turn on electrical switches, if you suspect damage.
-Check for fires, fire hazards and other household hazards.
-Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly.
-Shut off any other damaged utilities.
-Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids immediately.
·Remember to...
-Confine or secure your pets.
-Call your family contact--do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
-Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons.
-Make sure you have an adequate water supply in case service is cut off.
-Stay away from downed power lines.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Family Protection Program and the American Red Cross' Disaster Education Program are nationwide efforts to help citizens prepare for disasters of all types. For more information, please contact your local emergency management or civil defense office, and your local American Red Cross chapter. Start planning now.
Request free family protection publications by writing to: FEMA, P.O. Box 70274, Washington, D.C. 20024.
From "Family Disaster Plan." developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross.
Please contact the Community Risk Management Division of the Central Yavapai Fire District at 759-9933 if you have any questions.
(10/04)
Fall Prevention for Senior Citizens
Falls are one of the leading problems facing the older person. Injury from falls can lead to permanent disability, limiting a person's active, independent life. Simple changes to your environment and lifestyle can provide peace of mind and help to prevent falls.
Home-
-Arrange furniture so that there are open pathways with out obstacles.
-Clear pathways of clutter, including electrical cords, telephone cords, waste baskets, magazines, toys etc.
-Provide adequate lighting. A nightlight is an inexpensive solution for ease of travel during the night and especially important in the bathroom.
-Make sure that carpets and rugs are firmly attached, they shouldn't roll up when you push them with your foot and carpets should be free of wrinkles.
-Make sure that bathroom rugs have non skid backing.
-Install and use safety rails for toilet and tub.
-Install and use sturdy handrails on both sides of stairways.
-Paint or use bright tape on stairs or steps to show contrast.
-Keep outdoor steps and walkways in good repair.
-Clean up grease, water and other liquids immediately.
-Don't wax floors.
-Avoid climbing or reaching to high cabinets or shelves, use a sturdy step stool with handrails.
Lifestyle Changes:
-Have your vision and hearing checked regularly and corrected if necessary.
-Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of your medications.
-Limit your intake of alcohol.
-Use caution when getting up from eating or sleeping.
-Use a cane of walker to help maintain your balance.
-Take care of your feet and wear supportive, rubber soled shoes.
-Maintain a regular exercise program to improve strength and balance.
Information provided by Central Yavapai County Fire District, for more information call 759-9933
(9/04)
The Central Yavapai Fire District covers approximately 155 square miles surrounding the City of Prescott, from Williamson Valley to Humboldt. Our administrative office phone number is 772-7711; the Fire Marshal's office is 759-9933.
Please remember: always call 9-1-1 in an emergency!
Our crews have reported problems when responding to calls in the rural areas, particularly where a home may be accessed by a private easement. The most common difficulties are:
• A lack of adequate road signs that properly identify local roads.
• A lack of addresses on buildings or driveways that properly identify specific properties.
• A lack of properly constructed and/or maintained roads that may not be traversable by fire apparatus.
In an effort to remedy this, the Fire District strongly recommends that, at a minimum, your private easement should:
• Be constructed or improved to a minimum of twenty (20) feet in drivable width and should have a minimum of thirteen foot six inch (13"6") overhead clearance.
• Be constructed or provided with an all-weather surface capable of supporting the imposed weight of fire apparatus weighing seventy-five thousand (75,000) pounds.
• Be provided with approved "No Parking - Fire Lane" signs every one hundred and fifty (150) linear feet beginning at the entrance to the easement.
• Be constructed to not exceed twelve percent (12%) in grade unless the easement is paved.
• Be properly identified with street signs conforming to Yavapai County Standards.
• Be constructed or provided with an approved fire apparatus turnaround for any dead-end easement in excess of one hundred and fifty (150) feet in length.
• Be constructed or provided with proper drainage to prevent deterioration of the easement roadway.
• Be maintained in a passable condition at all times.
We urge you to help protect your family and property. Remember that on properties that are served by a private easement, it is the property owner's responsibility to provide adequate access and properly identify the property and easement roadway. Simply naming a private easement is no assurance that you will receive prompt emergency services at a time when seconds may count.
The Central Yavapai Fire District cares about your safety and the safety of your family. If you have questions, please call the Fire Marshal's office at 759-9933.
Water Safety Tips
In 2000, there were 3,281 unintentional drownings in the United States, averaging nine people per day. This does not include drownings in boating-related incidents (CDC 2003).
For every child who drowns, three receive emergency department care for non-fatal submersion injuries. More than 40% of these children require hospitalization (CDC 2003). Nonfatal incidents can cause brain damage that result in long-term disabilities ranging from memory problems and learning disabilities to the permanent loss of basic functioning (i.e. permanent vegetative state).
In the time it takes to …
…cross the room for a towel (10 seconds), a child in the bathtub can become submerged.
…answer the phone (2 minutes), that child can lose consciousness.
…sign for a package at your front door (4 to 6 minutes), a child submerged in the bathtub or pool can sustain permanent brain damage.
Safety Tips:
• Never leave a child alone near water-at the pool, the beach or in the tub-a tragedy can occur in seconds. If you must leave, take your child with you.
• Always use approved personal floatation devices (life jackets.) The U.S. Coast Guard estimates nearly 9 of 10 drowning victims were not wearing one. Water wings, floats, buoyant swim suits, floating seats and the like are NOT adequate safety devices.
• Be aware of neighborhood pools-be it your own or your neighbors. Kiddie pools are just as dangerous as large pools. Remove toys from in and around the pool when not in use. Toys can attract children to the pool.
• Empty containers such as mop buckets or kiddie pools as soon as you are finished using them. Watch children when there is standing water in tree wells, dog dishes and bird baths. It only takes about an inch of water for a child to drown.
• For pools, barriers can offer added protection against drowning. Power or manual covers will completely cover a pool and block access to the water, however, be sure to drain any standing water from the surface of the pool cover as a child can drown in very small amounts of water.
• Enroll children over age three in swimming lessons taught by qualified instructors. But keep in mind that lessons don't make your child "drown-proof."
• Introduce your kids to the water early. Use bath time to familiarize them with floating and being underwater.
• Older children risk drowning when they overestimate their swimming ability or underestimate the water depth.
• Don't dive into unknown bodies of water. Always enter the water feet first to avoid hitting your head on unseen objects under the water.
• Never swim alone, and don't let other adults, teens or children swim alone.
• Don't push or jump on others.
• Be prepared for an emergency.
• Always have a first-aid kit and emergency phone contacts handy. Parents should be trained in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). If you can't swim or don't know CPR, enroll yourself in classes. A significant number of drownings have been prevented because parents had these skills.
The Central Yavapai Fire District cares about your safety and the safety of your family. If you have questions please call Community Risk Management at 759-9933.
Smoke Alarms Missing in Two-thirds of Deadly Residential Fires
According to a new study released by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's U.S. Fire Administration more than 3,000 people die each year in fires at home. Your home is the place you should feel safest. Unfortunately, in a full two thirds of these fatal fires the smoke alarms were either not working or not installed at all.
Smoke alarms need to be tested frequently and batteries need replacing every six months. Change your batteries whether or not they still work. Did you know that most smoke alarms have a 10 year life span? If your alarms are older than 10 years you should replace them. If you have trouble with alarms "chirping" they may need dusting. A simple vacuuming with your dusting attachment will usually do the trick. Install a working smoke alarm on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms.
Do you know how to escape your house in the event of a fire? CRAWL LOW! We recently had a fire in Prescott Valley where the grandpa and 4 year old grandson safely escaped their burning home by remembering to crawl out of the house which was filled with deadly smoke. Make sure you have AND practice an escape plan.
“An unacceptable number of Americans are losing their lives and being injured by fires each year,” said U.S. Fire Administrator R. David Paulison. “We know that smoke alarms, escape plans, child fire prevention programs, and residential sprinklers save lives. We continue to encourage everyone to take the steps necessary to ensure their homes are fire safe today.”
The Central Yavapai Fire District joins with the U.S. Fire Administration in encouraging you to practice fire safety everyday. If you need more information, help in making an escape plan or any kind of fire and life safety advice please call the Community Risk Management Division at 759-9933.
6/05
Snakes
Each year about 7,000 poisonous snakebites occur in the United States. Of those treated, about 15 people die. More than half of those bitten are children and most bites occur between April and October. You are most likely to meet up with a rattlesnake on a summer evening after the sun has gone down, or during the warm days of the spring, winter and fall. There are 11 species of rattlesnakes (pit viper) identified in Arizona. A pit viper snake has a heat sensing "pit" located between the nostril and eye on each side that is used to locate and trail prey. Rattlesnakes can grow up to six feet in length and can strike from a distance of about half their length. Baby rattlesnakes are capable of a venomous bite from birth. Nonpoisonous snakebites are not considered serious and are generally treated as minor wounds; only poisonous snakebites are considered medical emergencies.
Characteristics of pit viper snakes:
· Large fangs; nonpoisonous snakes have small teeth.
· The two fangs of a poisonous snake are hollow and work like a hypodermic needle.
· Pupils resemble vertical slits.
· Presence of a pit. Pit vipers have a telltale pit between the eye and the mouth. The pit, a heat-sensing organ, makes it possible for the snake to accurately strike a warm-blooded victim, even if the snake cannot see the victim.
· A triangular or arrowhead shaped head.
· The rattlesnake often shakes its rattles as a warning. BUT NOT ALWAYS!
If you are not sure, do not move in for a closer look!
Avoiding a bite:
·Never aggravate a dangerous animal in any way or try and provoke it into an attack. This may seem ridiculous, but most bites are a result of such behavior.
·Do not try to capture a snake unless you are an experienced herpetologist. Even then three people are really required to deal with it. One person to get bitten by accident, one to stay with the victim, and one to go for help!
·When out walking in snake zones, look down and at the areas immediately on either side of where you will be treading.
If you wish to travel at night use a flashlight.
· Wear substantial socks and boots.
· Do not lift up large stones or fallen vegetative matter unless absolutely necessary and if you must, proceed with extreme caution. These are favored places for snakes.
· If you are climbing, do not put your hands anywhere you haven't looked first.
· If a snake is within striking distance and you are lucky enough to notice it - don't panic! Stay absolutely still. These animals are very quick and may strike in defense if you make a sudden movement. Move back very slowly.
Treatment for snakebite:
The severity of a rattlesnake bite is gauged by how rapidly symptoms develop, which depends on how much poison was injected. Signs and symptoms of a pit viper bite include:
1. Immediate and severe burning pain and swelling around the fang marks, usually within five minutes. The entire extremity generally swells within eight to 36 hours.
2. Purplish discoloration around the bite, usually developing within two to three hours.
3. Numbness and possible blistering around the bite, generally within several hours.
4. Nausea and vomiting
5. Rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, weakness, and fainting
6. Numbness and tingling of the tongue and mouth
7. Excessive sweating
8. Fever and chills
9. Muscular twitching
10. Convulsions
11. Dimmed vision
12. Headache
The priorities of emergency care for a snakebite are to maintain basic life support - airway, breathing and circulation - and limit the spread of the venom and to transport the patient without delay.
1. Move the patient away from the snake to prevent repeated bites or bites to yourself. Snakes cannot sustain prolonged rapid movement so are often within a 20 foot radius of where the bite first occurred.
2. Have the patient lie down and keep him quiet. Reassure him to slow the metabolism and subsequent spread of the venom.
3. Cut and suck methods are useless. According to one study, the most you can get is six percent of the venom. Many people do far more damage when they cut than they do good.
4. Keep the bitten extremity at the level of the heart.
5. Remove any rings, bracelets or other jewelry that could impede circulation if swelling occurs
6. Clean the wound gently with alcohol, soap and water, hydrogen peroxide or other mild antiseptic.
7. Do not cool or chill or apply ice.
8. Do not attempt to tie any type of tourniquet or constricting bands.
9. Transport the patient as soon as possible to the hospital.
One snake that is not a pit viper snake but is poisonous is the coral snake. The coral snake is highly poisonous and resembles a number of nonpoisonous snakes. It does not have fangs and has round pupils. Because its mouth is so small and its teeth are short, most coral snakes inflict bites on the toes and fingers. They have to chew the skin a while to inject venom. Coral snakes are small and ringed with red, yellow, and black. The chances for recovery of a snakebite are great if the patient receives care within two hours of the bite.
Signs and symptoms of a coral snake bite are different than those of a pit viper. Rather than leaving two distinct fang marks, the coral snake leaves one or more tiny scratch marks in the area of the bite. There is little pain or swelling and the patient's tissue usually does not turn black and blue. Usually, there is no pain or swelling at the bite site. However, one to eight hours after the bite, the patient will experience blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, increased salivation and sweating. Emergency care for a coral snake bite is similar to that for a pit viper snake bite.
Be sure to call 9-1-1 for emergency care if bitten by a poisonous snake! The Central Yavapai Fire District wants you to be safe and have a great summer!
The Central Yavapai Fire District joins with the U.S. Fire Administration in encouraging you to practice fire safety everyday. If you need more information, help in making a fire escape plan or any kind of fire and life safety advice, please call the Community Risk Management Division at 759-9933.
8/05
The Central Yavapai Fire District covers approximately 160 square miles surrounding the City of Prescott, from Williamson Valley to Humboldt. Our administrative office phone number is 772-7711; the Fire Marshal's office is 759-9933.
Please remember: always call 9-1-1 in an emergency!
Our crews have reported problems when responding to calls in the rural areas, particularly where a home may be accessed by a private easement.
The most common difficulties are:
• A lack of adequate road signs that properly identify local roads.
• A lack of addresses on buildings or driveways that properly identify specific properties.
• A lack of properly constructed and/or maintained roads that may not be traversable by fire apparatus.
In an effort to remedy this, the Fire District strongly recommends that, at a minimum, your private easement should:
• Be constructed or improved to a minimum of twenty (20) feet in drivable width and should have a minimum of thirteen foot six inch (13"6") overhead clearance.
• Be constructed or provided with an all-weather surface capable of supporting the imposed weight of fire apparatus weighing seventy-five thousand (75,000) pounds.
• Be provided with approved "No Parking - Fire Lane" signs every one hundred and fifty (150) linear feet beginning at the entrance to the easement.
• Be constructed to not exceed twelve percent (12%) in grade unless the easement is paved.
• Be properly identified with street signs conforming to Yavapai County Standards.
• Be constructed or provided with an approved fire apparatus turnaround for any dead-end easement in excess of one hundred and fifty (150) feet in length.
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© 2004 Lonesome Valley Newsletter, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
DEC 2005
Last update - Dec. 22, 2005. Newsletter comes up around the middle of each month. Please check back for December’s website updates within the next few days. To view things submitted after the current month’s printed version, go to the Updates tab on left. If this page doesn’t display properly, click here as to why.
