Spring has finally sprung, and everyone's ready to enjoy the fresh air and seasonal activities that come with it. From the annual spring cleaning to the outdoor adventures like barbequing and gardening, there's plenty to keep us busy. But in the midst of all this activity, it's important not to let safety slide. A recent guide released by the Washington County Sheriff's Office lays out some basic but essential tips for keeping your domicile and loved ones secure.
When prepping for a spring break getaway, for example, the Sheriff's Office suggests informing a trusted neighbor of your absence to keep an eye out for any strange goings-on. The guide also recommends keeping all yard tools secured, and ladders out of sight to avoid tempting opportunists. And while it might seem harmless to leave a garage door ajar while you're home, it's advised that homeowners keep it shut to fend off preventable property crimes. "Always ensure that doors and windows are locked, even if you only step out for a brief moment to check the mailbox." the Sheriff's Office stated. Similarly, removal of garage door openers from vehicles when not parked at home, could spare families from a potentially devastating home invasion.
With the arrival of warmer weather also comes increased risks related to open windows. The guide underlines the harrowing reality that accidents with children and open windows occur all too frequently but are wholly avoidable. Tips include keeping windows locked when not in use, using window stops or guards to make sure windows don't open more than four inches, and avoiding placing climbable furniture near windows. The Sheriff's Office furthermore advises teaching kids about window safety: "Teach children to stay at least 2 feet away from windows and consistently reinforce this safety rule."
Daylight saving time prompts another safety opportunity, where residents can perform checks throughout the home on devices such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and security systems. Medicine cabinets deserve a look, too, as it's advised to toss out expired medication and replenish first-aid supplies. Additionally, the guide touches on devising an emergency family plan, where everyone knows how to communicate and where to congregate in case of an urgent situation. The Sheriff's Office mentioned, "Family emergency plan: ensure everyone knows how to communicate, where to meet if you are separated, and where emergency supplies are kept."
Turning to outdoor activities, the guide doesn't miss reminding us of the importance of bicycle safety. As bicycling becomes a popular springtime pursuit for many families, it's vital to embody safe cycling behaviors. This means donning a properly fitted helmet, making sure the bike is adjusted for your height, checking the bike's mechanics before heading out, using hand signals for turns, and wearing visibly bright or reflective gear when riding—especially in low-light conditions.
