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Assembling an Emergency Supply Kit

Assembling an Emergency Supply Kit

Sep 17, 2019 | Safety, Safety

Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends… about Assembling an Emergency Supply Kit

September 17, 2019

Q: Mr. Pedometer, do you have recommendations for Assembling an Emergency Supply Kit?           

A: Assembling an emergency supply kit should be a priority before an earthquake or other emergency situation. September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.  The theme for 2019 is “Prepared Not Scared.”  Here are more tips (from Bay City News) about how to prepare:

Before an earthquake, some steps to take for safety include strengthening your home, securing FEMA 2019 Ready Logoobjects that might fall and gathering critical documents like identification, legal and medical files, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Assembling an emergency supply kit should also be a priority, and FEMA recommends having these items in the kit:

  • Water: Make sure you have a gallon per person per day for at least three days

  • Food: Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable foods, including infant formula and pet food
  • Flashlight, radio and cell phone charger

  • Medical: Include a first aid kit and both prescription and over-the-counter medications

  • Sanitation supplies
  • Assistive technology: Include battery backup power for power-dependent mobility devices, oxygen and other assistive technology needs

  • Clothing and blankets

  • Whistle: Include a whistle to signal for help

  • Fire extinguisher

  • Cash: Store cash in case ATMs are not functioning after the earthquake

More information about earthquakes and resources available before, during and after one is available online.  — Bay City News

We all should strive to live up to the motto of “Prepared Not Scared.”  Don’t forget to have extra batteries for your flashlight and your radio.  And having a whistle on your key chain is a good idea for safety even without an earthquake-sized emergency.   Let’s remind one another to move ahead with emergency preparedness – no more procrastinating!

 

EAT RIGHT, MOVE MORE, AND SLEEP WELL TO BE WELL.

Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian Safety

Sep 26, 2018 | Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends..., Safety

ASK MR. PEDOMETER AND FRIENDS…

September 26, 2018

Q:  Mr. Pedometer, have you noticed how many drivers these days don’t stop for pedestrians in crosswalks?  Makes walking very scary!

A:  According to a recent article in the Independent newspaper, “Since 2012, pedestrian deaths have increased by nearly 33 percent, growing substantially faster than any other type of traffic-related death.”   So you see that your fears are justified.

Pedestrian Safety - Mom and 2 kids stop at crosswalkSeptember Happens to be Pedestrian Safety Month, with the apt slogan “Pedestrians Don’t Have Armor.” However, you do have ways to protect yourself, including the following:

  • BE OBVIOUS AND PREDICTABLE – That means crossing at crosswalks and intersections only. If there is no sidewalk, be sure to walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
  • MAKE EYE CONTACT – Never assume a driver sees you unless s/he is looking directly at you.
  • LOOK LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT – Even if the signal says “WALK,” double-check before stepping into the crosswalk to make sure it is safe.
  • AVOID DISTRACTIONS – Using your cell phone while walking is asking for trouble, particularly when crossing a street.
  • DRESS TO BE SEEN – That means bright clothing during daylight and reflective materials (or a flashlight) at night.

Of course, most adult pedestrians also are drivers.  When behind the wheel, you can make it safer for pedestrians if you

  • STAY ALERT FOR WALKERS – Remember that they have the right-of-way at crosswalks.
  • BE PATIENT – Courtesy – and the law – require that you wait for pedestrians to cross the intersection before proceeding.
  • BACK UP WITH CAUTION – Look for bicyclists or pedestrians who may be approaching.
  • PUT DOWN YOUR CELL PHONE – Driving requires your full attention, for your safety and the safety of others.

In just one year (2016), 867 pedestrians were killed and another 14,000 were injured right here in California, according to the article.  Don’t become a sad statistic!

Tips to Help Your Pet Survive the Heat of Summer

Tips to Help Your Pet Survive the Heat of Summer

Aug 15, 2018 | Advice, Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends..., Safety

ASK MR. PEDOMETER AND FRIENDS…

Q:  Mr. Pedometer, you recently wrote about the “dog days” of summer.  Any advice on how to help our canine pals survive this hottest part of the year?

A:  Good question!  Fortunately, columnist Joan Morris recently offered some great advice in the East Bay Times, including the following:

  • NEVER leave your dog unattended in your car, not even if you park in the shade and leave the windows partly open. Cars heat up fast!  A dog can suffer from heatstroke – possibly fatally – within 15 minutes. “California law now permits people to rescue animals from cars – without legal risk – if they believe the animal is in distress.”
  • If your furry pet spends much time outdoors, “create spaces where they can escape the heat and sun.”
  • Always provide your pet with water when it is outdoors. “Fill a bowl and leave it under a slowly dripping faucet, invest in a water dispenser, or freeze bowls of water that will slowly melt in the heat.  Refill the bowl at least daily, and more often in hot weather.” [NOTE:  You may want to bring in food and water bowls at nighttime, to avoid attracting raccoons, coyotes, etc.]
  • Check your pet daily for fleas or ticks, which are more active in the summer.
  • Wildlife may be more attracted to irrigated landscapes in hot weather, so check before letting out your pet. “If you have small pets, don’t leave them in the yard alone.  Coyotes can scale or jump 6-foot fences, and hawks may view small pets as prey.”  [NOTE:  There have been several sightings of mountain lions within residential areas of Pleasanton lately, according to the police department.]
  • Avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day. “If you have no choice, avoid asphalt and dark pavement, which absorbs the heat and can burn your dog’s paws, and keep walks short. Test the heat by putting your hand down on the pavement.  If you can’t comfortably hold your hand on the surface for at least 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.”
  • If you have indoor pets, “be sure they have access to cooler places in the house and plenty of water.”
  • “West Nile virus has been confirmed in the Bay Area, so protect yourself and your pets by eliminating places for mosquitos to breed. Mosquitos usually feed at dusk and dawn, prime dog-walking times, so if you can’t adjust your schedule, be sure to use repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil.”

Thank you for reminding us that pets need special attention in order to stay healthy during the summer “dog days”!

Know what symptums of a Stroke look like!

Jul 17, 2018 | Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends..., Health, Safety, Wellness

 

ASK MR. PEDOMETER & FRIENDS…

Q:  Mr. Pedometer, recently someone I know died from a stroke because those around him did not know what was happening. Can you please remind us of what symptoms to watch for?

A: I am sorry for the outcome for your friend.  Here is the easy-to-remember F.A.S.T. acronym to recognize and react if you or someone near you is experiencing a stroke:

  • F = Face: Drooping?
  • A = Arm: Weak?
  • S = Speech: Difficulty?
  • T = Time to call 911 if the above symptoms are observed, even briefly!

According to the to the American Stroke Association, as reported by Bobbi Dempsey in “Spry Living”

  • “Up to 80 percent of strokes could be prevented by lifestyle changes….
  • “The biggest risk factor is high blood pressure, so keep your blood pressure under control by
    • watching your diet,
    • getting enough exercise, and
    • taking medications, if necessary…. 
    • “And don’t forget that the guidelines for what is considered healthy blood pressure numbers dropped recently from under 140/90 to 120/80, so even yours has always been fine, it’s a good time to get it checked again.”

Mr. Pedometer hopes you never have to use the F.A.S.T. guidelines, but it always is better to be prepared.

EAT RIGHT,

MOVE MORE,

AND SLEEP WELL,

FOR A HEALTHY, LONGER LIFE!

 

Is Summer Sun Healthy?

Jul 17, 2018 | Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends..., Health, Safety, Wellness

ASK MR. PEDOMETER & FRIENDS…

Q:  Mr. Pedometer, isn’t it dangerous to be exposed to the summer sun on daytime walks?

A: That depends:  As Consumer Reports on Health noted in their June edition,  “While getting too much [sun] damages the skin, letting some sun in may be good for you.”  Here’s why:

  • “Sun exposure’s best-known benefit is vitamin D synthesis, which occurs in the skin in response to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.” Vitamin D promotes absorption of calcium, which helps keep bones strong.
  • “The research is ongoing, but so far studies show that UV exposure might
    • Lower blood pressure (which helps to protect against heart attack and stroke)
    • Curb appetite (which can reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and possibly certain autoimmune diseases)
    • Extend longevity (by 6 months to two years, according to a study in Sweden that monitored 30,000 women for 20 years)

However, those same UV rays can cause sunburn, which is a major risk for skin cancer.  The key is limiting unprotected sun exposure (no sunscreen) to 10-12 minutes TOTAL per summer day.  In general, doctors recommend that we

  • Apply sunscreen to face and hands
  • Wear a broad-brimmed hat
  • Wear sunglasses
  • Limit exposure to arms and legs – and then only if you are NOT taking a medication (such as certain diuretics and antidepressants) that increase your risk of sunburn.

The East Bay Times includes a UV index on its weather page, indicating at what time of day the highest risk is for sun damage to the skin.  Usually, morning walks avoid the highest risk time.

EAT RIGHT,

MOVE MORE,

AND SLEEP WELL,

FOR A HEALTHY, LONGER LIFE!

Worried about rattlesnake sightings?

Jul 17, 2018 | Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends..., Safety, Walking

 

Ask Mr. Pedometer and Friends…

Q: Mr. Pedometer, should we be worried about rattlesnake sightings on trails in this area?  

A: While it is true that warmer weather brings out snakes (as well as humans), there is no cause for alarm.  The East Bay Regional Park District recently posted the following reminders:

  • “Spring and summer are active snake seasons in parks and open spaces. As the weather heats up, rattlesnakes especially become more active. They, like humans, like to explore when the weather gets warm.”
  • “Always hike with a friend so you can help each other in case of an emergency.”
  • “Look at the ground ahead of you as you are walking.”
  • “Look carefully around and under logs and rocks before sitting down.”
  • “Avoid placing your hands or your feet where you can’t see clearly.”
  • “Check the area around picnic tables, campsites, and barbecues before using them. If you   encounter a rattlesnake in these areas, notify park staff.”
  • “Bring plenty of water for yourself and your pets, as many parks do not have direct water supply.”
  • “Keep pets on the designated trails and away from snakes if they see them.”
  • “Snakes are an important resource in the natural environment. They are the primary controlling   agents of rodent, insect, and other reptile populations.”
  • “It is illegal to collect, kill, or remove any plants or animals from the East Bay Regional Park   District.”

Keep in mind that snakes want to avoid us as much as we want to avoid them. They usually will slither away if they sense approaching people. Don’t let worrying about snakes prevent you from enjoying walking on local trails.

EAT RIGHT,

MOVE MORE,

AND SLEEP WELL,

FOR A HEALTHY, LONGER LIFE!