Fall Safety
When we're at work, we are on the look-out for hazards. We follow safe practices, and we have a good accident prevention record. Now let's switch the scene over to accidents away from work. Over 9,000 Canadians die as a result of accidents each year and 90% of these fatalities occur off the job.
Home Falls:
- Keep outside steps, sidewalks and driveways free of snow and ice.
- Clean off inside stairs.
- Keep electrical cords away from traffic areas where they could trip someone.
- Do not leave toys, boxes or papers on floors where they may trip someone.
- Use ladders, not chairs for out-of-reach jobs.
- Keep stairways well lit.
Rural Travel:
- Be aware that trucks, slow moving vehicles and animals present hazards.
- Be careful when approaching reduced-visibility areas at rural intersections, curves and hills.
- Try not to pass on rural roads; it's dangerous.
- Do not speed on rural roads.
Fireplaces and Wood Stoves:
- Make sure pipes and chimneys are clean and in good condition.
- Burn seasoned wood to minimize creosote build-up.
- Check stove hinges, doors, latches and gaskets for safety.
- Don't load fireplaces and wood stoves with too much wood.
- Keep flammable materials well away from heating units.
- Don't burn garbage or materials other than wood.
Carbon Monoxide:
- Don't close the fireplace damper until the fire is completely out.
- Have heating systems checked annually.
- Don't use fuel-consuming space heaters, hibachis or barbecues indoors.
- Never run a car in a closed garage.
- Make sure all gas stoves work properly.
- Make certain that all cigarettes are out before going to bed.
Halloween:
- Use make-up instead of a mask to keep vision unobstructed.
- Ensure all costumes are flame proof.
- Supervise youngsters during their collection.
- Remind children to practice safe pedestrian rules.
- Check all collections for hazardous items before allowing children to eat them.
- Provide lots of yard light for young visitors.
