Fall Safety Tips Every Family Should Know
Now that fall is officially here, the weather is cooler, pumpkin spice is everywhere, and the days are getting shorter and darker. This is the perfect time of year to enjoy socially distanced fall festivities such as apple picking and making s'mores around a bonfire. It's also a great opportunity to make sure you and your loved ones are set up to stay safe this season.
Here are some practical tips and recommendations every family should know about.
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1. Test and replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking the batteries on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every fall and spring. Smoke alarm alkaline batteries should be replaced at least once a year, and alarms should be tested monthly to make sure they're functioning properly.
2. Get the flu shot.
There is no vaccine yet to prevent the coronavirus, but you can protect yourself against the flu by getting vaccinated in the fall. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine with rare exception. If you're unsure whether you should get the flu shot, talk to your health care provider.
3. Continue to follow the recommended safety precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
According to the CDC, you should continue to practice social distancing, wash your hands often, and wear a mask or face covering over your mouth and nose when around others.
If soap and water aren't readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
And, of course, stay home if you're sick. Contact your medical provider if you're not feeling well — and in the case of an emergency, call 911.
4. Don't get caught in the dark unprepared.
If you're outside after the sun goes down, you need to be wearing reflective safety gear that makes you visible in the dark to motorists. This is true for grown-ups, kids and even the family pet.
JKSafety makes a high-visibility neon safety vest that provides 360 degrees of reflectivity. It's available in multiple colors in sizes from medium to 5XL. If you prefer a loose fit or to wear the reflective vest over a sweatshirt or jacket, JKSafety recommends ordering 1-2 sizes up.
The same brand also makes a kids safety vest that offers 360-degree high visibility. It's 100 percent breathable and machine-washable.
Check out the JKSafety Store For More Reflective Gear and Safety Products
Pets need a little extra help in the dark, too. SafetyPUP XD makes a high-visibility reflective dog vest in multiple colors and sizes.
And if you have a cat who ventures outdoors at night, Bemix makes an affordable set of breakaway reflective kitty collars.
5. Make sure walkways and outdoor areas are well-lit.
Help prevent unnecessary trips and falls by ensuring proper lighting for any outdoor walks and areas where people or pets pass through.
A handy flashlight can help in a pinch, but permanently installed outdoor lighting is an even better option.
[NORECIRC]
This article originally appeared on the DealTown Patch
