Safety Tips

Appliances Purchasing Tips

Credit Card Tips

Trinidad and Tobago Crime Safety Tips

Earthquake

Exam Tips

Flood Precautions

Flooding Remedies

General Home Security Tips

Trinidad and Tobago Hurricane Preparation

Kidnapping Information

Trinidad and Tobago Landslide Information

Purchasing Toys at Christmas Time

Swimming Safety Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appliances Purchasing Tips

Some consumers replace their appliances for special seasons, others replace appliances when an existing one is no longer usable. However, in the haste to get new items, consumers ignore basic shopping rules and therefore encounter several problems after making their purchase. Even though there are problems that consumers cannot foresee at the time of purchase, consumers must follow certain guidelines to ensure that they get value for their money and to minimise the problems they may encounter after.




First consumers should:
 
* Shop around for electrical appliances. Do not settle for an item unless you have seen others to compare prices, warranties, features and after sales service;
* Decide what features you want based on your lifestyle;
* Plan for the future growth of your family when selecting size;
* Measure the available space to store and place the appliance;
* Make sure that the appliance is compatible with the voltage requirement of your home;
* Find out if your appliance comes with a plug. Some appliances come without plugs. You may need to purchase a separate plug to suit your required voltage or an adapter to suit the wall socket;
* Check for approved safety marks or TTBS marks eg (UL) symbol




Make sure that your questions and concerns about the appliance you are about to buy are properly addressed before you make a purchase. Have the following important questions answered.
 
* How easy is it to clean inside and outside?
* Is the instruction manual easy to understand and in English?
* Does the company have qualified technicians to fix the appliance?
* Are there parts in stock for servicing?
* Is there a written warranty?
* Are there different warranty periods for different parts of the appliance?
* How do I care for this appliance to get the most from it?

Remember, the power is yours!

article courtesy of Trinidad Guardian, June 16, 2003

 

 

 

 

 

Credit Card Tips

Steps in protecting your credit card
• Do not volunteer personal information when you use your credit card, other than ID as requested by a merchant.
• Protect your cards as if they were cash. Never let them out of your sight.
• Ensure that your card and a receipt are returned to you after every purchase.
• Always check sales vouchers for the correct purchase amount before signing them and keep copies of vouchers.
• Always check your billing statements and verify the amounts of your purchase. Report any unauthorised charges immediately.
• Make a list of all your cards and numbers and store them in a safe place.
• Report lost or stolen cards immediately.



Source: Tidco/Scotiabank

Article edited from "Three held for credit card fraud" By Robert Alonzo, Trinidad Guardian, February 12, 2004

 

 

 

 

Trinidad and Tobago Crime Safety Tips

Taking the bite out of crime....The crime situation in Trinidad and Tobago is of major concern to every citizen. While public and private agencies are charged with the responsibility of confronting criminals, we as citizens have a responsibility to ourselves, as it relates to our personal protection. I have therefore identified some useful tips we can all use that should diminish the likelihood of us being entrapped in a dangerous situation involving criminals. - By Dwight Andrews, Trinidad Guardian, Sunday, March 03, 2002
Outside the Home
  • Thieves hate bright lights.
    •  
     
  • Install lights outside your home and keep them on at night.
    •  
     
  • Consider motion sensors that set off lights or alarms.
  • Keep your yard clean. Prune back shrubbery so it doesn't hide doors or windows. Cut back tree limbs that a thief could use to climb to an upper-level window.
  • Keep your home, driveway, and other buildings well lighted at night. Use timers that automatically turn on outside lights when it gets dark.
  • Warn thieves you're on the alert with "No Trespassing", and other signs around your property.
  • Leave shades, blinds, and curtains in normal positions.
  • Don't let your mail pile up! Call the post office to stop delivery or have a neighbour pick it up.
  • If you travel, create the illusion that you're at home by getting timers that would turn lights on and off throughout the evening.
  • Lights burning 24 hours a day signal an empty house.
  • Make sure every external door has a sturdy, well-installed dead-bolt lock.
  • Key-in-the-knob locks alone are not enough.
    • Inside the Home
  • Thieves hate bright lights.
  • All exterior doors should be metal or solid wood.
  • Install a peephole or wide-angle viewer at all entry doors so you can see who is outside without opening the door.
  • Door chains break easily and don't keep out intruders.
  • Make a list of your valuables - VCRs, stereos, computers, jewelry. Take photos of the items, list their serial numbers and description.
  • Alarms can be a good investment, especially if you have many valuables in your home.
    •  
     
  • Check with several companies before you buy so you can decide what level of security fits your needs.
    •  
     
  • Do business with an established company and check references before signing a contract.
    •  
     
  • Learn how to use your system properly!
    •  
     
  • Don't "cry wolf" by setting off false alarms.
  • Guns are responsible for many accidental deaths in homes every year.
    •  
     
  • Think carefully before buying a gun or keeping weapons in the home. If you do own one, learn how to store and use it safely.
  • Some less expensive options - a sound-detecting socket that plugs into a light fixture and makes the light flash when it detects certain noises, motion sensing outdoor lights that turn on when someone approaches, or lights with photo cells that turn on when it's dark and off when it's light.
  • Never leave a message on your answering machine that indicates you may be away from home, instead you could say you're not available right now.
    • For Persons with Disabilities
  • Be realistic about your limitations.
  • Avoid places or situations that put you at risk.
  • Avoid establishing predictable activity patterns.
  • Most of us have daily routines, but never varying them may increase your vulnerability to crime.
  • Know the neighbourhood where you live and work.
  • Check out the locations of police and fire stations, public telephones, hospitals, restaurants, or stores that are open and accessible.
  • Put good locks on all your doors. Police recommend double-cylinder, dead-bolt locks, but make sure you can easily use the locks you install.
  • If you have handicaps, have a recorded message (giving your name, address, and type of disability) to use in emergencies. Keep the tape in a recorder next to your phone.
    • Vehicle Security
  • Check your car on all sides before approaching the door. Check inside of car before unlocking/entering.
  • Do not leave valuables visible in your car.
  • Radios, cameras, attaché cases and packages attract attention and can tempt thieves to break in.
  • If the car won't start, either get assistance or get away. Your car may have been deliberately disabled.
  • Do not accept unsolicited offers of assistance. Do not unlock the door to admit a stranger.
  • Sound your horn continuously if a stranger remains around your locked car and appears to be a menace.
  • When visiting, drive into the premises where possible. If unable to drive in, park at a spot where the car can be seen.
  • Drivers should be very cautious while travelling alone at nights. If being trailed, drive to the nearest place of safety, sounding your horn constantly.
  • When driving at nights, select your route and avoid lonely roads.
  • Keep all doors and windows locked while driving. Be on the alert at stop signs and traffic lights.
  • If someone appears to need assistance, drive to a phone and send assistance; do not stop.
  • If you feel you are being followed, commence a series of left turns, (right turns involves breaking the flow of traffic and hence stopping) if you continue to be followed then drive to the nearest police station or open gas station.
  • If involved in a collision, drive to the nearest open place of business or gas station and report the accident to the police.
  • Learn the locations of police stations and other places where police may gather. This knowledge could save your life in an emergency.
  • Avoid parking at lonely spots, while waiting for someone.
  • Park as close to a building as possible when parking at shopping malls or stores.
  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Do not keep car keys and house keys on the same key ring.
    • Personal Security Tips On the Street
  • Do not carry more money or valuables than is necessary.
  • Walk upright and with confidence. Make eye contact as much as possible.
  • If approached by a robber, co-operate, remain calm - surrender your valuables.
  • If you are physically attacked, try to get away if you can.
  • If you have to carry large sums of cash, do not carry it all in one place.
  • Walk on the side of the street facing oncoming traffic.
  • On a busy street, carry your purse or briefcase on the side of you farthest from the curb, and stay close to buildings.
  • If you must walk alone at night, do not walk near cars parked at the curb or close to doorways or shrubbery, which could conceal an ambush.
  • If you must walk at night regularly, vary your route to minimise the possibility of someone lying in wait to assault you.
  • If followed, do not run straight for home unless help is available. Go to an area where there are other people around.
  • Running, screaming, and the use of a loud whistle are recommended defensive weapons.
  • If you witness a crime or accident while on the street, send for help - do no try to help.
  • Only if qualified help is on the way and you are positive there is no personal danger to yourself should you attempt to give assistance.
  • Should you come across an arrest, riot, fire, brawl or other incident, resist the impulse to become a spectator and shield yourself from the action.
    • Personal Security Tips While Shopping
  • Do not carry cash while shopping if, it can be avoided.
  • Use a charge account, followed by (in order of preference) cheques, debit card, credit card, cash.
  • Do not overdress, and avoid wearing jewelry.
  • Shop with a friend whenever possible.
  • Be wary of "bargains" offered by persons on the street.
  • Avoid using ATM machines at night.
  • If you notice suspicious persons hanging-out, wait until they leave or go elsewhere.
  • Crime is like water flowing downhill, it goes to the area where there's least resistance.

    •  

     

     

     

    Earthquake

    Tips on what to do before and during an earthquake

    Before:

     

     
  • Become actively involved in community preparedness organisations in your district.
  • Unstable, heavy furniture should be fastened to a wall or bolted to the floor. When loading storage cabinets heavy objects should be placed on lower shelves.
  • Water heaters and other appliances should be firmly bolted down.
  • All family members should know how to turn off electricity, gas and water using safety valves and main switches.
  • Family members should know basic First Aid steps.
  • Purchase emergency equipment such as battery-operated radios and fire extinguishers for your home.
  • Always have non-perishable food items in stock.

    • During:

     

     
  • Do not panic, stay calm.
  • Always protect your head and face.
  • If inside a building, stand in a strong doorway, or get under a desk, table or bed. Do not try to run out of the building as you can be injured by falling debris.
  • Move away from outer walls, windows, glass doors, heavy mirrors, pictures, bookcases, hanging plants and heavy objects.
  • Look out for falling plaster, bricks, lighting fixtures and other objects.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • If you are driving, you should safely bring the vehicle to a stop away from electricity poles and overhead wires.
  • Remain in the vehicle.
    • Source: Saturday, December 4th 2004, Trinidad Express, Written by By Anna-Lisa Paul
    edited from "Aftershocks...not a quake"



     

    Earthquake Richter Scale
    Magnitude Class Earthquake Effects
    2.5 or less Minor Usually not felt, but can be recorded by seismograph.
    2.5 to 5.4 Light Often felt, but only causes minor damage.
    5.5 to 6.0 Moderate Slight damage to buildings and other structures.
    6.1 to 6.9 Strong May cause a lot of damage in very populated areas.
    7.0 to 7.9 Major Serious damage.
    8.0 or greater Great Can totally destroy communities near the epicenter.

     

     

     

     

    Exam Tips

    General Exam Stress-Busting Tips:
  • Believe in yourself. You wouldn't have been given a place on the course if you didn't have the ability to do it. Therefore, if you prepare for the exams properly you should do fine, meaning that there is no need to worry excessively.
  • Don't try to be perfect. It's great to succeed and reach for the stars. But keep things in balance. If you think that "anything less than A+ means I've failed" then you are creating mountains of unnecessary stress for yourself. Aim to do your best but recognise that none of us can be perfect all of the time.
  • Take steps to overcome problems. If you find you don't understand some of your course material, getting stressed out won't help. Instead, take action to address the problem directly by seeing your course tutor or getting help from your class mates.
  • Don't keep things bottled up. Confiding in someone you trust and who will be supportive is a great way of alleviating stress and worry.
  • Keep things in perspective. The exams might seem like the most crucial thing right now, but in the grander scheme of your whole life they are only a small part.
    •  
    Tips for the revision period:
  • Leave plenty of time to revise so that you don't get into a situation of having to do last minute cramming. This approach will help to boost your confidence and reduce any pre-exam stress as you know you have prepared well.
  • Develop a timetable so that you can track and monitor your progress. Make sure you allow time for fun and relaxation so that you avoid burning out.
  • As soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration, take a short break. You will then come back to your revision refreshed.
  • Experiment with several alternative revision techniques so that revision is more fun and your motivation to study is high.
  • Don't drink too much coffee, tea and fizzy drinks; the caffeine will 'hype' you and make your thinking less clear. Eat healthily and regularly; your brain will benefit from the nutrients.
  • Regular moderate exercise will boost your energy, clear your mind and reduce any feelings of stress.
  • Try out some yoga, tai chi or relaxation techniques. They will help to keep you feeling calm and balanced, improve your concentration levels and help you to sleep better.
    •  
    Tips for the exam itself:
  • Avoid panic. It's natural to feel some exam nerves prior to starting the exam, but getting excessively nervous is counterproductive as you will not be able to think as clearly.
  • The quickest and most effective way of eliminating feelings of stress and panic is to close your eyes and take several long, slow deep breaths. Breathing in this way calms your whole nervous system. Simultaneously you could give yourself some mental pep-talk by mentally repeating "I am calm and relaxed" or "I know I will do fine".
  • If your mind goes blank, don't panic! Panicking will just make it harder to recall information. Instead, focus on slow, deep breathing for about one minute. If you still can't remember the information then move on to another question and return to this question later.
  • After the exam don't spend endless time criticising yourself for where you think you went wrong. Often our own self assessment is far too harsh. Congratulate yourself for the things you did right, learn from the bits where you know you could have done better, and then move on.
    •  
    Jocelyn Peterson's Tips

    Before the exam:
  • Encourage children to believe in themselves
  • Explain to the child that success at exams opens doors of opportunities but do not reflect a true and balanced description of their strengths and weakness
  • Avoid comparing their child with other children as this lowers their self-esteem
  • Be stern with your child, but do not exert too much pressure if you feel that the child is not adequately prepared for the exams.

    After the exam:
  • Prepare your child for insensitive questions or uncaring remarks that may come from adults when the SEA results are out. Let your child know that he is under no obligation to give information he is not comfortable with it
  • Parents must continue to give support and believe in their child even when they are disappointed with the results
  • Negative statements at this time can cause emotional damage and scar young minds
  • Negative statements coming from either teachers or parents could destroy any glimmer of hope that the child may have for success in future examinations
  • Parents must be realistic about their expectations, which must be based on the child's past and present performance
  • It is extremely important to continue building your child's self-esteem after the exam
    •  
    Anna Maria Mora's Tips

    The day before the exam:
  • Both parent and child should remain calm.
  • Parents should not place pressure on the child at last minute.
  • Put the books and pencils down and relax. Spend time with the child and do things that the child likes, for example, take a walk, play a game or cook the child's favourite meal.
  • Reassure him that things would be all right, no matter what the results are.

    The day of the exam:
  • Parents should not wait at the child's school. This gets the child nervous and stressed.
  • Parents should not call on their child's cell phone asking them questions about the exam.
  • Both parent and child should avoid becoming nervous.
  • Children must understand that "this too shall pass;" it is just one step that they must take.

    After the exam:
  • Parents should learn relaxation techniques.
  • Parents should take time off from their busy schedules and spend with their children.
  • Parents should encourage their children in extra-curricular activities, not only academics, to help them to relax their minds and bodies.
  • Parents should remember to praise their children no matter what the results are and where they are placed. Remind them that they still have their support and love.
  • After the exam, children should spend a few quite minutes, saying to themselves, "I am loveable and capable. No matter what my parents are doing to me, I am okay, I'll be all right."
  • Children must not compare answers after they have left the exam room. This can become stressful.
    •  
    Source 1:
    International Stress Management Association(ISMA)
    By Dr Dawn Hamiltion
    www.isma.org.uk/exams.htm

    Source 2:
    By Avalene Harris
    Trinidad Guardian, March 15, 2005

     

     

     

     

    Flood Precautions

    Certain parts of Trinidad & Tobago get flood due to the landscape, this page take from the Express,
    gives hints on how to protect your home from a flood.

    Before a flood
  • Before building, check the area for signs or history of flooding and find out how many feet above flood level you need to build your house.
  • Do not throw garbage into drains and rivers.
  • Put sandbags by exposed openings.
  • Turn off gas and electricity. Unplug electrical appliances.
  • Put dangerous, flammable or explosive liquids in a safe place and close containers securely.
  • Seal important personal, legal and business documents in watertight containers and place above flood height.
  • Take furniture to upper floors or raise on a sturdy table.
  • Secure vehicles.

    • Have the following important supplies ready
  • Food and drinking water.
  • First-aid equipment and medication.
  • Put sandbags by exposed openings.
  • Bucket, cloth and scrubbers.
  • Digging tools (spade or shovel).
  • Flashlights and batteries.
  • Covers and blankets.
  • Wooden planks, hammer and nails.
  • Waterproofing materials: sandbags, plastic sheeting and lumber.

    • During a flood
  • Turn on a battery-powered radio.
  • Evacuate and avoid flooded areas.
  • Do not try to cross water courses.
  • If your car gets stuck, abandon it immediately.
    • Source: Sunday, November 28, 2004 Express, (edited)

     

     

     

     

     

    Flooding Remedies

    Certain parts of Trinidad & Tobago get flood due to the landscape, this page take from the Guardian,
    gives hints on what to do after a flood in cleaning your home

    Books

     

     
  • For your favourite books, it will be wise to wait until they are dried before you start doing anything with them. Then press them together; this helps prevent mildew. A fan also works in hastening the process.
  • Cornstarch and talcum powder put between the leaves of books also work to absorb any moisture left behind. Leave powder in the books for several hours and then brush off. When books are thoroughly dried, close them and use C-clamps to help them retain their shape.
  • A great precautionary measure is to photocopy important papers and documents.

    • Cooking utensils
  • Before you use any pots or pans, make sure they're properly washed and sterilised. Don't be afraid to detach pieces of equipment to clean them. Like removing plastic and wooden handles from frying pans and saucepans.
  • The utensils should also be washed in hot, sudsy water using a brush, if necessary, to remove dirt. When you've done this, rinse in clear water.
  • To sterilise, use a solution of 1 1/2 tablespoons to a gallon of water or immerse dishes in boiling water for at least two minutes.

    • Cleaning flood-soiled carpets
  • Dry them, dry them, dry them - that should be your rules of thumb for cleaning rugs and carpets.
  • To ensure you don't have to replace your favourite rug or carpet it is important to dry them as soon as possible or you run the risk of mildew ruining the fabric.
  • Pull up waterlogged rugs immediately to prevent further damage to the floor. If possible, dry small rugs outdoors in sunlight.
  • To get air and heat to carpets, however, open windows - of course, if weather permits, or use a fan to get the job done.
  • Do not try to vacuum, sweep or shampoo carpets until they are thoroughly dry.
  • Here's another tip: moving the vacuum slowly along the carpet picks up more dirt.

    • Getting rid of the Stench
  • Finally, to get rid of the stench that seems to be unavoidable after a flood, it's best to scrub all interior surfaces that were in contact with flood waters.
  • Use hot sudsy water followed by a rinse solution of two tablespoons of sodium hypo-chlorite (chlorine) laundry bleach to a gallon of water. Or use a liquid household disinfectant, following manufacturers directions. Repeat the scrubbing and rinsing if necessary until the odour is gone.
    • Source: Friday, July 28, 2000 Guardian, Write to; Home Help with Helen
    Trinidad Guardian, 22-24 St Vincent Street, Port-of-Spain.

     

     

     

     

     

    General Home Security Tips

    Don't "welcome" a burglar into your home.


     

    Most residential burglars devote little if any time to the advance planning of any specific break-in. Their crimes are, for the most part, crimes of opportunity. They pick what appears to be an easy mark. If their advance checking and closer examination reveal a greater risk than anticipated, they move onto a safer target. The more you can do to keep your home from looking like an easy target, the safer you are. There are also many steps that you can take to minimise your loss and improve your chances of recovery if a break-in does occur.

    The first step in improving overall security is to take a hard look at the security measures already in use in your home. Conducting a security survey is important. Look at you house at night as well as in the daytime.



     

    Landscaping and Yard Security


     

    A few alterations to your landscaping can be enough to put off intruders. To avoid getting caught, intruders look for property they can get into and out of quickly. Their ideal target is a house surrounded by large hedges and shrubs, which hamper visibility from the street and neighbours houses.

     

    Bushes, Shrubs and Trees: Trim shrubbery and trees so doors and windows are visible to neighbours, and from the street. Trimmed landscaping should not provide concealment for criminals. If you have a second floor, prune trees so they can't help a thief climb in second floor windows. Place trellises where they can't be used as ladders to gain entry to the upper floors.

     

     

  • Ground plants (shrubbery and bushes) within four (4) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors or gates, should be maintained at a height of not more than two (2) feet.

     

    •  

  • Ground plants between four (4) and eight (8) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors, or gates, should be maintained at a height of not more than four (4) feet.

     

    •  

  • Ground plants under windows should be maintained at a height that is below the windowsill.

     

    •  

  • Trees should be trimmed so that the lower branches are more than six (6) feet off the ground.

     

    • Place large gauge gravel on the ground near windows. The noise caused by intruders walking on it can become a psychological deterrent. DO NOT place river rocks or other items near glass windows or doors. You do not want to provide the burglar with his tools!

    Plant spiny (thorny) plants along fences and under windows. Such plants will discourage even the most nimble intruder. Protecting with spiny plants is as effective as the use of barbed wire, and a lot more attractive.



     

    Street Numbers


     

    Street numbers should be easily visible from the street. Critical time can be saved by emergency responders when the street address for the house is visible from a distance.



    On your house:

     

     

  • Use numbers made of reflective materials, or black on white, that are 6 inches high.

     

    •  

  • Keep numbers new and clean and replace when necessary.

     

    •  

  • The numbers should be placed under a light and near the front door or garage entrance.



    Your house number should be painted on the curb in front of your driveway:

     

    •  

  • Four (4) to six (6) inch high black numbers on a white background is most effective.

     

    •  

  • It should be centred at the end of your driveway or just to the house side of your driveway.

     

    •  

  • If you live along an alley your house number should be painted (as stated above) on the fence outside your alley gate.



     

    Limited or Direct Access to Yards and Store Rooms:


     

    • Intruders look for no, or few obstacles blocking quick exits. Fences prevent burglars from carrying away large items if the gates are locked. Gates should be locked at all times, even when your are home!

     

    Ladders and tools should be stored in a garage or storage shed, and these areas should be locked.

     

    Landscaping should also be designed to control access to your property. Proper barriers make the person with criminal intent feel uncomfortable as he or she approaches your home or business.

     

    Information courtes of MTS (National Maintenance Training and Security Company Ltd)

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Trinidad and Tobago Hurricane Preparation

    The Atlantic Hurricane season is usually, starting June 1 and ending November 30. The following activities should be carried out by all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago in order to minimize their risk to hurricane-related damage and losses.

     

  • Check your house for loose roofing, siding, rain gutters and downspouts. Ensure that guttering and down spouts are clear. Ensure that windows and doors are secure.

     

  • Construct wooden shutters to protect windows and doors or have plywood on hand to improvise as shutters.

     

  • Trim trees around your property. Leave a channel through the remaining foliage to allow for air flow. Remove trimmings lest they become dangerous projectiles in the event of high winds.

     

  • Ensure that there are no loose/unsecured objects around your home. (Make space indoors should you need to bring in items like lawn furniture usually kept outdoors).

     

  • Purchase or check your insurance policy bearing in mind these issues:

      • Does it cover wind and storm damage?

      • Does it cover contents as well as structure?

      • Does it include flood coverage or must you get a separate flood policy?

      • Does it cover relocation costs, temporary housing, injury to employees/houseguests?

      • What about deductibles and/or exclusions?


     

  • Secure emergency supplies, medication and equipment. Check that all equipment is in good working order and that supplies and medicines have not expired.

      • Keep a change of clothes, rain gear, sturdy shoes and food stuff for three days packed and ready.

      • Establish/Review your Family Disaster Plan. Remember to include what to do/who to call/where to meet in case family members become separated.

      • Establish contact with your Regional Corporation Emergency Management Committee. Volunteer your services if you have skills that may be useful to them.


     

  • You can also organize an emergency plan with neighbours on your street/in your area.

      • Make arrangements for pets.

      • Keep your vehicle in good working condition and maintain a full fuel tank.

      • Maintain a supply of cash



     

    Information for hurricane preparation courtesy of National Emergency Management Agency

    		•
    Hurricane Scale
    Category Wind Speed Ocean Surge Type of Damage
    1 74 - 95mph (119 - 151km/h) 4-5 feet Minimal
    2 96 - 110mph (152 - 176km/h) 6-8 feet Moderate
    3 111-130mph (177 - 209km/h) 9-12 feet Extensive
    4 131 - 155mph (210 - 248km/h) 13-18 feet Extreme
    5 more than 155mph (248km/h) 18+ feet Catastrophic
     
     

    Preparing to evacuate....

     

  • When a hurricane watch is issued, you should:

      • Fill your automobile’s gas tank.

      • If no vehicle is available, make arrangements for transportation.

      • Fill your clean water containers.

      • Review your emergency plans and supplies, checking to see if any items are missing.

      • Tune in to the radio or television for weather updates.

      • Listen for disaster sirens and warning signals.

      • Prepare an emergency kit for your car with food, flares, booster cables, maps, tools, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, sleeping bags, etc.

      • Secure any items outside which may damage property in a storm, such as bicycles, grills, propane tanks, etc.

      • Cover windows and doors with plywood or boards or place large strips of masking tape or adhesive tape on the windows to reduce the risk of breakage and flying glass.

      • Put livestock and family pets in a safe area. Emergency shelters cannot accept animals.



     

  • If you are ordered to evacuate

      • Take only essential items with you.

      • Leave pets indoors in a safe, covered area with ample food and water.

      • If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity, and water.

      • Disconnect appliances to reduce the likelihood of electrical shock when power is restored.

      • Follow the designated evacuation routes.



     

  • If you are ordered not to evacuate

      • Monitor the radio or television for weather conditions, if possible.

      • Stay indoors until the authorities declare the storm is over.

      • Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed.

      • Stay away from all windows and exterior doors, seeking shelter in a bathroom or basement.

      • Prepare to evacuate to a shelter if instructed by emergency personnel.



     

    Information for hurricane preparation courtesy Trinidad Guardian
    Wednesday, September 8, 2004

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    Kidnapping Information

    How to tell your child about kidnapping
    Courtesy, Trinidad Guardian, Monday, September 19, 2005

    Handling the conversation about security:
  • Your aim should not be to create fear. Your children will absorb your fear, rather than what you are trying to say, and will be ill-prepared to cope with a crisis. Be simple and direct. Let children know that it’s important for everyone in the family to stay safe, so that’s why you’re having this talk. Explain new security measures. Tell everyone clearly what he or she will need to do differently. You need not say, especially to primary age or younger children, that these are to avoid kidnapping. You can simply say that this way they will be easier to supervise or it will keep them out of the way of traffic or various other reasons. Treat new measures as simply part of the normal routine. Show confidence in the measures you have put in place. If the family is now supposed to be safer, you shouldn’t still appear nervous. No protection is absolutely perfect. But you can make a kidnapping so difficult that it is no longer worth any kidnapper’s while to try. Make sure that the security measures around your children’s schools are adequate. You may need to make special arrangements to collect your secondary school child, such as having him/her wait in the library after school or in the principal’s office.

    Talking to little ones:
  • The younger children are, the less you say and the more general you make it. For children seven and under, find out how much they have heard about kidnapping. If they are aware, talk to them about how you keep them safe: that they wait with Aunty after school, that only Uncle picks them up, that they never answer the door or gate on their own. This is also a reminder of security procedures. If the child isn’t really aware of kidnapping, then simply talk through safety measures as a reminder. Tell them about new measures and practise going through these at home. Of course, for little ones, security is really the business of the adults around them. If a young child has only vague fears and anxieties about being safe, then allay these with straightforward information. Tell him/her that sometimes people are mean to other people or try to hurt them to get their money or things. Say this is really unfair and to tell the teacher or you if anyone tries to do this. Children are allowed to defend themselves against bad people their own age or yell loudly for help if the bad person is bigger than they are.

    8 to 12 year olds: This age group will almost definitely know about kidnapping. Give them certain facts: very few people their age are kidnapped; kidnappers don’t want to hurt anyone, they want money; once money is paid, the kidnappers release the person. Children respond well to being given practical ideas and information about security. Empower them by letting them know that they are in charge of certain measures to protect themselves. These should be nothing too demanding: making sure that they are in the right place to be picked up, letting the school guard know if they see any strangers on the compound.

    Talking to teens: This is the age of rebellion and independence. Scolding and ordering about won’t work. Be frank about the risk and the consequences of kidnapping. Point out that it affects the whole family and may change everyone’s life forever. (Resist the temptation to let kidnappers take particularly difficult adolescents.) Talk with your teen, especially older teens, work out appropriate security measures together. Try to include their ideas. Let teens know they can still go out with friends, as long as they can work out how to address your security concerns. It’s their job to devise a suitable security plan and present it to you for approval. Make sure to congratulate them for working out and following a good plan. Suggest they share it with friends.
     
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    Trinidad and Tobago Landslide Information

    Public Advisory — Landslides

    What to do:

     

    •Stay alert.

    •If you are in areas susceptible to landslides and debris flow, consider temporarily leaving if it is safe to do so.

    •Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together.

    •If you are near a stream or channel, be alert for any sudden increase or decrease in water flow and for a change from clear to muddy water.

    •Be prepared to move quickly.

    •Be especially alert when driving. Watch the road for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other indications of possible debris flow.



    What to do if you suspect imminent landslide danger:

     

    •Contact your fire, police or works department. Local officials are the best persons able to assess potential danger.

    •Inform affected neighbours.

    •Getting out of the path of a landslide or debris flow is your best protection.



    What to do during a landslide:

     

    •Quickly move out of the path of the landslide or debris flow. Moving away from the path of the flow to a stable area will reduce your risk.

    •If escape is not possible, curl into a tight ball and protect your head. This will provide the best protection for your body.



    What to do after a landslide:

     

    •Stay away from the slide area. There may be danger of additional slides.

    •Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide, without entering the direct slide area. Direct rescuers to their locations.

    •Help a neighbour who may require special assistance — infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities. Elderly people and people with disabilities may require additional assistance. People who care for them or who have large families may need additional assistance in emergency situations.

    •Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.

    •Watch for flooding, which may occur after a landslide or debris flow. Floods sometimes follow landslides and debris flows because they may both be started by the same event.

    •Look for and report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further hazard and injury.

    •Check the building foundation and surrounding land for damage. Damage to foundations or surrounding land may help you assess the safety of the area.

    •Replant damaged ground as soon as possible since erosion caused by loss of ground cover can land to flash flooding.

    source: edited from Newsday News, Saturday, Janaury 8, 2005

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Purchasing Toys at Christmas Time
    AT CHRISTMAS we're so caught up in the joyous event, like moths to flame, we gravitate towards shopping, gift giving, celebrating, eating, cleaning and did I mention shopping, so much so, that we literally 'wrap' ourselves right out of the loop. The information loop that is. As consumers we forget to pay attention to labels and messages of caution and regrettably buy ourselves into traps, which have the tremendous potential for becoming disasters at some point. Thankfully, we can depend on advisories posted by the Consumer Affairs Division of the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Bureau of Standards, as a means to protection. For those more technologically savvy information seekers, there's always the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website www.cpsc.gov.
     
    Felecia WS Thomas, head of the pre-package Goods Unit, Implementation Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards highlighted key requirements that should be available on the label of both Christmas decorations and toys. There must be a brand name, name and address of the manufacturer/distributor, country of origin, net contents (as applicable), composition/components (as applicable), warning symbols and statements (health and safety instructions), instructions for use, expiry date (where applicable) and storage conditions (where applicable).
     
    Thomas also volunteered pertinent information with regard to the purchase of toys and Christmas tree lights:
    • Always read the labels of all toys purchased for children. Read the label to glean an idea of the recommended ages. Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child.
    • Parents are also advised to consider the ages of all the children present in the household. Some toys may be safe for an older child but may be unsuitable and possibly dangerous in the hands of a younger child.
    • Check instructions for use. If they are unclear to you, or in a language other than English, pass on to the next toy on display.
    • Look at the labelling to determine the nature of the material from which the toy is made. If the materials are toxic or flammable, leave the toy in the store.
    • For infants, toddlers and all children who still place objects in their mouths, avoid toys with small parts as they pose a choking hazard. Make sure that soft rattles and teething toys, even in their most compressed state, are too large to fit completely in an infants mouth.
    • Bypass all toys with sharp edges, splinters and points.
    • 'Ride-on' toys should be strongly built and stable. Check to determine stability.
    • Ensure that all mechanical parts are enclosed and out of reach of a child's small probing fingers. Push and pull toys should have rounded handles and well secured moving parts.
    • Discard plastic wrappings, pins and paper on toys immediately, before they become deadly play-things.
    • Look for electrical toys that have third party certification marks on them. (UL and CSA are the most common.) Periodically check battery operated toys for leakage of the battery. Remove batteries before storing for extended periods.
    • All toys should be easy to clean.
     
    A safety mark UL or CSA ensures that the Christmas lights you purchase are safe for use. If there is no safety mark, the possibility always exists that the lights may be hazardous to your family's safety.
    • Where lights do not have the necessary protection against voltage above the safety limit they are in fact potential fire hazards. Absence of a safety mark is therefore your signal to ask the retailer some further questions.
    • When purchasing Christmas tree lights ensure that the UL mark sticker is on a holographic label attached to the string of lights. Even when the box states that the lights are UL listed ensure that you also check the string.
    • Note that a decorative lighting string for indoor use should be marked with the words "for indoor use only." In cases where the set can be used for indoor and outdoor use, the words "for indoor and outdoor use" must be on the packaging.
    • Each plug must contain a fuse. A fuse ensures that if there is a break in the circuit anywhere or a surge in the power supply it will work to break the circuit and thereby prevents fires.
    • The size of the wire connecting the lights is important. Any wire of the size 1.5 mm is considered to be of an acceptable size. Anything smaller than this size is considered a fire hazard. This pertains only to indoor lights. Outside lights should have wire of the minimum size 2.5 mm. When using indoor/outdoor lights, care should be taken to ensure that water does not in any way come into contact with the plug of the lights.
     
    If you want to be on the ball of information on recalled items, the CPSC website www.cpsc.gov should be your next stop. Visitors can easily manoeuvre and access documents with considerable ease. I quickly clicked on recalled toys, and found CPSC's results of investigation of the yo-yo water ball, which only a few months ago gained notoriety in Trinidad and Tobago. The report stated that there is a low but potential risk of strangulation from the yo-yo water ball toy. The stretchy chord of the toy can wrap around a child's neck when the child swings the toy overhead like a lasso.
     
    The report continued that the Commission had received 186 reports of incidents in which the yo-yo ball toy's chord wrapped around a child's neck. In all cases it said, a parent or child successfully removed the chord from the child's neck. Although there were no lasting injuries, seven cases reported broken vessels affecting eyes, eyelids, cheeks, neck, scalp or the area behind the ears. The commission also investigated reports of potential toxicity from the liquid inside the toy and flammability from a flame test of the yo-yo ball toy. CPSC staff found no toxicity or flammability concerns. CPSC chairman, Hal Stratton made it clear however that the commission will continue to monitor incidents involving the yo-yo waterball toy.
     
    It is a fallacy to think that renowned toy manufacturers do not produce dangerous toys. Fisher-Price in 2000 announced a recall of baby jumper seats and construction toys. Approximately 882,000 hop skip jumpers and 267,000 big action construction toys were recalled. The hop skip jumper is an activity seat for babies to sit in while suspended from a doorway. There is a spring attached to a suspension strap, allowing babies to use their feet to bounce up and down, while being supported by the seat.
     
    The document goes on to state that the spring that suspends the jumper seat from the doorway can break. Babies can therefore fall to the ground and suffer serious injuries. Fisher-Price received 80 reports of the springs breaking. Twenty babies were injured. The injuries included nine lacerations to heads, five of which required stitches or staples, a dislocated tailbone, a black eye and bumps, bruises and scrapes. The document also stated that, "Only model 9144 and 9146" were recalled and stated that Fisher-Price would help consumers determine if they had a recalled jumper.
     
    Fisher-Price big action construction toy is a large plastic construction set that features a rotating crane that sits on top of a construction site. The crane has a bucket that is attached by a 25-inch strap. The bucket can be raised and lowered by using a turning crank on the crane. Children can wrap the 25-inch strap around their necks, posing a strangulation hazard. Fisher-Price received 16 reports of children wrapping the strap around their necks. Seven children suffered minor injuries. In 2001 IMT Accessories of New York, NY recalled 70,000 Barbie TM sunglasses. It said that the frames of the sunglasses can break, allowing the petroleum distillate and floating glitter to leak out. It further stated that petroleum distillates could be harmful to children's eyes and skin and could be fatal if ingested.
     
    IMT Accessories received one report of a six-year-old who received chemical burns in her right eye as a result of petroleum distillates leaking from the sunglasses when she was playing. The recalled sunglasses have a pink tint to the eyeglasses, have floating glitter in the temple of the sunglasses and say Barbie TM and Mattel R on the left side of the earpiece and they also say China on the right side. The key is that brand name has nothing to do with the toy. Read all instructions and information to make an informed decision. It is illegal to use fire crackers in Trinidad and Tobago, and fireworks should be launched 60 feet away from a roadway and supervised by a responsible adult. So there you have it. Some safety information, that will surely go a long way towards ensuring a more festive and enjoyable Yuletide season.
     
    article courtesy Roxanne Stapleton, Trinidad Express, November 19, 2003

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Swimming Safety Information
    Whether it is the Easter, Summer, Christmas Holidays or a day on the beach its bring with them both fun and danger. Every year people have drowned during trips to beach, rivers and even swimming pools. The Trinidad and Tobago Life Saving Society, the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation Life Guards, and the Coast Guard have prepared these water safety tips for the public.




    Water safety tips They are
    • communicate with lifeguards about sea conditions
    • if there are no lifeguards, observe water conditions carefully or ask residents about safe bathing areas
    • alcohol and swimming never mix!
    • avoid areas where there are potholes, shifting sand and a brownish water discoloration
    • always supervise children in and around water
    • non- and weak swimmers should not venture into water higher than the waist
    • swimmers should swim parallel to shore
    • non- and weak swimmers should not use inflated devices in water
    • diving into unknown waters and rivers is dangerous
    • after eating, wait at least one hour before going into the water
     
    article courtesy of Trinidad Express, April 12, 2001