SMDC Safety: Autumn Safety Tips

By U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety CenterOctober 15, 2015

SMDC Safety: Autumn Safety Tips
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Autumn is a time of year with colorful leaves and pumpkins littering the ground. The season also brings up safety issues for the entire family. Prepare for the changing weather of the fall to ensure that families are both happy and healthy the whole season long.

Colder Weather: As autumn comes into full swing, the temperatures may lower, which can lead to several safety issues.

• Have chimneys and furnaces cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. This helps prevent chimney fires and carbon monoxide buildup.

• Keep fireplace hearths free of newspapers, magazines, toys or anything combustible.

• Do not burn cardboard boxes of trash in fireplaces, as they can cause chimney fires.

• Be sure the house is well ventilated when painting or using other chemicals.

• Leave at least three feet of space around space heaters. Remember to unplug it when not in use.

• Use candles with care. Keep them away from flammable objects. Never leave them unattended and always extinguish them before leaving the room.

Fall Driving: There are multiple autumn safety issues that relate to the road.

• Since days are getting shorter during the fall, more driving will occur when it is dark out. This can lead to drowsiness, which leads to more accidents. Plan for more rest throughout the season.

• School buses will now be present in the morning and small children walking to the bus.

• Leaves may cover the road and become slippery with weather. This requires careful road travel, especially for bicycles and motorcycles.

• Tire pressure can be affected by the cool nights and warm days of autumn. Make sure to check on tire pressure throughout the season.

Staying Healthy: One of the downsides of fall is that with it comes cold and flu season. Here are some recommendations to keep in mind.

• Always get a flu vaccination. While it is not pleasant, it is much better than coming down with

the flu, which can linger for weeks, and in some cases it can even be fatal.

• If people get sick, do should not go to work unless they absolutely have to. A cold or flu can

spread around an office quickly, ruining productivity.

• Always wash hands carefully. One of the best ways to avoid a cold or the flu is to wash hands regularly. Make sure the water is hot, use plenty of soap, and keep hands under the water for at least 30 seconds.

Following autumn safety practices gives people piece of mind that they are taking the proper precautions to keep their family safe as they enjoy this special time of year.

Related Links:

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