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Safety First

         Now that Christmas is only 2 weeks away, a reminder to be cautious is not out of order. I know everyone is busy, but not using the phone for calling or texting while driving could save your life. Not driving after a couple of drinks is a good idea. Not letting your friends and business associates drive after drinking is responsible thinking.

         Aside from traffic, the home and office are accidents waiting to happen as well. Gift wrap and presents near the heater or fireplace could be a problem. Presents in front of a window invite burglars. Leaving your front door unlocked while you're in the backyard raking leaves can be dangerous. Piggy banks and new toys should be kept hidden when you're not at home or have service people in the house.

         Most home accidents come from slips, trips, and falls. So be sure electrical cords are covered to avoid a heel from getting caught. No toys or empty wrappers should be on the floors or stairs. Check night lights, porch lights, and lights on the stairs to be sure every member of the house or guest can see how to maneuver. Remember, just because you can see the stairs just fine does not mean that Grandma can.

         At my brother's house, there is a tall tree, but there are no decorations on the bottom half of the tree. The toddler is a hazard to himself and others. So we aren't going to put anything on the bottom of our tree, maybe not that high up, for all the toddlers who come to our house. They don't come that often or stay long, but we don't want to lose ancient ornaments that have sentimental value to us. It's better not to use them this year.

         And if you have a live tree, be sure it gets watered regularly.

         At our office, we're not allowed to use any natural product like holly, ivy, or trees, by order of the fire marshal. Be safe. Think safety every day.