Spotlight on Electrical Safety

By Patti N. Laird is president of
Safer Kids And Homes, Inc.,
8843 S.W. 132nd Street, Miami, FL 33176.
For more information and free safety checklists, please stop by the store, call 305-854-KIDS or visit www.SaferKidsAndHomes.com.

Electricity is nothing to play around with! Electrical shocks can cause severe burns, brain damage, or death. Protecting your children from electrical shock is one of the first things you need to address when you begin to safety proof your home. Electricity is used everywhere in today’s homes from cell phone chargers to wipe warmers and stereos and it literally takes only a second for your child to be in danger.
A plugged-in lamp or appliance cord is very dangerous in the hands (or mouth) of a small child. If bitten, these cords can allow 120 volts of electricity to pass through your child. All electric cords should be placed out of your child’s reach and sight, if possible. Cords can be hidden and secured behind furniture or covered by various types of cord control devices. It is also very important to check the condition of any cords used, because a damaged or frayed cord is a fire hazard as well.
The primary way to protect little ones from exploring outlets with wet fingers, objects, and even their tongues is to cover the outlets. Traditionally, parents were advised to use small plastic outlet plugs. However, toddlers soon learn to remove these. The plastic device itself can in some cases become a choking hazard and the outlet is left unprotected. There are several safer and more effective devices to cover outlets.
Spring-loaded outlet covers that replace the existing covers are an ideal safety device. An electric plug is inserted into the cover’s slots and the cover will then slide over to match the outlet slots, so the plug can be easily inserted. Remove the plug and the cover automatically slides back into the safe position.
For outlets that have plugs "permanently" used, a cover box can be installed over the outlet and plugs. These covers are designed to be pinched open by an adult-sized hand.
For travel or other "temporary" needs there are one-piece plastic plugs that are designed to be safer if a child got one in his mouth as they are too big to choke on.
Bathroom, kitchen and other "wet" area outlets require the use of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets. These are designed to stop the flow of electricity if a wet finger or a plugged-in appliance comes in contact with water. Even a turned-off appliance can electrify water if it comes in contact with it, so be sure to always un-plug and store appliances out of reach of small children.
Teach your children at an early age about electrical safety and why electricity is so dangerous. Show them by example how to treat electricity with respect and how to safely use electrical appliances. Also remember that adults can become victims of electrocution, too. Make sure you are well-informed about the hazards in your home, then take the necessary precautions so that your home is safe for the entire family.

Minimize Automotive Fuel Consumption

Have we ever been comfortable with fuel prices? Oil, the basic component in achieving automotive fuel, is a commodity like any other. Its value is governed by demand and availability. What makes oil a "Super Commodity" is its ever growing demand and its ever growing scarcity. In addition, oil prices have always been at the forefront of political influence and leverage. It is for this reason that automotive fuel will always be a reason for disparity. You have heard about the infinite conspiracy theories and the hidden agendas, at the end of the day you still have to buy gasoline to get to work and back.
Let’s face it, the demand and the circumstances that determine fuel costs will never be altered by embargoes, boycotts and chain emails. The need simply surpasses the capabilities of any united strike. I compare these feeble attempts to a hunger strike over the cost of food. A steadfast conviction using this method will only end in your demise. In comparison, the lack of fuel consumption will only get you fired, hungry and divorced. As a result, a compromise must be made. Let us focus on what we can control.
Recent rapid inflation of oil prices has made it expensive for even the most efficient forms of transport. For example, a hybrid vehicle, as efficient as it may be, nonetheless it runs on fuel. Moreover, many argue the value in paying the premium and unforeseen expenses these types of vehicles carry is worth the expense. Even Ethanol requires the implementation of oil in the manufacturing process. It is estimated that for every gallon of Ethanol you need 1/3 of oil. That being said, technology is rapidly improving to shift the scales towards other energy sources. Until then, here are some suggestion experts have determined can help you minimize your automotive fuel expense.
Let’s start with the obvious, familiarize yourself with the pricing practices of gas stations in the vicinity of your home and work. For the most part, gas stations which are near highways are about 5-8 cents more expensive. Also, stay away from gas stations which do not have competition. These stations charge between 3 to 5 cents more per gallon. Seek intersections which have at least two gas stations across from one another. The extra competition stimulates competitive pricing. Better yet, competition between a well known brand and a discount dispenser works best. As per the department of transportation, all gasoline and diesel comes from the same place. In other words, a name brand is not using "special" oil to manufacture their product. As a result, don’t be weary about "trusted" discount fuel dispensers. Usually the difference from one manufacturer to the next is the additives they use. Your car’s performance will not be drastically affected by these additives and today’s cars are extremely resilient to the minute differences in fuels.
The biggest factor in fuel consumption is weight. If you would like to extend your mileage, focus on "driving light". Remove your golf clubs, old catalogues, tools, or liquid containers. Travel only with items you will need in your scheduled activities. For short daily chores do not top off your fuel tank. Gasoline has an approximate weight of 5.8 to 6.5 lbs per gallon. Therefore filling your gasoline tank to half its capacity will allow you to travel with less weight. This will ease the amount of energy your engine requires to propel your vehicle. To illustrate the benefits of a light load imagine you must travel through an obstacle course. If you are light of your feet you will get through the obstacles quicker and with less energy. Now picture having to traverse the very same obstacle course carrying a "fanny pack" containing a water bottle. Though the water bottle will help you get further in a long distance run, in a situation where you need efficiency and nimbleness it will only be in the way and it will contribute to fatigue faster. If you are going to practice this suggestion, use common sense and stay within urban areas that have access to gas stations.
The other method to conserve on fuel is to add weight… Human weight, that is. If you have a large vehicle, try to use its size to your advantage. Work out a carpool program with your neighbors and co-workers. Take turns taking the kids to school. Share rides with your friends when entertaining yourselves. If you are planning a road trip, perhaps do it with family and friends so you can share the expense. By implementing these suggestions will you not only share the fuel expense, you will also help the environment and spend some time with your friends.
Lastly, many products have emerged into the market claiming to help you conserve fuel. Results are varied and some are unproven. As a result don’t be fooled by false claims that are only good to separate you from your money. First, when considering these products ask yourself if the purchase price and the installation is worth the savings. Do your homework and search web forums and blogs. The best way to realize a product’s worth is to ask people who use the product. You may visit www.resourceliving.com for links to information on the most popular products.
In conclusion, until we start using the new emerging technologies we are stuck with the pump. Remember to familiarize yourself with the stations in your area, keep your vehicle light on its wheels, share your ride, and don’t fret discount fuel. Most important be aware of market prices and be informed about possible scams. There is no doubt that with oil prices reaching all time highs, scams and fraudulent activities will flourish.
On a last note, remember to enjoy your vehicles. America was built on the freedom of the open road. RS