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Dear Holiday Shoppers,
What do you buy for the person that has everything? This year, give your loved ones the gift of safety. Instead of another Barbie, or sweaters they’ll never wear, give your family something that could save their life (and give you a little peace of mind). Coordinator Confession: I am giving several of my family members Disaster Preparedness Supplies this year. The Napa earthquake showed us that we could do more to prepare for a disaster!
Happy Holidays,
Jennifer Rubin, Safe Kids Greater Sacramento Coalition Coordinator
- Boost ‘Em Up – California law was updated on January 1, 2012, requiring that children remain in the back seat in their car seat or booster seat until they turn 8-years-old. Safety experts recommend that children stay in a booster seat until seat belts fit them properly with the lap belt down low across their upper thighs and the shoulder belt sitting in the middle of the collar bone. Write down a child’s weight and height before you head to the store and pick up a colorful car seat or booster seat to keep your favorite kids safe on the road. More car seat information.
- Helmets – Always include a helmet with gift of a bike, scooter, skates or skateboards. Parents should insist that a helmet is worn every time kids ride. Parents should be a good role model by wearing helmets too. More helmet information.
- Alarms = A Good Night’s Sleep – Your loved ones can rest easy when they are protected by smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. All battery-powered smoke alarms sold in California now have 10-year batteries. All older smoke alarms still need fresh batteries every year and the alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Place at least one smoke detector on each level of your house – one in each bedroom is best. CO alarms should be installed on every level of your house and outside each sleeping area. More alarm information.
- Fire Extinguishers – When used properly, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives. Before using a fire extinguisher make sure you have a clear escape route that will not be blocked by fire, make sure that everyone is leaving the building, and make sure that someone has called 9-1-1. More extinguisher information.
For more information visit www.safekids.org.
