Greeting friends and neighbors, Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving! This is a holiday to reflect with gratitude on the blessings we may have—no matter their size. Hopefully you are having a safe and happy holiday with your family, friends, and loved ones, however you choose to celebrate. As we move into the winter months and the holiday season there are a few safety tips to remember:
Fire Safety: - Cooking fires are the number one cause of house fires. Be sure to supervise the kitchen at all times, and keep flammable items away from stove tops and other heating and cooking sources. Christmas trees can also be a fire hazard.
- If you have a live tree make sure it has plenty of water and is placed three feet from any heat source. For artificial trees, make sure they are labeled “fire resistant” and read the directions on all holiday lights. Be especially aware of strung lights, extension cords, and daisy-chained lighting.
- Do not leave any burning candles unattended, especially around young children. Make sure candles are at least one foot from flammable materials.
Traveling Safety: - Check driving conditions and traffic before heading out. Stock an emergency kit in your vehicle equipped with a snow brush, first aid kit, vehicle emergency supplies (e.g. jumper cables), flashlight and batteries, warm clothes, nonperishable foods, and drinking water.
Food Safety: - Pay close attention to cooking temperatures for the meats you may be preparing. Even though it’s cold outside, it will likely be warm inside, especially as the number of people in your space increases. Use the same vigilance you would use in the summer for foods with dairy, eggs, mayonnaise, dips, and salads.
Health Safety: - It is cold and flu season, COVID is still with us, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is spreading, so be sure to take necessary precautions if you or your guests are unwell or are feeling ill.
Carbon Monoxide Safety: - Do not leave your car running in a closed garage. Do not use a gas range or oven to heat your home. Do not use a generator in an enclosed space. Don’t forget to have your fuel-burning appliances and chimney serviced annually. REMEMBER: Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, use a monitor to detect when it is present.
I am so grateful to have been able to serve the people of Senate District 6. Although my time as your state Senator in this district ends in December, it has been a pleasure and a privilege to amplify your voice in Lansing. I am wishing you all a wonderful and safe holiday and safe holiday weekend! |
