Modern Security Solutions – Jacob S Paulsen www.jacobspaulsen.com Page 1

Survive Anything

The Most Comprehensive (Non-Classified) Guide to Personal Security & Emergency Preparedness Ever

Written

By

Jacob S Paulsen

Modern Security Solutions – Jacob S Paulsen www.jacobspaulsen.com Page 2

Contents Home Security ............................................................................................................................................... 5

Home Security Checklist ........................................................................................................................... 5

After Moving In Security Checklist: ....................................................................................................... 6

Home Fire Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 8

Winterize Your Home .............................................................................................................................. 10

Home Inventory: Minimize your Risk for Loss ........................................................................................ 12

Car Alarm - Your Best Friend ................................................................................................................... 13

Summer Vacation .................................................................................................................................... 15

Seven Ways Your Smartphone Doubles as a Personal Security Device .................................................. 17

Bump Key Technique for Picking Locks ................................................................................................... 19

More on Bump Keys ............................................................................................................................ 22

How to Setup Your Home Video Surveilance System ................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

Your Safe Room ....................................................................................................................................... 23

Family Emergency Procedures ................................................................................................................ 23

Away From Home........................................................................................................................................ 26

Put Ice In Your Cell Phone ....................................................................................................................... 55

Life Hammers .......................................................................................................................................... 45

Children In School: Safety First ............................................................................................................... 26

School Bus Security ............................................................................................................................. 31

How to protect your children from "strangers" .................................................................................. 31

Talk to Your Kids About Guns .................................................................................................................. 32

Hotel Safety Precautions ......................................................................................................................... 44

Outdoor Survival ..................................................................................................................................... 32

Finding North: Every Trick in the Book ............................................................................................... 33

Forest Fires .......................................................................................................................................... 38

Hiking & Camping ................................................................................................................................ 39

Hiking Checklist ................................................................................................................................... 40

Lightning Safety ................................................................................................................................... 41

On The Water/Boat Safety ...................................................................................................................... 41

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Boating Safety Tips .............................................................................................................................. 41

Adrift on the Water? Surviving afloat. ................................................................................................ 42

How to Tail A Thief!................................................................................................................................. 43

How to Lose Someone Who is Tailing You .............................................................................................. 46

If you are in a vehicle: ......................................................................................................................... 46

If you are on foot: ............................................................................................................................... 47

Avoid Being Carjacked............................................................................................................................. 47

How to Hotwire a Car .............................................................................................................................. 48

Air Travel ................................................................................................................................................. 43

Winter Driving ......................................................................................................................................... 50

Firearms: Safety & Personal Protection ...................................................................................................... 51

Courses Available in Your Area: .............................................................................................................. 51

NRA Courses: ....................................................................................................................................... 51

State Concealed Weapons Course: ..................................................................................................... 51

Private Instruction:.............................................................................................................................. 52

Care & Storage of Ammunition ............................................................................................................... 52

Gun Safety Rules ..................................................................................................................................... 52

Air Travel with Firearms .......................................................................................................................... 53

First Aid & Medical ...................................................................................................................................... 55

Heimlich Maneuver ................................................................................................................................. 55

Control Bleeding ..................................................................................................................................... 55

Physical Shock ......................................................................................................................................... 55

First Aid Kit .............................................................................................................................................. 56

CPR .......................................................................................................................................................... 57

Adult CPR ............................................................................................................................................ 57

Child CPR ............................................................................................................................................. 57

Infant CPR ............................................................................................................................................ 57

Surviving The Heat .................................................................................................................................. 57

Heatstroke ........................................................................................................................................... 58

Heat Exhaustion .................................................................................................................................. 58

Heat Cramps ........................................................................................................................................ 59

Internet & Computer Safety ....................................................................................................................... 59

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Internet Safety for Our Children ............................................................................................................. 63

Holiday Safety ............................................................................................................................................. 64

Halloween ............................................................................................................................................... 65

Thanksgiving ............................................................................................................................................ 65

Thanksgiving Dinner Safety: ................................................................................................................ 66

Thanksgiving Travel Safety .................................................................................................................. 66

Christmas Decorations ............................................................................................................................ 66

Online Security Resources .......................................................................................................................... 67

Modern Security Solutions – Jacob S Paulsen www.jacobspaulsen.com Page 5

Home Security

Home Security Checklist The number one greatest thing you can do to ensure your family’s security is to choose a home in a safe

neighborhood in a safe community. Research indicates that there is no single greater factor to ensure

your family’s protection from crime and attack. Local law enforcement agencies are a good resource

along with your state government website where crime statistics are usually published for the public

every quarter. Put your family’s safety ahead of your own career when finding a good home. Please

consider the following when moving into a new home:

· Windows and deadbolts - Be sure all windows in the home seal and lock securely and cannot

be easily opened from the outside. Also be sure there are deadbolts installed on each door

leading outside. It is wise to change all locks when moving into a new home. You cannot be

sure who was given a key by the previous owners or contractors.

· Lighting - Make sure the street is well-lit at night. Also be sure there are an adequate number

of porch lights on the front and back of the home. Consider installing motion-sensor porch

lights. These automatically turn-on should someone enter your property at night.

· Home inspection - Have an inspection done on the home by a professional, licensed home

inspector. The inspector will ensure the home is structurally sound, the wiring is safe and all

gas lines are working properly. A mold inspection can also be done on the home. Do not

assume the home is safe because you had it built personally and are the first to move in. Still

have a home inspection completed by an outside party.

· Smoke Detectors - Be sure there are smoke detectors properly dispersed throughout the

home. Test these when moving in and continue to test them monthly.

· Neighborhood exits - Be sure there is more than one exit from your neighborhood. If a street is

blocked due to an accident or disaster, it is important to be able to exit the neighborhood if

necessary. Before moving in, familiarize yourself and your family with these exits.

· Schools - If school-aged children will be in the home, find out about the schools in the area.

Know the rate of education and the safety of the school. This information can be obtained

from the school directly as well as local law enforcement agencies and neighbors.

· Traffic - If moving young children into a home, be sure you are distanced from busy roads. Get

an accident report on the area and simply ask neighbors about the traffic flow.

· Area crime report - Get a crime report of the neighborhood. Call the local law enforcement

offices and ask questions about the neighborhood. Be sure you are informed of any crimes

committed in the neighborhood, including gang-related activity. Again, you may get

information from neighbors.

· History of the home - Know if any crimes were committed in the home.

· Sex offenders - Know if there are any registered sex offenders living close by. Because the law

requires sex offenders to register, states are required to post this information online;

http://www.fugitivehunter.org/registries.html.

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· Distance to hospitals, fire stations and police stations - Be sure the home is within a reasonable

distance of a hospital and law enforcement offices. Know the quickest route and phone

numbers to each.

After Moving In Security Checklist:

1. Smoke Detectors: According to the National Safety Council, fire kills more than 2,900 people and

injures 16,000 others each year. Most fires that claim lives occur at night. Install smoke detectors

on every floor and outside each bedroom. Test detectors once a month, and change batteries

when you adjust your clocks in the spring and fall.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide - an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas - killed

300 people last year and sent thousands more to the hospital. For between $40 and $170, a CO

detector will alert you if deadly poison has begun to invade your home. Place a CO detector

outside bedrooms.

3. Radon-Detector Kit: The Environmental Protection Association says radon might be responsible for

up to 30,000 lung-cancer deaths each year. Hardware stores carry do-it-yourself radon-detector

kits for less than $40. Follow directions carefully, especially regarding the placement and

preparation of the room.

4. Night Lights: Simple, inexpensive night lights can prevent late-night falls. Place night lights away

from flammable fabrics like bedspreads. Also, look for new night lights with LCD bulbs. Be sure you

have adequate lighting in all of your rooms. Newer night lights contain light sensors, which

automatically turn on in the dark and off in the light. Some models also double as emergency

flashlights when the power goes out in your home.

5. Sensor Lights: Outdoor motion-sensor lights can help you see your way at night and scare off

intruders. Usually, you can replace existing light fixtures with sensor lights without additional

wiring.

6. Sturdy One-Step Stool: Invest in a sturdy one-step stool to keep on hand when reaching things on

top shelves or in high cub bards in your home. This is safer than standing on a chair or a counter.

7. Rubber Suction Bath Mats/Slip-Resistant Throw Rugs: A suction-type rubber mat or adhesive-

backed appliqués will keep you steady in the shower stall and tub. A nonskid rug outside the tub

will prevent slips when you step out. Use slip-resistant rugs throughout your home.

8. Handrails: Every set of stairs, whether inside or outside your home, should have sturdy handrails

securely mounted to the wall. Stairs and steps account for nearly half of all fatal falls in the home.

9. Deadbolt Locks: Put a deadbolt lock on every entrance to your home. Ask the locksmith for a

deadbolt lock that's pick-, drill- and bump-proof. Such locks start at $150. Invest in sturdy doors; a

good lock doesn't serve its purpose on a flimsy door. Another lock that's important is one for your

gun cabinet. Always lock your gun, if you have one, and lock up your ammunition separately from

your gun.

10. Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters: GFCIs stop the "juice" before electricity can leak out and hurt

you. Although most new homes come with GFCIs, older homes may not have them. You can

replace outlets for $9-$13 each, or you can purchase plug-in or portable GFCIs for about $12-$30

each. Use them throughout your home, especially in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room.

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11. Fire Extinguishers: Fire extinguishers have categories for different types of fires. For the home,

experts recommend a "BC" or an "ABC" extinguisher. Never purchase or use an "A" extinguisher in

your home. These water-based extinguishers can cause flames to splatter or cause shocks in an

electrical fire.

12. First-Aid Kit: The kit should include (among other items) antiseptic ointment, bandages and gauze

pads in assorted sizes, adhesive tape, cold packs, disposable gloves, hand cleaner, scissors and

tweezers, syrup of ipecac and eyewash. Check expiration dates and periodically restock. Educate

yourself on how to treat injuries.

13. Flashlights: Keep flashlights where you can easily get to them in case of power outages and severe

weather. Test them regularly. Keep extra batteries close by so you don't have to fumble blindly in

an emergency.

14. Written Family Evacuation Plan: Preparation and practice for all emergencies is vital for all families.

Know the fastest way out of your home and how to not become trapped. Your home should

include two exits from each room. Practice an evacuation plan with your family before a real

emergency hits. Have a designated "safe room" for your family in case of an emergency.

15. 72 Hour Kit: When disaster occurs, grab this kit to take with you. Such a kit would include such

essential supplies as nonperishable food, water, cash, flashlights, tools, a battery-operated NOAA

all-hazard alert radio, and a first-aid kit. To save time when evacuating, you can store this kit in a

car or in an unattached garage. View additional information here.

16. NOAA All-Hazard Alert Radio: This radio will help you in a weather emergency, such as a tornado,

hurricane, earthquake or other emergency. You'll pick up the frequency of the National Oceanic

and Atmospheric Administration, which will include instructions on whether to stay in your home,

when to evacuate, and the status of the emergency event. You can purchase such a radio at a local

electronics store.

17. Posted Emergency Phone Numbers: Your posted list should include the local police and fire

departments, your vet, and your physician. Also include the numbers of friends or relatives and

your local poison control number. The American Association of Poison Control Centers has

established a nationwide number for people to use to reach their local poison control center (800-

222-1222.) Post your list by every phone in the house.

18. Tagged Shutoffs: Know how to shut off valves for gas, oil, water, and your home's main electrical

supply. Tag each valve so you can easily identify the switch in an emergency.

19. Safe Room: A safe room is a designated room in your home that serves as a refuge from danger.

This room (often the master bedroom) must contain all necessary equipment protect you and your

family from a threat. In homes with multiple levels more than one safe room may be necessary.

20. Hidden/Diversion Safes: One of the easiest ways to protect valuables is to hide them in diversion

safes. Home diversion safes can be disguised as books, peanut butter jars, or wall paintings.

21. Get a Dog: In a recent survey among USA law enforcement officials when asked “What is the single greatest

thing we can do to our home to prevent home invasion and burglary” the number one answer was, “Get a

dog.” The second most popular answer was to get a “ Home Security Alarm” sign and install it in a

prominent place. Naturally big loud dogs are best and dog barking alarms can be purchased for little to

nothing. Diversion signs can also be found for sale.

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22. Firearm Safe: Firearms should be locked in secured firearm safes. They should be stored in non-

traffic areas of the home.

Home Fire Safety

Facts

80 percent of all fire deaths occur in the home (U.S. Fire Administration)

The leading cause of fire deaths is careless smoking (U.S. Fire Administration)

Having a working smoke detector more than doubles one's chances of surviving a fire (U.S. Fire

Administration)

3,675 people died in fires in the United States in 2005 - one person every 143 minutes. While the

number of fires increased in 2005 over 2004, the number of deaths decreased 5.8 percent.

(National Fire Protection Association).

In 2005, 106 firefighters died in the line of duty in the United States - down from 117 in 2004 (U.S.

Fire Administration)

Adults 65 and older are more than twice as likely to die in fires as the overall population. (U.S. Fire

Administration study)

People born in 2003 have a 1-in-1,100 lifetime odds of dying due to exposure to smoke, fire or

flame. Odds in any given year are 1:86,000. (National Safety Council)

Smoke Detectors

One is definitely NOT enough! Every home should be equipped with smoke detectors on every

level, particularly outside of sleeping areas.

Ensure that your smoke detectors are tested monthly and batteries are replaced twice a year.

Change batteries when you change your clocks.

Encourage children to help test the smoke detectors. Familiarize them with the sounds of the

alarm(s).

Fire Extinguishers

Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen (one rated for grease fires and electrical

fires.)

It's a good idea to keep fire extinguishers near the furnace, garage, and anywhere else a fire may

start. These extinguishers are affordable, life-saving equipment for your home.

Make sure every able-bodied member of the family is trained and familiar with the proper way to

use the fire extinguishers.

If you must use an extinguisher, make sure you have a clear way out in the event you can't put out

the fire.

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Flammables

Keep matches, lighters and candles out of reach and out of sight of children!

Smoking is dangerous! No one should ever smoke in bed. Make sure that cigarettes/cigars are

extinguished properly before dumping ashes.

Avoid grease build-up in the kitchen and on appliances. Cooking fires are common. Don't leave

food cooking on stovetops unattended.

If a fire should occur, suffocate it with a pot/pan lid or a cookie sheet, or close the oven door.

Around the holidays, Christmas trees are a primary concern. Consider using an artificial tree that is

labeled "flame resistant." If you do use an evergreen, water it daily to keep it from drying out.

Make sure to inspect stringed lights and window ornaments annually for deterioration.

Dispose of materials from fireplaces and grills in non-flammable containers.

Never put children to sleep in "day" clothes. Fire-retardant sleepwear can make a difference in

burn outcomes.

Electrical Safety and Heat Sources

Make sure your electrical system is not being over-taxed. This can cause a fire. Do your lights dim

or flicker when extra appliances are plugged in? If you have questions or concerns, consult a

certified electrician.

Inspect wires. If you find any worn or exposed wiring from appliances, discontinue their use

immediately! A fire is imminent!

Space heaters can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure yours will automatically shut off

if tipped over. Consult the operating instructions to make sure you are using space heaters, gas

fire places, and other heat sources as intended by the manufacturer. Keep all flammable materials

away from heat sources! If there are young children in the house, make sure space heaters and

hot water heaters are inaccessible.

Chimney fires are common. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.

Keep appliances unplugged when not in use.

Escaping a Fire

Keep bedroom doors shut while sleeping. If you think there is a fire, feel the door and knob for

heat before opening.

Have an escape route for each area of the home and a designated meeting place outside.

Draw a map-one that's easy for all members of the family and visitors to understand.

When planning for a family with young children, be sure to teach them not to hide from fire or

smoke and to go to firefighters who are there to help them.

All children should be familiar with the ideas of "crawling underneath the smoke" to escape a fire.

"Stop, drop and roll" is another safety principle that must be ingrained into children's minds.

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Multi-storied buildings are of special concern. Ensure that everyone is familiar with how to use an

escape ladder if necessary.

Make sure every sleeping room has two means of escape in the event of a fire. Windows provide a

secondary means of escape. Ensure they are in proper working order, are not painted shut, and

guards are able to be disengaged in case of fire and escape is necessary through that window.

Everyone must understand that once you escape, you must never reenter a burning building-no

matter what you might have left behind.

Call emergency responders (911) from a neighbor's house.

Make sure to practice your escape plan periodically. It will be easier to remember in case of an

emergency.

Young children should know their street address and last name (and, of course, how to dial 911).

After you've planned for the family, don't forget the pets. Alert firefighters about your pets. Don't

rely on window or door decals to alert firefighters-such decals are often found to be outdated. In

the event your pet suffers from smoke inhalation, rush the animal to the vet.

Some of these Home Fire Safety Tips were reprinted. Permission to reprint granted by the National

Safety Council, a membership organization dedicated to protecting life and promoting health

Power Outage Today more than ever before it would take very little to take down our power grid. A computer hack

could shut down 1 of 3 US power grids for an unknown length of time. Even if you aren't worried about

some apocalyptic we all still recognize that extreme weather and other local issues can still put our

homes without power for hours to days without any warning. Here are some tips to prepare and deal

with power outages.

One of the immediate concerns of a power outage is heat or cold. Without your furnace or air

conditioning running you may soon find yourself in a very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous

position in your home. In colder climates try to buy a home with a fireplace. Some of the newer gas

fireplaces can still run without electricity if they are manually lit. Also, many of the gas fireplaces can still

burn wood in an emergency. Make sure you have enough wood on hand to sustain you for several days.

Open windows to allow the sunlight to come in and add heat. In hot climates move your family down to

the bottom level or basement of the home where cool air is likely to congregate. Close window blinds to

keep the heat from the sun from coming in.

To prevent food from spoiling have a few coolers on hand. Keep your ice maker in your freezer/fridge on

and running so that you will have some ice to pack into your cooler with food. For a power outage of

less than 4 hours there is no need to remove anything from the freezer or refrigerator. Open the doors

as infrequently as possible and eat the most perishable foods first. Start eating from the refrigerator first

and then the freezer. A freezer will keep food cold for up to 24 hours if the door remains closed. If the

power outage continues beyond a day use your coolers and pack them with ice where possible.

Turn off electronics. When the power comes back on the surge can damage them. Leave one light on so

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you will know when the power comes back.

The other critical concern is water. Depending on how widely spread the power outage is you should still

have access to pressurized water. Capture as much as you can. Consider a bath tub emergency water

container (below). These fit into virtually any bath tub and can hold up to 100 gallons of water safely

and free of contaminants.

During power outages and local emergencies looters and burglars thrive. Lock doors and windows and

be more cautious about answering the door. Ensure that firearms and ammunition are safely accessible.

During a prolonged emergency secure your outdoor BBQ grill with propane tank. The propane will

become very valuable. Consider bringing it indoors when not in use.

Ensure that your emergency kit contains the following:

Water—one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)

Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for

home)

Hand crank or alternative powered lantern and/or flashlight

Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

Extra batteries

First aid kit

Medications (7-day supply) and required medical items

Multi-purpose tool

Sanitation and personal hygiene items

Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to

home, birth certificates, insurance policies)

Cell phone with chargers

Family and emergency contact information

Extra cash

If someone in your home is dependent on electric-powered, life-sustaining equipment,

remember to include backup power in your evacuation plan

Keep a non-cordless telephone in your home. It is likely to work even when the power is out.

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Keep your car’s gas tank full and keep other smaller gas cans full in your storage.

Winterize Your Home As winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop, it is important to prepare your home for the cold

months that lie ahead. Preparing in advance may save you money, time, work and stress later. Follow

these steps to prepare your home for winter.

1. Have an HVAC professional inspect your furnace. Make sure the furnace is functioning correctly

and is clean. Stock up now on filters and change them monthly. This helps the furnace work

properly and cuts cost on your heating bill. Be sure all flammable materials are removed from

around the furnace.

2. Seal gaps that may allow cold air to enter. Leaks most often occur around doors or windows. Be

sure your doors have adequate weather stripping and windows seal correctly. If necessary, apply a

cold-weather calk around windows. This can save a lot on your heating bill.

3. Inspect your roof and gutters. Be sure there are no leaks in your roof and all shingles are properly

in tact. Clean gutters as often as necessary as leaves quickly fill them.

4. Install/check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test your detectors and always keep extra

batteries on hand. Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and/or water heater to

monitor levels. Always have a fire extinguisher on hand.

5. Take steps to prevent plumbing pipe freezes. Drain all water hoses. If your sprinkler system does

not drain automatically, call someone to have it professionally drained. This can cost less and be

less hassle than repairing a leak later. Run water frequently, even just briefly. If you leave for a

weekend or more, keep the heat on no lower than 60oF and keep a faucet dripping to maintain

water flow.

6. Trim trees with long, weak branches. As snow piles on trees, weak branches are likely to break.

This can cause injury to people or your home.

7. Have Emergency Supplies on-hand. In case of a power outage or furnace failure, it is important to

have at least one portable heater in your home (one that can switch to gas, propane or battery-

power). Have multiple heavy blankets easily accessible. Because the nights are longer in the

winter, have an adequate amount of flashlights (with fresh batteries) and emergency candles on-

hand. Also have enough bottled water in case of a pipe burst or if water becomes unavailable.

Have available a propane or gas stove in case of electrical failure.

8. Have your chimney inspected. Be sure it is cleaned of leaves, dust and bird nests. Be sure it seals

tightly when the fireplace is not in use.

Home Inventory: Minimize your Risk for Loss Could you remember everything you own in the event of a burglary, fire, or other disaster? According to

the terms of your homeowners, windstorm, and/or flood insurance policy, you must prove the condition

of your home and your personal property prior to the loss in order to recover anything when filing your

claim. In most cases this can only be proven by photographs and digital documentation of your home

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and its contents via a professional home inventory. Such a service can also help substantiate losses for

income tax purposes.

Every disaster recovery organization, including the Red Cross and United Way recommend conducting a

home inventory to document your home and belongings prior to a natural disaster.

In addition to helping you prepare for a natural disaster or burglary a professional home inventory will

also give you an estimated value of your own personal property. This can be a great tool in

estate/financial planning. The total estimated value of your personal property plays a part of your total

net worth.

Insurance Companies & Law enforcement have been telling us for a long time to catalog our personal

property. Have you already inventoried your home? As a home owner you have probably considered

taking a home inventory on various occasions but have never found the time, were unsure of how to

proceed, or didn't understand the value it could provide to you and your family. Below are some

suggestions on how to complete a home inventory:

1. Take photographs or video of everything. Having a written record is not enough. Take pictures

of all your private property.

2. Things to inventory include: Appliances, Furniture, Jewelry, Clothing, Artwork, Decorations,

Silverware & Cutlery, Books/CDs/DVDs/Tapes, Electronics, Sports Equipment, Toys, etc.

3. Keep a copy of your inventory somewhere secure outside of your home, such as a safe deposit

box.

Car Alarm - Your Best Friend Put your car keys beside your bed at night. If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to

get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will

continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies.

Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think of this: It's a security

alarm system that you probably already have and requires no installation. Test it. It will go off from most

everywhere inside your house and will keep honking until your battery runs down or until you reset it

with the button on the key fob chain. It works if you park in your driveway or garage.

If your car alarm goes off when someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the intruder won't

stick around. After a few seconds, all the neighbors will be looking out their windows to see who is out

there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.

And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot. The alarm can work the

same way there.

Non-Monitored Security Systems I often get questioned about how I feed about monitored security systems. The answer: I don't trust

them. According to a recent article in the New York Times, 80% of all instances are false alarms and the

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average response time for law enforcement is between 7 and 45 minutes (depending on the size of the

city). Add the cost to the equation and I just have never been able to justify a system.

There are alternatives. The number 1 deterrent for burglars and home invaders is a dog. A loud dog is all

the deterrent most homes need. If you don't want a dog or perhaps can't have one due to family

allergies you can also purchase a machine that makes the dog barking sound and place "Warning Dog"

signs on your home or fence.

You can also find and purchase non-monitored security systems that have the same immediate effect as

monitored ones. They are still viewable by the criminal and can still make the on-site sound/light as a

monitored system. While you may have to pay a lot more up front you will not have any ongoing

monthly costs and you can purchase the components you feel are most important for your family

(window & door sensors, cameras, motion, etc).

Setting Up a Home Surveillance Video System Requirements:

A protected wireless network. (Password Protected Wireless Router)

A significant amount of internet bandwidth. We have appx 20MB from our cable internet

provider.

A power outlet at each camera location. (Batteries won’t last long)

First thing you need to do is some shopping. You are looking for a “Wireless IP Camera.” There are many

brands and providers. Some of the most reputable include D-Link and Foscam. Read all the product

specifications. Please understand that the software that allows you to monitor and operate the cameras

is built into the cameras. They are their own computers and when you access them you will be logging

into the computer installed on the camera. So, understanding fully the various features included in that

software as well as the hardware is critical.

Some features to look for:

How many unique cameras can be added to a single network?

Does it offer the ability to detect motion?

Does it Pan & Tilt (this is a feature worth it’s money)

Does it have some form of infrared technology that allows you to see in all lighting conditions?

Does it have a microphone and/or speaker built into the hardware?

Can you setup preset positions?

Does it come with any mounting hardware?

Can you record video?

Hopefully the cameras you select will come with detailed instructions to set them up. I will have to be a

little more generic here since I don’t know what you will be acquiring.

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First, you will need to plug the camera into your wireless router directly with an Ethernet cable. This has

to be done initially so that you can program the camera to login to your wireless network. Once you

have plugged it in, your instructions should give you a specific IP address to type into your browser that

will allow you to login to the camera.

REMEMBER: the software is running on the camera itself. There is no program on your computer.

Nothing to install.

Once logged into the camera you should be able to program it to login to your wireless network. There

will be a variety of other configuration steps you may need to take. These should include selecting a

wireless port, username & password, and nickname. When selecting a wireless port, be sure to pick a

random 4 digit number. The default number provided in the instructions may not be ideal. This port

number is a big part of the security of your video surveillance system so it needs to be super unique. If

you are using more than one camera you will need different port numbers for each one.

How to Monitor Your Wireless IP Cameras?

You will probably find that you need to use Internet Explorer to take advantage of all your camera’s

features. There are also a large number of apps available for Android or iOS that will fully monitor

and/or operate your cameras. Search for IP Camera in the App Store or Google Play. If you intend to be

able to access your cameras outside of your home network you will probably also need to add each of

your cameras (with unique IP address and port) to the firewall exception list in your router’s

configuration. When accessing them outside of your home network you will need to use your home IP

address with port number along with proper security credentials.

Garage Door Security Concerns For most homes the most vulnerable point is the garage door. Most homes have a garage door and not

only does it often provide an easy entry it also gives the criminal a place to hide and find shelter. A

casual passerby wouldn't think there was anything unusual about an open garage door and a truck or

van in the garage.

The most common vulnerability of the garage is an opening technique famously called the "Six Second

Open" used widely by thieves around the world. The technique involves inserting a hooked rod like a

coat hanger and engaging the emergency release that takes the garage door off the mechanical controls

and allows it to be opened manually by simply lifting up the door. (Watch This Video). As you see in the

video this can generally be prevented with a few simple plastic ties.

In addition to this common issue that can be quickly resolved, here are some other important tips to

helping you secure the most vulnerable point of the house.

1. Make sure the door between your garage and your house is a strong and reinforced door as strong as,

or stronger than, your home's front door. Install a deadbolt if there isn't already one and lock it all the

time. Key it to be the same as the front door so you can use the same key to open it and lock it.

2. Don't leave your garage door open. Even if you are the type to do some handy work in the garage

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with tools etc, you should still keep the door closed. Leaving it open makes it far too easy for criminals to

identify your valuables and make a quick entry and exit every time you enter the house for a quick

moment.

3. Install a wide-angle peephole in the door to the house from the garage. If you hear a strange noise in

the garage it may be a huge risk to unlock and open that door. Getting a view through the peephole or

an installed security camera can save you from significant hazard. (Security Camera Tutorial)

4. Frost or Cover your garage windows both in the structure and the door itself. Allowing criminals an

easy view into the garage to identify if anyone is home and/or to identify valuables and other

opportunities is a bad idea. Give up a little of the natural light for some better protection.

5. Maintain the garage door well so it isn't so easily forced open. Watch for corrosion and have it

inspected once every 5 years.

6. If your garage door was manufactured or installed prior to 1998 you should have it replaced right

away. Older technology makes it very easy for thieves to duplicate the signal from your remote that

opens the door.

7. Install the a deadbolt and when you are away from the house for extended periods of time engage

the deadbolt.

Diversion Safes Burglars are very skilled in knowing where in the house to look for valuables. Most Americans have

patterns in hiding places. Often the best place you can hide some of your cash, jewelry or other small

valuables is in a diversion safe. A diversion safe, often referred to as a hidden safe, is a container

disguised as a normal household object. There are a large number of very affordable options on

Amazon.

You can find anything from cans of food, water bottles, rocks, wall outlets, wall clocks, books, cleaning

supplies, and clothing diversion safes. In shopping for and selecting diversion safes for you home please

consider the following:

1. What objects would fit in. If you don't store a lot of bottled water in the home than that single

bottle in the pantry or fridge is going to draw some attention. Select items that will be seen as

one among the many.

2. Where possible consider how you might make your own. Burglars are starting to become

familiar with the more common diversion safes. If you can make your own you can have a even

more effective tool.

3. Having multiple diversion safes is a good strategy. Separate various valuables in the home into

several diversion safes. This decreases your liability of all your valuables being found and makes

it easier for you to access things you may need.

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Summer Vacation Your home is most vulnerable when you are away. Intruders are quick to notice dark windows; piled up

mail or newspapers; and closed windows in hot weather. Here at JES; we hope this simple check list will

assist you in protecting your home while you are away.

· The best protection for your home is to ask a friend to house sit. Not only will this make your

home appear lived in, but your house sitter will also be able to take care of your pets, plants,

mail, and other potential household emergencies.

· If you can't find a house sitter, ask a neighbor check on your home while you are away. This

includes opening and closing curtains; gathering mail & newspapers; and turning on lights,

radio, & TV to make your home look lived in.

· Don't record a voicemail message that alerts others to your trip. Also be sure to call in and

access your voicemail while you are away. If your voicemail box fills up, it will be a sure sign to

of your absence.

· Regardless of whether or not someone is looking in on your home, it would be wise to put

some lights and the TV on a timer. Darkness & silence announce to others you are not home.

· If you don't have a neighbor or friend you trust nearby; request a hold on your mail and

newspapers. https://dunsapp.usps.gov/HoldMail.jsp

· If you rent; be sure to check your lease. Many landlords require you let them know if you will

be away. This allows them to enter in case of an emergency.

· Don't forget to leave phone numbers of where you can be reached with your house sitter and a

neighbor. Also leave the phone number of your pet's vet, and numbers for local law

enforcement.

· Mow your lawn before you leave. If you will be gone for an extended period of time, arrange

for someone to maintain your yard.

· If you haven't already; install motion detection lights in your back yard. Most modern models

won't turn on during the day so you can leave them on 24 hours a day.

Seven Ways Your Smartphone Doubles as a Personal Security Device 1. If you are lost or kidnapped: Modern smart phones come GPS enabled. For little to no cost you can

download and install software onto your phone that will allow authorities or loved ones to log in to

a 3rd party website to track your phone. Most of these services also include options for backing up

data from the phone, remote wiping the memory and locking the device to prevent calls. In

addition to helping you track down your lost or stolen phone it could potentially help authorities

track you down if you become lost or stolen and your phone is on you or your attacker. Even if

your phone is not GPS enabled authorities are able to triangulate your position based on the GPRS

signal from the cell phone towers. This can often pinpoint your location within a 50 ft radius. If you

are in a boat that is capsizing, put your phone in a plastic bag to keep it dry, and blow air into the

bag before sealing it to be sure it floats. This will help rescuers find your location in an emergency.

Mobile Security Software Suggestions: (iPhone) (Android) (BlackBerry) (WindowsMobile) (Nokia

Symbian)

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2. In a world of viruses and hackers you may wonder where you should be keeping your most private

and sensitive data. Online servers or other “password vault” services are vulnerable and your

computer is just as weak to crashes as viruses and hacks. The answer is on your smart phone’s SD

memory card. Cell phones are virtually impossible to hack from a remote internet connection. As

long as you keep your Bluetooth turned off, or at least make your phone “Not Discoverable” you

remain safe from any local hackers too. Even if you break or damage your phone, the memory card

will not be damaged easily and even dropping your phone in water will not cause you to lose any

data. Are you afraid you will lose your phone? No problem if you are employing one of the

programs mentioned above. Just remotely backup your data and then wipe the memory device.

3. ICE: EMTs and hospital staff across the nation are being trained to look in the address book of a

victim’s cell phone for an emergency contact. You are advised to create a new contact in your

address book under the name of ICE which is an acronym for In Case of Emergency. This

empowers emergency medical technicians to contact a loved one to ask about allergies to

medicines or to simply inform them of your injury or accident.

4. Cell Phone users are less likely to be victims of random attack. Next time you find yourself in a

quiet parking lot or in a dark alley just pull out your cell phone and call someone. If they don’t

answer, pretend that they did and begin a fake conversation with their voice-mail. Potential

attackers are likely to avoid people who are on the phone since the potential victim could easily

describe the assailant or at least alert the 3rd party to the action. What should you talk about?

Your location and your surroundings. Also indicate that you are on your way to meet with

someone else. Example: “Yeah I just came out of the building on the south side. Where are you

meeting me? I don’t see you yet, how far away are you?

5. Ever had a phone conversation that you wish you had recorded? Use your phone. Most phones

have the option to record voice notes and many smart phones have 3rd party software that will

even allow you to record phone calls. Next time you are in a debate with your boss or an argument

with your ex spouse… record it. Without drawing any attention turn on the recording feature on

your phone and set your phone down on a surface where the microphone will be between you and

the other person. Be aware that each state has different laws that govern your right to record

conversations with or without the consent of all parties.

6. Having a cell phone means having constant access to a digital camera. Use it. Next time you are

involved in or witness to a traffic accident use your phone to take pictures of all the damage and

the license plates of the cars involved. Other good times to take pictures include when you meet

someone for the first time, when driving somewhere for the first time (landmarks), or when you

rent a car or check into a hotel room (existing damages).

7. Of course a cell phone can be used to call 911 from anywhere. Any cell phone can dial 911 even

without having been active on a current plan. The international universal mobile emergency

number is 112. Keep your old cell phone in the trunk of your car along with a charger to use in case

of an emergency when your own phone is dead or unavailable. Purchase a “crank” cell phone

charger that will power your emergency phone with a little muscle work. This would be especially

useful if someone threw you in your own truck and left you there. Especially seek out an

emergency phone with CDMA service. CDMA technology has much wider coverage in remote areas

outside of the city. The biggest CDMA wireless carriers in the US are Verizon and Sprint.

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Cell Phone Conversation Security A few years ago I was in Washington DC for business and I was able to connect with a good friend of

mine who works at the Pentagon. He works in anti-terrorism and understands personal security better

than most people I know. I took a glance at his cell phone that day and saw a very strange silver thing

plugged into his earphone jack. It didn't have a cable or anything that suggested it had any real

functionality at all. I asked him what it was and the conversation we had changed my life.

They Can Listen

You see every cell phone has a microphone on it. These microphones are very advanced and can pick up

relatively quiet sounds even in environments of a lot of background noise (consider how you use

speakerphone while driving). Your wireless carrier has the ability and technology to remotely activate

your cell phone and listen thru the microphone to any sound or conversation around the device. The

government doesn't permanently listen to all our conversations as some conspiracy theorists would

have you believe but if they had the bandwidth they technically could. As my friend described it, "if a

suspected terrorist is running through central park talking to an associate, we might gather some parts

of their conversation by activating the microphones of every cell phone in the park."

If the government can do it, anyone else who could gain access to the system, legally or illegally can do it

to.

How To Protect Yourself

The only way to be absolutely sure that nobody is listening in on your conversation through your cell

phone is to fully disable the microphone. There is a simple trick to doing this. You see when you plugin a

headset or earphones that have an external microphone (most phones comes with these now) the

device disables the onboard hardware microphone and instead relies on the external microphone for

sound. So, if you plugin something into the jack that tells the phone there is an external microphone but

really there is not; voila you have disabled the microphone for as long as that is plugged in. That day in

DC my friend was using a product that is not available on the open commercial market. I searched high

and low online trying to find a product that I could buy or recommend to my clients and students. There

isn't one.

How to Make Your Own

Find an old (or new) pair of hands free headphones. Be sure they have a external microphone and aren't

simple for remote audio listening. Generally you can ensure there is an external mic by looking at the

plug itself. Look for three lines instead of the traditional two. (See image below)

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Cut the cord off of the headphones right at the jack. Voila, there you go. It may

look strange to walk around with that in your phone but it will serve the

purpose. When you get a phone call that you want to answer or when you

want to make a phone call just unplug your new "anti-bug" jack and proceed. If

you want to get fancy you could attach your "anti-bug" to a small cord or strap

that hooks onto your phone as most modern phones have a place to connect a

strap.

How to Record Your Phone Calls In an ideal world you would record all your phone calls. Not only would this potentially come in handy in

sticky legal situations but it also helps to have a record of what was said so you can review details. With

land line connections the technology was easy and it was easy to record all incoming and outgoing

phone calls but cell phones have added a layer of complexity.

There are a number of devices that you can buy on the market that will plugin to your cell phone's

handsfree jack and allow you to patch it to a audio recording device. Most of these are bulky and they

act as adapters at best. The best and newest tech in the market are the bluetooth recording devices. The

bluetooth technology eliminates the wires with a clean audio patch via bluetooth. The other beauty is

that these bluetooth recording devices have built in recording systems. They vary in storage space and

features but even the most basic of these devices is functional to store hundreds of hours of

conversation. (See below product recommendation).

What about the potential legal issues? Best to check with your local laws to ensure compliance. Most

states have single party consent laws which essentially require that in order to record a conversation

one of the parties of the conversation (not all of the parties) must be aware it is being recorded. Your

state laws may vary and it is best to confirm with an attorney.

Security With Download Phone Applications The average user in the United States has downloaded and installed 32 non-stock applications (or apps)

onto their smartphone. The power users, which represent about 10 percent of consumers, have

downloaded an average of 75 applications onto their smartphone. With the billions of apps available to

be downloaded from the Apple App Store, Google Play, and the Amazon App Store, it has become very

challenging for providers and carriers to police the store for apps that invade privacy and inject malware

and viruses onto phones. Consumers are left on their own to be aware of the dangers. A recent news

story reported that all of the top 10 flashlight apps in the Google Play store are malicious and send one's

data overseas.

Protecting Yourself Starts With Understanding App Permissions

App permissions are the terms of use that you are forced to review and approve when you download an

application to your phone. Sadly, many consumers are in the habit of not reading or reviewing them at

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all. For those who do proactively choose to read them they still confront the challenge of understanding

what they mean and what may be indicative of a red flag.

Red Flags:

-Location Services: There are two types of location permissions. First is GPS/Precise location and the

other is Network based (city level) location. If an app is supposed to use mapping services, tell you what

is near you, or help you search for local businesses it will need to know where you are and probably will

request a GPS location. Also, apps that serve location based advertising in their app will need your

location, but a network based location should suffice. If you don't like the idea of the app knowing your

location you shouldn't install it.

-Phone calls -- read phone status and identity: This single permission has a lot tied up into it. It could

mean that the app needs to be able to read when there is a phone call and who is calling whom. It could

mean they need to turn audio control back over to the phone. This would make a lot of sense. It also

likely means the app needs your deviceid which is a unique identifier for your phone that identifies you

from other devices. This generally is used for a variety of advertising parameters or as a method to

identify and store your app preferences on the developers server. This is the most often abused

permission. If you don't immediately understand why the developer needs this permission send them a

quick email and ask.

-Your personal information — read your contacts: This is my biggest red flag. Why would the application

need access to read all your contacts and their information. Only contact related apps generally need to

do this. A lot of social network apps or SMS apps also need access in order to allow you to access your

contact book to search for contacts to whom you wish to send a message.

-Watch out for apps that want to make phone calls, send messages, and use network data (internet).

The key is to just review these permissions and consider if this is what you think the app really needs to

serve the purpose for which you are downloading it.

-The Size of the App: Simple apps like a flashlight app should be smaller than megabite (MB) when

downloaded. If you see a simple app that is several megabites that is concerning as it might have

malicious code included in the download file that will infect your phone.

What If I Think I've Been Infected?

Uninstalling apps that you think may have been malicious may not remove all the damage. Often the

app has already installed malware and trojan software on your phone that will not be removed when

the application is removed. Often the only way to be sure you have cleared any malware is to do a hard

reset to the phone, deleting all information and taking it back to factory settings.

Your other potential course of action would be to download a reputable app that can scan your device

for malware and vulnerabilities and help you identify and remove them.

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Games Tend to Carry The Greatest Infections

Be extra cautious with any games you may install. The files are generally larger for game graphics and

they have an easier time concealing dangerous permissions and file based malware.

Warn Your Children

Kids often become the easiest targets as they are even less likely to read, understand, or care about the

permissions they are granting. They also tend to be the first users to try new apps and download a high

number of games.

Bump Key Technique for Picking Locks When we leave the house, go to bed at night or are just home alone; many of us lock our doors for

protection. We even install dead-bolts for extra protection. What if these weren't enough?

Lock bumping has been a favorite lock-picking technique for more than 50 years. This method is gaining

popularity because it is fast, easy and only requires a basic key and a file. 95% of locks (including dead

bolts) on American homes are vulnerable to the lock bumping technique. The scariest part is that

anyone can do it with no special tools or training.

More on Bump Keys

The locks on our doors (including dead bolts) all work in the same way. As the key moves down the

cylinder of the lock, the cuts in the key move stacks of pins. Springs behind the pins push the pins back

after the high point of the key is passed. When the pins are correctly aligned, the cylinder turns freely.

This method works on regular locks as well as dimple locks.

Bump keys have found a way to fool the cylinder into thinking the pins are aligned correctly. A regular

key is filed so all the cuts are at maximum depth. The key is inserted completely into the lock then pulled

out one notch. A small amount of pressure is applied to the side of the key and the key is taped with an

object such as a hammer. This displaces the pins allowing the key to turn as a normal key would. This

method works on the least expensive to the most expensive lock.

There are ways to protect yourself against lock-bumping. Many companies have come out with basic

locks that are "bump-proof." When buying a lock, research thoroughly as to whether the lock is bump-

proof.

Another precaution is to buy a keyless lock. These locks are opened when a code is punched in. Make

sure the lock is not a combination code lock and key lock. These can be bumped as well. These locks also

protect against other types of picking.

Please research any lock before making a purchase. Make sure to purchase the lock that will best ensure

the safety of you and your family

For more information on key bumping please follow these links.

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http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5177213949300140850#

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lock_bumping

http://www.bumpkey.us/

Family Emergency Procedures Establish emergency procedures with your loved ones. In addition to standard fire escape routes and

safe rooms for your home also consider the following.

Decide on key rendezvous locations and assign each one a code name. Potential locations could include:

relative/friend’s home, zoo, shopping mall, etc. Also establish a code name for each family member and

an emergency phrase that family members can use to signal that they are under duress.

Keep emergency stashes of the most important essentials in key locations. Essentials may include: cash,

firearm plus ammunition, photocopies of passports birth certificates and insurance policies, a prepaid

cell phone w/ charger, etc. Storage locations may include: safe deposit box, buried lock box in one of

your key rendezvous locations, rented storage space, etc.

Your Safe Room If an intruder entered your home, would you be prepared? Would your family know what to do? In case

such a threat is present, it is important to be prepared.

A safe room is a designated room in your home that serves as a refuge from danger. This room (often

the master bedroom) must contain all necessary equipment protect you and your family from a threat.

In homes with multiple levels more than one safe room may be necessary.

Your safe room should have the following characteristics:

1. Reinforced: This room should have a solid door with a lock

2. One Point of Entry: There should only be one entrance and exit to and from the room. Because

a window can serve as a second point of entry, the safe room should be on an upper-level of

the home if possible.

3. Windows: Using a room with windows as the dedicated safe-room makes communication with

police easier. Using a window as an escape may be dangerous, as you will be abandoning your

safe-room. If a window-escape is part of your defensive plan, ensure an upper-level safe-room

contains a fire-escape ladder.

4. Equipment: Your safe-room should contain, at minimum, the following items:

a. Telephone - Program any emergency numbers into the speed dial. Also a cellular

phone if possible.

b. A flashlight and fresh batteries

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c. Firearm and ammunition - This should always be stored in the safe-room. Should you

experience a home intrusion; you may not have time to retrieve your firearm from

elsewhere in the house, and come back to the safe-room.

d. Items providing cover - This may include a bed, a filing cabinet, a bookcase, or a

dresser. Be sure to have adequate cover for all members of your family who may take

cover in the safe-room.

e. Extra house keys attached to a large, reflective keychain - This can be thrown out the

window to officers who may need to enter your house.

Talk with each member of your family and be sure they know which room in the house is the safe-room

and what to do should they have to enter the room in case of a threat. Have a designated signal to alert

your family to such an emergency. Review the protocol often to ensure your family is well prepared. The

most important thing in any kind of emergency is to have a plan.

Emergency Water Storage Aside from air, water is the most critical part of survival and human life. Even with all our modern

technology the earth's water reserves are drying up. We are trying to do more with less and in an

emergency, water will be an extremely valuable commodity.

How Much Water Should You Have in Storage?

Each person needs one gallon of water per day. This is 3/4 a gallon for drinking and 1/4 a gallon for

cooking and hygiene needs. Common natural disasters like major earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and

tornadoes tend to leave local residents without water for 5-7 days. So, for a family of 4, you would need

28 gallons of water to last a week.

In some drier or hotter climates experts recommend double that amount or 2 gallons per person per

day. If you are limited by your water storage capacity you may also consider alternatives methods of

purifying and cleaning water to supplement your emergency water storage.

For a point of reference:

American households, on average, use about 150 gallons of water per person, per day! That includes

showers, dish washing, laundry, cooking, cleaning, as well as, of course, actual drinking water.

The average person loses about 2.5 quarts (2.5 liters) of fluid each day due to urine output, sweating,

bowel movement, and breathing. With increased activity or hot environments this number would

increase, often dramatically. (A hiker in the desert can lose more than 4 quarts of fluid a day just due to

sweating!) Environment and body size and type also play a role in how much fluid you lose.

Sources: data360, Mayo Clinic, Thur-Hiker

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Water Storage Containers and Systems

First you need to consider the weight of water. A gallon of water weighs approximately 8 pounds. Thus,

a two day supply of water for a family of four (8 gallons) weighs 64 pounds.

Most smaller, commercial bottled water systems are not recommended for long term storage since they

are made with HDPE plastic. These are not quality plastic and are easily punctured and don't generally

create a strong seal. Instead look for bottled water made of PETE plastic. A case of 24 bottles of water

can be convenient in an emergency to take with you. Pay attention to expiration dates on commercially

bottled water.

Some of the best and most portable water storage systems have strong handles for carrying and a spigot

for pouring. The Aqua-Tainer by Relianceholds 7 gallons (54 pounds). Look for similar products in the

camping section of your local store. They often come in smaller sizes so you can ensure you can carry it

when full of water. Ensure that whatever you buy is made from FDA approved materials. Stay away from

anything that contains BPA.

As an economic alternative you could use 2 or 3 liter soda bottles. Be sure to clean them with soap and

water to the point that you can't smell the previous contents. Old milk jugs cannot be fully cleaned from

contaminants and are not considered good water storage systems.

For larger storage you should look for 55 gallon drums. FDA, food grade 55 gallon drums can be

purchased online or from many local emergency preparedness stores. 55 gallons of water provide nearly

two weeks of water for a family of 4 people. Filled, they will weigh approximately 440 pounds and

cannot be tipped, let alone moved.

Water will last forever (without any sort of treatment or drops) if it is not contaminated. Rinse your

container well before filling. If you have to use a hose to fill it, be sure to use a FDA, food grade water

hose and not a standard garden hose. Don't open it until you really need it to avoid potential

contamination.

You will need some sort of manual pump in order to get the water out of it. Often these drums are sold

with a usable (albeit cheap) pump that will work. Any food grade plastic tubing can function as a siphon

to get water out in a bind.

Most of these drums require a BUNG wrench to tighten and seal the lids.

Water Storage Location

Store your water in a cool, dry place, not subject to freezing or any significant variance in temperature.

Do NOT store water storage containers directly on concrete. The chemicals from the concrete can seap

into the container and contaminate the container. Place a section of carpet or plywood between the

container and the concrete.

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Do not stack water containers higher than the manufacturer's recommendations.

Away From Home

Survival Caches I'm guessing the majority of your survival tools, resources, and supplies are in your home. You may have

a smaller pack in your car but most likely if you couldn't get home or if your home was burnt or

otherwise destroyed you would be without much of what you need to survive. A survival cache is a

hidden container that includes various survival materials you can access when you have no other

resources available to you.

Where to put it?

Often survival caches are buried on one's property, although that doesn't seem like a very practical

location considering the purpose of the cache. More prudent would be to seek out a location on an exit

route not to far from your home. There are three critical factors to consider. First, nobody else can

stumble upon it accidentally. Second, you will be able to find it when necessary. Third, it isn't soo far off

the beaten path as to be impossible to reach. Most survival caches are buried but you might also be able

to secure it high in a tree or some other awesome creative place. If you need ideas you might consider

getting into the hobby of geocaching. There are a lot of creative hiders in that game.

What to put in it?

Naturally you are restricted based on the size of the container. Consider:

-First Aid Kit

-MRE

-Water purification systems

-Fire starting kit

-Knife / Multi-tool

-Handgun and Ammunition

-Spare Clothes

-Cash

-Paracord or rope

Offsite Meeting Place What if it wasn't safe to return to your house? It could be a natural disaster or an even more serious

situation. Your family needs a pre-arranged place where you can meet in these circumstances.

You should probably identify two different meeting places. One that is relatively close to your home and

one that is further removed in case a disaster warrants leaving the city or state.

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If you are unable to communicate with each other in the moment due to being under duress or some

type of communications/power blackout you need to know in advance what those meeting places are.

Ideally these meeting places should also have a code name that you can use that won't tip off anyone

listening as to the true location. I have found that often the best places have either a landmark that

carries a name that isn't widely known or a place that has personal and sentimental significance so you

could refer to it in a way that is only known to family members.

Earlier we discussed Survival Caches. Where possible, the best place to hide one is at these offsite

locations.

Security at the Sporting Event Are you a stadium goer? Sporting events pose a unique set of security risks and concerns. Anytime you

put tens of thousands of people in the same place you open yourself up to increased hazards.

Pick Pockets?

Big crowds like those at games are a primary target for pick pocketers. Its easy to bump into someone

and its easy to disappear into a crowd. Thieves also know that people carry a lot of cash at the game and

they can easily observe people accessing an on-site ATM and retrieving a wallet to buy concessions and

souvenirs. It is most difficult to steal something from someone's front pant pockets than the rear. Keep

your valuables in front pockets and limit the bulk. Consider just taking your ID and some cash into the

stadium and leaving the rest of your purse or wallet secure in the car. Being prepared with some cash so

you don't have to use the ATM and packing in food will also prevent observers from making you a

primary target. You can also employ a quality money belt to keep things even more secure.

Kidsnatchers

Big Crowds are also a safe haven for kid snatchers. Keep your hands on your children and try coming

early to avoid the biggest crowds. Don't let young children go into the bathroom or anywhere else

alone. Review safety procedures with our kids ahead of time. Teach them to scream and never to

cooperate.

Stay On Camera

Stadiums are full of security and video surveillance. One of the best things you can do is stay on camera.

Avoid passages, elevators, stairways, and other places where they may not be any video surveillance.

The bathrooms are also points of vulnerability. Go into bathrooms right off the main concourse so you

will not be alone in there.

Keep That Phone Fully Charged

Your phone is one of your best personal security devices. Often sporting events are held in the evening

when your phone has already exhausted its battery life. On the game day go to extra effort to charge

the phone during the day so you can have a full charge at the game. This will also help you capture some

awesome pics! I have one of those small portable charging devices that I take with me to these types of

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events. Many of those devices also come with an onboard flashlight. (EXAMPLE ) I love anytime I can get

two-in-one devices.

Major Emergency?

If there is a true emergency at the game such as a bomb threat, terrorist attack, or other unpredictable

event you have good, better, best options. GOOD: Blend in and keep your head down. You don't want to

be singled out or considered a threat. BETTER: Find a quiet place to hide. Get out of the core public

areas and find a corner, room, or store where you can avoid detection. BEST: Force your way into

employee only areas and look for a non-traditional exits that will be less congested. Get Out.

A Word About Security Personnel

Sports stadiums generally don't allow weapons because they provide on-site security in a controlled

environment. Security Personnel are your friends under normal circumstances. Keep them close. In a

major emergency as described above they become risks. Avoid getting to close to them. Blend in and

avoid security personnel.

Also consider that stadiums have security check points. They will likely check any bags and some of them

will also ask you to empty pockets. Be prepared for this security check and don't portray any strange or

suspicious behavior at the security checkpoint.

Security at Restaurants What might make one restaurant more vulnerable than another?

National chain restaurants are far less vulnerable to common emergencies that range from power or

water outages to high stake robberies and hostage situations. They are better prepared, have

emergency plans, and better trained management. Local non-chain restaurants tend to be more

vulnerable... of course I also think they represent the best food and experience so go figure. Fast Food

(QSR) restaurants also have a much higher rate of robberies and attempted robberies than dine-in

restaurants. In fact the rate of assaults is more than double. Time of day is also a critical element as

more than 80% of crimes at restaurants happen between the hours of 9pm and 5am.

Where in the Restaurant do I Sit?

You Want to Avoid:

-Sitting too near an outside entrance

-Sitting with a large number of people behind you

Where Possible You Want to Sit:

-With your back to a wall where you can observe others

-Near a kitchen entrance

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Minor Emergencies

Minor emergencies would include water outages, electrical outages, contamination, sewage backup,

fire, or flood. In most of these cases you as a patron need to do very little. If you become aware of any

of these problems your best course of action is to leave and dine elsewhere. In the case of a fire you

should be able to locate fire extinguishers near any kitchen entrance and at the hostess stands (where

drinks are generally prepared). If the restaurant has a bar you should find one there as well.

Major Emergencies

More robberies and assaults take place as restaurants than do at banks in this country. Last month in

Knoxville TN the robber used one of the guest patrons as a hostage in getting his money and escaping.

However, since patrons are rarely at risk in a robbery your first plan of action should be to stay put and

not be noticed. Blend into the group or crowd the best you can. In the moment you feel that there may

be real threat to you as the patron you need to take action. Escape and retreat are often your best

course of action. Restaurants ALWAYS have a back door exit from the kitchen that can't be opened from

the outside without a key. Most restaurants also have an office in the back in or close to the kitchen that

can lock and will have a reinforced door. Locking yourself inside is a great a quick exit. Most restaurants

also will have roof access. The access point is generally inside of the kitchen or within the office itself. In

the gravest extremes an escape to the room may be a strong solution.

RFID Danger and Faraday Products Today many of your credit cards have a small chip called a RFID chip inside of the card. You may or may

not be able to clearly see the chip in the card. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification and this

chip is what allows you to just tap your card up against the card machine at Starbucks instead of swiping

it. Sad thing is that thieves can very easy bump up against your wallet or purse with a custom build

inexpensive machine and also "get the broadcast" of your card number, expiration date, etc. Here is

a news special report that expands on this.

You have two ways you can protect yourself from this risk. First, you can request your bank and credit

card provider to not issue you a card with a RFID chip inside. Almost half of debit and credit cards have

them today and the number is expected to increase.

Your second option to protect yourself is to purchase a RFID blocking wallet. Often referred to

as Faraday wallets, these wallets (along with other Faraday products) block any signals from being sent

or received and thus protect your information from this type of "skimming" technique used by thieves.

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP)

You have learned about the concept of EMP from the movies. An advanced type of technology that

could be used as a weapon to disable and destroy anything with an electric circuit that is powered on.

EMP can also occur naturally through lightning for example.

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Faraday cages, bags, and boxes (also named for Michael Faraday like the wallets discussed above) are an

entrapment that will protect a laptop, cell phone, or any other electronic device from being hit or

effected by a EMP. They also would protect any cyber thieves from being able to access the device

wirelessly. These have become popular in government circles and other large corporations where data

has to be secure and protected from any sort of cyber attack.

Children In School: Safety First With fall approaching, children are going back to school and some are beginning for the first time.

Before your children begin school, it is important to talk to them about family safety procedures; and

overall safety going to and from school and while there. These procedures should then be reviewed

before the start of each school year.

Consider discussing the following with your children:

Before beginning school, be sure your children know their basic contact information including:

Parents' full names

Address

Phone number

Parents' work place and phone numbers

Another Emergency contact.

Be sure they know how to use a phone if necessary

Make sure this information is memorized, but give a written copy to your child on an object they will

take with them daily. This can be pinned into a backpack or taped to the inside of a lunchbox or pencil

box.

Teach them to safely walk to and from school. Make sure your children know the dangers of walking to

and from school.

Be sure they know how to safely cross roads. Teach them to always look both ways when crossing.

If a crossing guard is used, teach them to only cross the road when the crossing guard signals it is

safe.

Do not let them walk to school alone. Walk with your child or have another trusted adult walk

with them. Decide as a family when your child is old enough to walk with a child their age.

Tell your children not to accept rides from anyone without your approval. If someone tries to pick

up your child from school, have a family "code word" so the child knows you sent this person to

pick them up. Have the code word be something easy to remember, but hard for others to guess.

If you need someone to pick up your child, tell the trusted person the code word. Be sure your

child knows to always ask for the code word when someone tries to pick them up. This should also

be used if someone has to pick up your child in case of an emergency.

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School Bus Security

Make sure your children arrive at the bus stop early (accompanied by an adult or another child if

they are the appropriate age)

Be sure your children wait on the sidewalk for the bus, distancing themselves from the road.

Make sure the bus comes to a complete stop before your children try to board, or even approach

the bus.

Tell your children to always remain seated while riding the bus.

As with boarding, children should not get off the bus, or even stand, until the bus is at a complete

stop.

Discuss playground safety for recess and other activities. Be sure an adequate number of adults will

accompany your children at recess. Though some accidents can't be avoided, teach your child the best

ways to prevent accidents while on the playground.

Teach them not to push, shove or crowd when playing on equipment.

Before they begin school, take them to the playground so they are familiar with the equipment.

This way, you can see what equipment is appropriate for their age. Be sure you discuss this with

your children before they begin school.

Discuss school and classmates with your children. Ask your children questions. Be sure you know:

Who their friends are

What subjects they excel at and what subjects they struggle with

What extra activities they are involved in

What emotional situations they face

How to protect your children from "strangers"

Be sure your children are constantly supervised by you or someone you trust. Always know where

your child is.

Be sure you discuss with your child what a stranger is and why they can be dangerous.

If a child is lost, be sure they know who they can go to for help (uniformed officer, store or

restaurant personnel, etc). Other than designated people, teach your child the old caution of

"Don't talk to strangers."

If someone tries to take your child by force, teach them it is okay to scream out and ask for help.

The "code word" can be used in a situation like this as well.

Sources:

Safe Kids, USA http://www.usa.safekids.org

Safety Council, http://www.safety-council.org

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Talk to Your Kids About Guns In all of our firearm courses we discuss the NRA suggested rules in regards to children and firearms.

Firearm owners need to be positive role models and teach children the difference between real life,

video games, toys, and television. Children need to have their curiosity satisfied at a safe and

controllable level. Lastly children need to be educated and taught what to do when they find or are

presented with a firearm.

Specifically:

Stop

Don’t Touch

Leave the Area

Tell An Adult

The NRA has an educational program available that schools and other organizations can utilize to help

teach these and other firearm safety tips to children. The Eddie Eagle program in no way is designed to

promote firearm ownership or the NRA. It is designed simple to help children learn safety rules and

procedures. After all, half of all American households have a firearm and as a fact of life in our

communities children need to be educated in firearms the same way they are taught to Stop, Drop, and

Roll in a fire.

To learn more about the Eddie Eagle program click here.

Outdoor Survival

During the summer months many people will spend their vacations and weekends in the outdoors. On

average 2300 people are reported missing every day in the US. Many of these go missing in the

outdoors. This summer season if you find your self lost in the wilderness follow these tips to stay alive.

· The best thing you can do is to prepare properly when going into the outdoors. Let someone

know where you are going and take good supplies.

· Don't Panic - If you told someone where you were going then somebody is looking for you. As a

general rule search and rescue teams will only search for adults during daylight hours. Teams

will search for children around the clock.

· Find Shelter - Using too much energy by dragging logs to make shelter will make you sweat.

Sweating will make you cold and the number one cause of death when lost in the mountains is

hypothermia. Try to use your environment as shelter before building one. If you are in a snow

covered area, try digging a trench in the snow; and covering yourself with leaves & branches.

Both make great insulators and will keep you warm. Make your shelter in the middle of the

mountain. Avoid valleys.

· Stay Warm - Dress in layers and stuff dry leaves and branches into your clothes.

· Signal Rescuers - Your best chance of rescue is to properly signal rescuers. The best time to

signal rescuers is during the day. Find the highest point possible. You will be more visible to

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rescuers and your voice will travel farther. Build three smoky fires to signal for help. Reflective

objects are your best friend is signaling rescuers. A watch, compass, pop can, glasses, &

aluminum foil are ideal objects to create strong reflections.

· Don't Wander Far - Rescuers often find empty cars because the driver wandered off.

Finding North: Every Trick in the Book

When lost in the outdoors often the most important information may be which direction you are

traveling. Below you will find multiple methods of finding north including:

Several Shadow-Tip Methods

Watch Method

Using Stars

Using a Cell Phone

Using a Digital Camera

Using a needle or wire

Looking at Natural Elements

Shadow-Tip Method - #1A

1. Place a stick securely in the ground so that you can see its shadow. The stick does not need to be

straight or at any particular angle relative to the ground. Alternatively, you can use the shadow of

any fixed object. Nearly any object will work, but the taller the object is, the easier it will be to see

the movement of its shadow, and the narrower the tip of the object is, the more accurate the

reading will be. Make sure the shadow is cast on a level, brush-free spot.

2. Mark the tip of the shadow with a small object, such as a pebble, or a distinct scratch in the

ground. Try to make the mark as small as possible so as to pinpoint the shadow's tip, but make

sure you can identify the mark later.

3. Wait 10-15 minutes. The shadow will move mostly from west to east in an arc which depends on

your latitude, season and time of day.

4. Mark the new position of the shadow's tip with another small object or scratch. It will likely move

only a short distance.

5. Draw a straight line in the ground through the two marks. This is approximately an east-to-west

line.

6. Stand with the first mark (west) on your left, and the other (east) on your right. You are now facing

approximately toward true north. (Accuracy improves as your location approaches the equator, as

the time of year approaches either equinox and as the time of day approaches midday.)

Shadow-Tip Method - #1B

1. Find a straight, slender stick that is 1 to 2 feet in length.

2. Securely place the stick in the ground so that it will not move and pointing directly at the sun. You

should see no shadow.

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3. Wait 10-15 minutes, or until there is a shadow about 4 inches long. The shadow will be pointing

toward the east.

4. Stand with the stick on your left, with the shadow extending to your right. You are now facing

toward the north.

This method is a slight variation of Shadow-Tip Method #1A in that the point where the stick enters the

ground in this method is equivalent to the first shadow-tip mark in method #1A. Exactly as in method

#1A, accuracy improves as your location approaches the equator, as the time of year approaches either

equinox and as the time of day approaches midday.

Shadow-Tip Method - #2 (for Increased Accuracy)

Set up stick and mark first shadow-tip as above. For this method, take your first reading in the morning,

at least an hour or so before midday.

This method will allow you to find two times centered approximately on midday. The marks you make

will be on that part of the west to east shadow arc mentioned in method #1A that produces the best

accuracy.

1. Find an object or length of string, etc., exactly the same length as the shadow.

2. Continue taking measurements of the shadow's length every 10-20 minutes. The shadow will

shrink until midday, when it is at its shortest. Then it will gradually grow longer.

3. Measure the shadow length as the shadow grows. Use the stick or object you used to measure the

length of the initial shadow. When the shadow grows to exactly the same length as the stick (and

hence exactly the same length as your first measurement), mark the spot.

4. Draw a line connecting the first and second marks as above. Once again, this is your east-west line,

and if you stand with the first mark on your left and the second on your right, you will be facing in

the approximate direction of true north. (Note: for highest accuracy, your two marks need to be

made at exact intervals before and after noon where you are, which means when the sun is at its

highest point in the sky. Deviations from this will lead to some small inaccuracy.)

Watch Method: Northern Hemisphere

1. Find an analog watch (the kind with hour and minute hands) that is set accurately. Place it on a

level surface, such as the ground, or hold it horizontal in your hand.

2. Point the hour hand at the sun. You can use a stick to cast a shadow to aid in your alignment if you

wish, but it is not necessary.

3. Bisect (that is, find the center point of) the angle between the hour hand and the twelve o'clock

mark (the number 12 on the watch). The center of the angle between the hour hand and twelve

o'clock mark is the north-south line. If you don't know which way is north and which south, just

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remember that no matter where you are, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. In the

northern hemisphere the sun is due south at midday. If your watch is set to daylight saving time

bisect the angle between the hour hand and the one o'clock mark instead.

4. If you have a 24h dial on your clock (like many pilot watches), then just point the hour hand at the

sun, and north is at the 0/24h mark.

5. In the night, you can use the shape of the moon to estimate where the sun is, and use the same

method. If there is full moon, the sun is in the opposite direction. The guestimate of the sun

position influences the precision.

Watch Method: Southern Hemisphere

1. Use an analog watch as above, and point the watches twelve o'clock mark (the number 12) toward

the sun. If your watch is set to daylight savings time, point the one o'clock mark toward the sun.

2. Bisect the angle between the twelve o'clock mark (or one o'clock mark if using daylight saving

time) and the hour hand to find the north-south line. If you're unsure which way is north,

remember that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west no matter where you are. In the

southern hemisphere, however, the sun is due north at midday.

Using the Stars: Northern Hemisphere

1. Locate the North Star (Polaris) in the night sky. The North Star is the last star in the handle of the

Little Dipper constellation. If you have trouble finding it, find the Big Dipper. The two lowest stars

in the Big Dipper (the outermost stars of the cup of the dipper) from a straight line that "points" to

the North Star (if you imagine the distance between the two lowest stars as being x, the north star

will be a distance of 4x away in the direction that the two lowest stars point). You may also find the

constellation Cassiopeia, which is always opposite the Big Dipper. The North Star is located about

midway between the central star of Cassiopeia and the Big Dipper (see figure).

2. Draw an imaginary line straight down from the North Star to the ground. This direction is true

north, and if you can find a landmark in the distance at this point, you can use it to guide yourself.

Using the Stars: Southern Hemisphere

1. Find the Southern Cross constellation. In the southern hemisphere, the North Star is not visible,

and no single star always indicates north or south, but you can use the Southern Cross as your

guide. This constellation is formed by five stars, and the four brightest stars form a cross that is

angled to one side.

2. Identify the two stars that make up the long axis of the cross. These stars form a line which

"points" to an imaginary point in the sky which is above the South Pole. Follow the imaginary line

down from the two stars five times the distance between them.

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3. Draw an imaginary line from this point to the ground, and try to identify a corresponding landmark

to steer by. Since this is true south, true north is directly opposite it (behind you as you are looking

at the point).

4. Another method using the Southern Cross is to also find the Pointers. This is a pair of two stars

that point toward the southern cross in a fairly straight line.

5. As above, find the two stars that make up the long axis of the Southern Cross. As well, look at the

Pointers, imagine a line between them. Find the point in the middle of this line, and draw an

imaginary line from that point at a right angle to the line.

6. Where the line from the Southern Cross and the Pointers meet is true south, so again true north is

directly opposite.

Using the stars version 2

1. Find two nice straight sticks. Make sure that one stick is longer than the other by about 5 or 6

inches, or the length from the tip of your middle finger to where your palm meets your wrist.

2. Locate an area where you have a clear view of the stars and insert the longest stick into the ground

in front of you. Make sure it is secure enough so that it will not move.

3. Now choose a star and insert the short stick so that the tips of the sticks line up with your selected

star. Again, the narrower the tips of the sticks are, the easier it will be to align them. Repeat this

process for two or more other stars which are about 45 degrees on either side of the first star. Pick

stars which will be easy to locate again when you come back in 15 to 30 minutes.

4. Now you wait several minutes, maintain your fire, find some food, whatever. After a while, return

to your sticks, make sure NOT to disturb them! Locate your selected stars. Again, view the sticks so

that their tips align, and based on which way your stars moved you can determine North.

5. Here is a key to help you determine based on where your star moved, which way is north. If the

star rises, you are facing more toward the east. If the star falls, you are facing more toward the

west. If the star moves right or left, then you are facing more toward the north and/or south (you

can't tell which). Combine your observations to decide which way is approximately north. Keep in

mind, these will not give you magnetic north like a compass, but will give you the general direction

of north.

Using a Cellphone

1. Download a compass program for your cellphone. Compass programs exist for almost all

cellphones and this method is especially useful because it's accurate and most people today carry a

cellphone with them at all times.

2. One popular compass program is Compass from http://qcontinuum.org/compass/index.htm

3. Input your latitude and longitude or the airport code for the nearest airport and make sure the

phone has the correct time, and the program will show where the sun and moon is relative to

north.

4. Simply orient the sun or moon on the display with it's real life counterpart and the compass will

show the correct directions.

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Using a Digital Camera

When the stars are visible in sky it is possible to determine the true celestial north or south by taking a

long exposure photograph of the stars, that captures the movement of the stars across the sky - This is

called a star trail photograph.

* You can use Google to find many photographs of star trails

The star trails will circle around the axis of rotation of whatever celestial body the photograph was taken

from. The axis of rotation on a planet or planetoid determines its true celestial north and south, so by

finding the center the star trail circle around, one will have found true north or south.

You will need :

1. A digital SLR camera with the ability to take long exposure shoots of at least 4 minutes in length.

2. A tripod or something sturdy to rest the camera on

3. A wide-angle lens to cover as much of the sky as possible

4. A shutter release cable or a remote control

It helps to have Mirror Lock-up enabled if possible to reduce in-camera vibration.

It is possible to take star trail photographs with film cameras too, but since you would have to wait

to get the film developed, it is extremely unpractical to use a film camera to find true north.

Usually only Digital SLR camera have the ability to take long exposures lasting over 30 seconds, so

a compact camera will most likely not work.

1. Mount the wide-angle lens on the camera and zoom it to its widest setting

2. Secure the camera on the tripod or rest it on something sturdy , pointing the camera in the

direction you estimate north or south to be in, while trying to cover as much of the sky as you can -

If possible include a little of the horizon.

3. Set the camera to take a very long exposure photograph of at least 4 minutes - The longer

exposure you use , the longer the star trails will be, making it easier to determine the center of

rotation and thereby true north or south.

4. Take the photograph - To be usable the camera must remain perfectly still throughout the

exposure, so it is highly recommended to use a shutter release cable or a remote control to take

the photograph.

The disadvantages of this technique are that it requires a clear sky, somewhat expensive

photographic gear and time to setup the camera and take the long exposure shoot.

The advantages are that it is always perfectly accurate, it works on any celestial body (so even

astronauts can use it), and it produces very stunning and beautiful photographs

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Needle Method

If a needle and a silk cloth are available, you can stroke the needle repeatedly towards the same

direction to make it magnetized. If a magnet is available, then that is even better. The magnetized

needle can then be suspended on a line to freely align itself to the North-South line. It can also be placed

directly on water, on paper or a leaf that in turn is placed on water.

Natural Elements

· Plants tend to grow where the sun is, so abundant vegetation will grow more towards the

direction of the equator (so, North for those located in the Southern Hemisphere). Moss on the

other hand will grow on the side of a tree facing North, because the wind is more humid on

that side. Moss will be greener on the North side and will be yellowish or brownish towards the

South side.

· Tree stumps on fallen trees can also tell where North is. More growth will happen towards the

equator. So the tree rings will be more widely spread on the side facing the equator compared

to the side facing the other way.

· In the Northern hemisphere the North side of hills or mountains are likely to have heavier snow

fall because they receive less sun. The opposite is true in the Southern hemisphere.

Forest Fires

During the summer, the threat of forest fires is higher than any other time of the year. Compared to

other seasons; vegetation is high and precipitation is low. Forest fires are caused by many things;

including campfires.

Before starting a campfire:

Know your area - Be familiar with the area where you are camping. Make sure to plan an escape

route should you need to evacuate the area.

Know the area fire restrictions - Call the local Fire Department, Forest Service, BLM, State or other

Federal Agency to make sure the area you are camping in an area free of fire-restrictions.

Select your campsite wisely - Always use existing campsites and established fire rings when

camping or building a fire.

When lighting the fire and while it is lit:

Keep campfires away from trees and bushes - Only build campfires in designated fire rings; and

make sure those rings are a reasonable distance from trees and bushes. Clear any loose vegetation

near the ring.

Keep water or a fire extinguisher close by

Never leave the fire unattended

Notify proper authorities immediately if the fire spreads from the fire pit - When arriving at the

campsite ask the ranger on duty how a ranger may be contacted should an emergency arise.

When finished with the campfire:

Drown the fire with water

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Ensure the fire is completely out before leaving - Do not leave the fire until it is completely out;

even if you will still be at the campsite. Do not go to bed with the fire still burning.

Paracord

Parachute cord, often referred to as Paracord, was first used widely in the first World War in parachutes.

Military personell quickly found many other uses for the newly developed strong and versatile rope.

Paracord is made of several smaller cords inside of a nylon sheath.

Today Paracord is becoming popular for civilian use as a survival tool to have available to do anything

from creating shelters to fishing line. Due to its utility, many companies are making a business of

designing bracelets and other wearables made up of woven paracord that can be easily undone for use

in a survival situation.

It has also become popular to create paracord "grenades" that consist of a kit of various survival tools

wrapped tightly inside of paracord.

You can buy paracord on a spool and use it for various projects like restringing your backpacking pack, or

using it for your shoelaces, or even designing your own belt or bracelets. What clever use can you think

of for Paracord?

Hiking & Camping

Hiking and camping provide exercise and interest for people of any age. Just getting out and walking

around is a wonderful way to see nature. Since unexpected things happen, however, the best way to

help guarantee a good time for all is to plan ahead carefully and follow commonsense safety

precautions.

If you have any medical conditions, discuss your plans with your health care provider and get

approval before departing.

Review the equipment, supplies and skills that you'll need. Consider what emergencies could arise

and how you would deal with those situations. What if you got lost, or were unexpectedly

confronted by an animal? What if someone became ill or injured? What kind of weather might you

encounter? Add to your hiking checklist (below) the supplies you would need to deal with these

situations.

Make sure you have the skills you need for your camping or hiking adventure. You may need to

know how to read a compass, erect a temporary shelter or give first aid. Practice your skills in

advance.

If your trip will be strenuous, get into good physical condition before setting out. If you plan to

climb or travel to high altitudes, make plans for proper acclimatization to the altitude.

It's safest to hike or camp with at least one companion. If you'll be entering a remote area, your

group should have a minimum of four people; this way, if one is hurt, another can stay with the

victim while two go for help. If you'll be going into an area that is unfamiliar to you, take along

someone who knows the area or at least speak with those who do before you set out.

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Some areas require you to have reservations or certain permits. If an area is closed, do not go

there. Find out in advance about any regulations--there may be rules about campfires or

guidelines about wildlife.

Pack emergency signaling devices, and know ahead of time the location of the nearest telephone

or ranger station in case an emergency does occur on your trip.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person. Include such details as the make, year,

and license plate of your car, the equipment you're bringing, the weather you've anticipated and

when you plan to return.

Hiking Checklist

What to Bring: A Hiking Checklist

What you take will depend on where you are going and how long you plan to be away, but any backpack

should include the following:

Candle and matches

Cell phone

Clothing (always bring something warm, extra socks and rain gear)

Compass

First aid kit

Food (bring extra)

Flashlight

Foil (to use as a cup or signaling device)

Hat

Insect repellent

Map

Nylon filament

Pocket knife

Pocket mirror (to use as a signaling device)

Prescription glasses (an extra pair)

Prescription medications for ongoing medical conditions

Radio with batteries

Space blanket or a piece of plastic (to use for warmth or shelter)

Sunglasses

Sunscreen

Trash bag (makes an adequate poncho)

Water

Waterproof matches or matches in a waterproof tin

Water purification tablets

Whistle (to scare off animals or to use as a signaling device)

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Always allow for bad weather and for the possibility that you may be forced to spend a night outdoors

unexpectedly.

It's a good idea to assemble a separate "survival pack" for each hiker to have at all times. In a small

waterproof container, place a pocket knife, compass, whistle, space blanket, nylon filament, water

purification tablets, matches and candle. With these items, the chances of being able to survive in the

wild are greatly improved.

Lightning Safety

1. PLAN in advance your evacuation and safety measures. When you first see lightning or hear

thunder, activate your emergency plan. Now is the time to go to a building or a vehicle.

Lightning often precedes rain, so don't wait for the rain to begin before suspending activities.

2. IF OUTDOORS...Avoid water. Avoid the high ground. Avoid open spaces. Avoid all metal objects

including electric wires, fences, machinery, motors, power tools, etc. Unsafe places include

underneath canopies, small picnic or rain shelters, or near trees. Where possible, find shelter in

a substantial building or in a fully enclosed metal vehicle such as a car, truck or a van with the

windows completely shut. If lightning is striking nearby when you are outside, you should:

A. Crouch down. Put feet together. Place hands over ears to minimize hearing damage

from thunder.

B. Avoid proximity (minimum of 15 ft.) to other people.

3. IF INDOORS... Avoid water. Stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone. Take

off head sets. Turn off, unplug, and stay away from appliances, computers, power tools, & TV

sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric and phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.

4. SUSPEND ACTIVITIES for 30 minutes after the last observed lightning or thunder.

5. INJURED PERSONS do not carry an electrical charge and can be handled safely. Apply First Aid

procedures to a lightning victim if you are qualified to do so. Call 911 or send for help

immediately.

6. KNOW YOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS.

Teach this safety slogan: "If you can see it, flee it; if you can hear it, clear it."

On The Water/Boat Safety

Boating Safety Tips

· Check the Weather: Always check local weather conditions for boating safety before departure-

TV and radio forecasts can be a good source of information. If you notice darkening clouds,

volatile and rough changing winds, or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off

the water.

· Follow a Pre-Departure Checklist: First create your pre-departure checklist. Be sure to include

checks for fuel, life-jackets, emergency pack, working radio equipment, functioning lights, tools,

fire extinguisher, etc. Click here for an example checklist online.

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· Have your Boat Checked: The US Coast Guard offers a no cost check on your boat. Follow this

link to find the participants near you.

· Designate an Assistant Skipper: Make sure that you are not the only person on board familiar

with operating and conducting the boat. In an emergency you may be unable to operate your

boat and somebody else will have to do so.

· Let Someone Know Where You Are Going: Either your family or the local marina can be left a

float plan of where you are going and how long you intend to be gone. Make sure to include

your name, address & phone number. It is also important to include the boat type and

registration information. If possible list all the passengers and what types of communication

and signal equipment are onboard.

· Proper Use of Lifejackets: Did you know that the majority of drowning victims as the result of

boating accidents were found not to be wearing a Lifejacket? Make sure that your family and

friends aren't part of this statistic by assigning and fitting each member of your onboard team

with a Lifejacket-prior to departure. Click here to learn more.

· Learn to Swim: If you are going to be in the water it is important to know how to swim. Local

organizations such as the American Red Cross and others offer training for all ages and abilities-

check to see what classes are offered in your area!

· Take a Boating Course: Beginning boaters and experienced experts alike need be familiar with

boating safety rules of operation. Boater education requirements vary by state- some require

validated completion of at least one boating safety course. Regardless of your individual state's

requirements, it's always important to be educated, aware and prepared for every

circumstance that might arise

· Life Raft: Any craft that sales in open water (more than 14 feet) is required to have a life raft.

Make sure yours does. Smaller boats may only have life vests and so they should stay within

swimming distance of the shore

· Always carry a to go bag on the boat that contains: Warm dry clothes, a hat, food (dried &

canned), handheld VHF radio, GPS unit, drinking water in portable jugs, compass, flashlight,

flares, handheld water maker.

Adrift on the Water? Surviving afloat.

Stay on aboard your boat as long as possible. The rule of thumb is that you should be up

to your waist in water before you abandon your boat and get into a raft.

Most boats have at least one Emergency Position Radio Beacon (EPiRB). These devices

transmit global distress signals and come in to forms. 406 MHz and 125 MHz. Both send

your boats position and identification but the 406 goes out to other ships, passing

airplanes, and satellites. The 125 only transmits to ships and planes.

Take whatever supplies you can with you into the raft. The most important thing you

can take is drinking water. If you have jugs of water just toss them overboard. They will

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float in the water. A person can survive several days without food on the water but

without clean water death is almost certain.

Many canned foods are packed in water. If any of those are available be sure to take

them with you. Try not to ration water. 1/2 gallon per person per day should be

sufficient.

Use any object with a reflective surface to signal for help. A watch, glasses, aluminum

can, compass, or aluminum foil work great. Most life rafts also have a VHF radio or flares

in their survival kits.

If you are in a cold water/weather environment, get warm. You are more likely to die of

exposure or hypothermia than anything else. Put on dry clothes if you have them. Avoid

prolonged exposure to salt water. It can cause damage in the forms of lesions which are

prone to infection.

Stay covered. Most life rafts have canopies which can protect you from the sun, wind,

and rain. If you are without a canopy try wearing a hat and long sleeve shirts.

Life rafts include fishing hooks and line in their survival kits. After a week or more

seaweed will gather under your raft and fish will be attracted by the shade. Eat the flesh

raw. If no hook is available try to make one out of shards to metal from an aluminum

can.

Don't exhaust yourself paddling to land. Unless you know you are close most rafts are

un-maneuverable, especially in wind above three knots.

Travel

Air Travel In recent years, regulations on air-travel in the United States have changed dramatically. Though these

regulations have made air-travel safer, it is still important for travelers to take certain safety

precautions. Consider the following when traveling by air.

Be to the airport 2 hours in advance. Especially if checking luggage, be to the airport in

advance to ensure there is enough time to check-in.

Leave flight information with someone not traveling with you. Be sure someone knows

your flight information (all flight numbers, airports and travel times).

Check federal regulations. Before packing, check current FAA regulations as to what

materials can be packed and carried on.

Pack extra in carry-on. If catching a connecting flight, pack extras in your carry-on in case

you are stuck between flights. Have a change of clothes and extra money.

Keep bags with you. Keep carry-ons, purses and other bags to be carried-on, with you at

all times. Do not ask someone to watch them briefly while you go to the bathroom. Take

them with you wherever you go. Do not watch anyone else's bags for them.

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Inform the airline in advance of any special circumstances (disabilities, etc).

Do not over-pack overhead bins. Be sure not to pack the overhead bins beyond capacity.

Ensure they are able to securely latch closed.

Pay attention to the pre-flight briefing. Emergency procedures may differ by airline or by

plane. Be sure to know emergency procedures for each specific flight. Always take

notice of the closest emergency exit.

Keep the seat-belt fastened while seated. Even if the flight seems smooth and routine,

keep the seat-belt fastened. Conditions may change quickly and cause unexpected

turbulence.

Pay attention to the flight attendants. Follow all directions given by flight attendants.

Ask for clarification if you have any questions.

Hotel Safety Precautions Summertime vacations usually include a stay in a hotel. When selecting a hotel, it's important to be sure

it is a safe place to stay. It is also important to take extra precautions during your stay.

Please consider the following when making hotel reservations:

Select a hotel with electronic locks. These locks are generally changed with every stay so it's

unlikely there is a duplicate key to the room.

Make sure the hotel has a deadbolt and peep hole on the door.

Check guest rooms and the lobby for smoke detectors and fire sprinklers.

Select a hotel with limited outside entrance.

Ensure hotel personnel are trained in guest security.

Be sure the hotel is not located in an area with a high crime rate. Check city statistics before

making a reservation.

Please consider the following when choosing a hotel room:

Select a room between the 4th and 6th room of the hotel. These rooms are high enough to

protect you from intruders, but low enough to be reached by an emergency fire ladder.

Try to avoid staying on the ground floor. If you must, try to reserve a room with the window facing

the courtyard, rather than the parking lot.

Though rooms located next to the elevators tend to be noisier, they are the safest. Consider that

rooms located near vending machines are also noisy.

Please do the following when arriving at the hotel:

Keep an eye on all luggage and personal belongings when checking in, especially if the hotel lobby

is crowded.

Ask the front desk not to give out your name or room number to anyone.

When checking in, take a few business cards with the hotel address. Keep these at hand during

your stay in case you get lost or need to take a cab.

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If using a credit card to check in, do not leave it on the counter. Put it back in your purse or wallet

as soon as it is handed back to you. Be sure the correct credit card was handed back to you.

When arriving in your room, make sure the room is clean and secure. Check all closets and the

bathroom for possible intruders.

Place a flashlight next to your bed. This is an unfamiliar place and walking around at night could be

dangerous.

Please use the following tips when leaving the hotel room for the day:

Leave the television on during the day so it seems as if someone is inside.

Ask the maid to make up the room during breakfast and then place a "do not disturb" sign outside

the door before you leave for the day.

If you are gone at night, leave a light on.

Keep your room key safe and hidden while you are out.

In the Car

Emergecy Hammers According to the US Center for Disease Control, an estimated 1.2 million people are killed in motor

vehicle accidents each year worldwide, and as many as 50 million more sustain significant injuries.

Within 20 years, these figures are estimated to increase 65%. Road traffic injuries are the leading cause

of injury-related deaths worldwide.

Chances are; you will be involved in at least one motor vehicle accident in your lifetime. Those seconds

after an accident are often the most important in determining your survival. A driver may become

trapped in a vehicle if the vehicle crashes into the water; the doors are jammed; the seat-belt becomes

twisted or stuck; or the power windows malfunction or locks jam due to an accident. In this situation the

features designed to protect your life may actually endanger it.

Emergency hammers save an increasing number of lives each year by providing an escape when trapped

in a vehicle. The razor-sharp blade can easily cut through a seat belt to release a passenger. The steel

points quickly break glass when the window is your only escape.

If a vehicle is trapped underwater, the doors cannot be opened or the windows rolled down (electric or

not) until the pressure inside the car is equal to the pressure around the car. This means the car must be

completely submerged and the interior filled with water before these features can be used. This can

take minutes. An emergency hammer can break the glass immediately, providing a quick exit.

Many emergency hammers are also equipped with a flashlight to make navigation easier.

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Emergency hammers are affordable and can be found through numerous online retailers. Each vehicle in

your household should be equipped with an emergency hammer. It may mean the difference between

surviving and not.

How to Tail A Thief! 1. The first thing you need to do before trying to tail someone, is to alter your appearance. You can

remove or add a jacket, remove layered shirts, add/remove sunglasses and a hat.

2. Never make eye contact with the subject. This may be difficult. Chances are, they will be looking

for you and will more easily identify you if you make eye contact. This takes practice.

3. Make a mental note of your subject's identifying characteristics. If you can remember specifics

such as height, weight, hair color, etc; you will be more likely to pick them out in a crowd or pass

on a description to authorities later. Try not to pay too much attention to clothing since that can

easily be altered.

4. Keep a following distance of at least 40 feet. If you can effectively follow from across the street,

that is preferred.

5. If your subject goes into a store or home; don't follow. Not only could this be dangerous, but it is

sure to give up your advantage. Wait outside and take this opportunity to change your appearance

again if possible. If they don't come out quickly, check for a back exit.

6. Once you have determined your subject is at their destination, call the authorities.

Note: Pickpockets often follow a pattern of passing the stolen goods from one person to another to

throw you off. If you suspect this may have happened, stay on the initial subject. Even if they don't have

your property anymore, they may lead you to the people who do. It is better to have a solid lead to give

to the authorities than to be lost on the trail.

How to Lose Someone Who is Tailing You

If you are in a vehicle:

1. Determine if you are actually being tailed. Make three or four turns in the same direction. It is very

unlikely that anyone would logically make four concurrent turns in the same direction. Try

signaling to turn one direction and then turn the other direction. If they follow in both of these

circumstances, you have a tail.

2. Make note of the vehicle's description. Write down the license plate number, vehicle make/model

and number of passengers. If possible, note their physical descriptions as well.

3. Get onto a highway or drive to the most active area possible: downtown, mall parking lot, zoo, or

airport. You are more likely to shake your tail in an area with lots of people and they are less likely

to try anything with people and authorities near.

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4. Don't drive any faster than the speed limit. Soon another car (not the pursuer) is bound to try and

pass you. When they do speed up and force the new car in between you and your pursuer.

5. Slow down at a busy intersection with a traffic light. Try to time your approach so as to arrive at

the yellow light. Accelerate through the intersection without leaving enough time for your tail to

follow.

6. If possible, park at a crowded parking lot and get out of the car. Make as much noise as possible if

your pursuer closens.

7. If all else fails. call 911 and begin driving toward the police station.

If you are on foot:

1. Make random turns which will effectively turn you around and take you back in the direction from

which you came. This will allow you to make sure you are really being tailed.

2. Note as many physical characteristics of your subject as possible. If possible, call someone from

your cell phone or a phone booth and give them the description of your tail. Ask them to come

pick you up and to document the pursuer's physical description in case something happens to you.

3. Keep an eye on your pursuer but do not look behind you. Try to use mirror-like surfaces such as

windows, or a makeup case.

4. Stay in crowds. Do not head home, to work, or to any other final destination until you are sure you

aren't being followed. Criminals often try to establish your patterns several days before actually

making an attack.

5. If the distance between you and your follower begins to shorten, enter a store and find help.

6. Enter the front of a store, shop, or restaurant and exit through the back.

7. Buy a ticket for a movie and leave through the theater exit.

8. Use public transportation. Exit the bus or train just as the doors are closing, preventing anyone else

to exit with you.

9. If all else fails, call 911 from your cell or from a public place. Most hotels, airports and office

buildings have their own security on staff that could deter your pursuer.

Avoid Being Carjacked Each year, appx. 87,000 carjackings occur in the U.S.

To avoid this mishap please review the following…

1. Keep your car tuned up and full of gas (E-does not stand for E-nough to get me where I need to go)

and check your tires before you take a trip. A stranded, helpless driver makes an easy target.

2. Lock your doors when you get into your car. Make it part of your driving ritual.

3. Travel the most direct route to your destination. Search Mapquest, Google Maps, Yahoo Maps or

TripTik before you depart on your trip, even if it's just across town. Asking for directions can tip off

a would-be carjacker that you are lost and/or not paying attention to your surroundings.

4. Don't tail-gate. This enables you to get around the car in front of you if it stalls or if someone

suspicious approaches your car.

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5. Stay in your car, even if someone bumps into you at a traffic light or stop sign. What you've just

encountered is the "Bump and Rob." The scheme works like this: When you get out of your car

(with the engine still running) another person in the car behind you will get in your car and both

vehicles drive away.

6. If someone does manage to get into your car and demands that you "do what I say and you won't

get hurt," do not believe them. In over 90% of abductions, the victim (if female) is either raped or

sexually assaulted. Instead, run your car into the first immobile object you can find (such as a fire

hydrant, stop sign, or, as a last resort, the car in front of you). This will draw attention to your

plight and someone will dial 911. Try not to injure yourself.

7. Get out of the vehicle as quickly as possible and run towards a well populated area.

8. Install an old fashion dimmer switch on the floorboard by your left foot and connect it so that it

switches between the fuel pump and the car alarm siren. If somebody wants the car give it to

them, if they want to take you with them simply depress the dimmer switch with your left foot

killing the car and blowing the siren (if you want to blow the horn you should run the wire to a 12

volt relay since the current draw on the horn may exceed the fuel pump that you're switching over

from..

9. Be careful in areas of poverty or enormous wealth. Car crime is most likely to occur if you seem

susceptible, which will promote criminal opportunists in run down areas, and professionals in

areas of great wealth.

Extra Tips:

Be especially careful in Los Angeles and St. Louis, the top two carjacking capitals of the

US.

If you get pulled over by a suspicious "police officer" in an unmarked car, dial 911 and

tell the operator that you are being pulled over by an unmarked car between exits X and

Y on highway b and would like to inform the officer that you would like to pull over in a

safer area such as a gas station. If the operator confirms that you are indeed being

pulled over by a police officer then pull over ASAP and make sure there is plenty of

room for the officer to avoid highway traffic.

Some cars lock the doors for you when you reach a certain speed. Make sure that

feature is enabled.

How to Hotwire a Car Hot-wiring is absolutely illegal without the owner's permission, unless the car is being repossessed (in

which case the "owner" no longer owns the car anyway). There is a huge risk of electrical shock while

hot-wiring, and it may not work in many cases. Some newer model cars have the required components

hidden so you can't reach them. Others have "kill switches," which shut down the engine so that it

cannot be started, even with the key. Older model cars, like any gas-guzzler from 2004 on down, will

work. So will some hybrid and electric cars.

Method 1:

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1. Open the Hood

2. Locate the red coil wire. Both the plug and coil wires are located at the rear(back) of almost all V-8

engines. Four-cylinder engines have them placed on the right side, near the center of the engine.

Six-cylinder engines are on the opposite: left side, near the center of the engine

3. Locate the Battery

4. Run a wire from the positive side of the battery (not negative!) to either the positive side of the

coil, or the red wire that leads to the coil. This will give power to the dashboard.

5. Locate the starter solenoid. On Fords, it is on the passenger-side fender well, near the battery. On

GMs, it is on the starter under the steering wheel.

6. If under the steering wheel, enter the car without setting off any alarms. If it has standard

transmission, make sure the car is in neutral and the parking brake is on.

7. Unlock the steering wheel by taking a flat blade screwdriver and placing it at the top center of the

steering column. Push the screwdriver between the wheel and the column, then push the locking

pin away from the wheel. Don't worry, you're allowed to be rough here. The locking pin will not

break or set off any alarms. The solenoid should be underneath.

8. You will see a small wire at the top of the solenoid and the positive battery cable below. Cross the

two different terminals that they are connected to with a screwdriver or pliers. This will crank the

engine.

Method 2

1. Enter Car

2. Determine if the steering column and gear selector can be overridden, if so equipped. Serious

damage to the shifting mechanism and/or steering column will result in forcing these theft

deterrant mechanisms in an attempt to override them.

3. Look under steering wheel. This may require taking an access cover off. These are usually held in

place with concealed clips or #2 Phillips type screws. Remove if needed.

4. See if there is a clip or wiring harness connector in which you can gain access to the wires behind

the ignition.

5. Look for the two wires that are the same, usually red and strip them and twist them together. One

of these will be the primary power supply for the ignition switch, the other will be the connection

for the vehicle's electrical circuits that are energised when the key is turn to the run position.

Connecting these will provide electricity for the ignition components, so the engine is able to run

when the starter is turned.

6. Strip about 1 inch of insulation from this pair of wires, and twist them tightly together. Wrap with

electrician's tape if available, and do not allow them to short against metal vehicle components.

7. Get the ignition wire, brown in many cars, strip it about 1/2 inch, and touch the end of the stripped

brown wire with the connected red wires.

8. Do not twist the brown wire to the reds, just touch the wires until ignition has been achieved

9. Rev the engine enough so you don't stall and have to do this process again

Tips:

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Vehicles with a computer chip in the ignition switch cannot be hot wired, the chip enables the

ECM to function, and without it, the car will not run.

You risk causing significant damage to your vehicle if you hotwire it.

Never leave the ignition wires twisted together when you finish running the engine. This can

burn up the ignition system of the vehicle, and will at least discharge the battery.

Wear insulated gloves.

Winter Driving In 2006; 38,588 traffic accidents ended in fatality. Winter driving conditions increase the chances of

being involved in an accident. During the winter months, it is important to be extra cautious when

driving. Please use the following tips when driving in winter weather.

Prepare in advance by packing your vehicle with extra coats, blankets, gloves and hats in

case you become stranded.

Brush all ice and snow off your car before driving.

Give yourself extra time to get where you are going.

Drive slowly and allow extra time to stop. Allow at least three times as much space

between you and the car in front of you.

Always have your headlights on.

Use low gears to maintain better traction.

Do not use cruise control.

Be aware that bridges and overpasses tend to be icier than other roads.

If your rear wheels skid, take your foot off the accelerator and turn your wheel in the

direction your rear wheels are skidding. This will be the direction you want the front

wheels to go. If you have standard breaks, pump them gently. If you have anti-lock

breaks, apply steady pressure. It is normal to feel the breaks pulse.

If your front wheels skid, take your foot off the accelerator and shift your car to neutral.

Do not immediately steer. As the vehicle skids, traction will return. When it does, steer

in the direction you want to go. Shift the car back into drive and gently press the

accelerator.

If you get stuck, do not press down completely on the accelerator. This will cause your

wheels to spin and make it harder to get out. Turn your wheels from side to side to try

to push the snow out of the way. Lightly press on the gas to ease your way out. If this

doesn't work, try digging yourself out with a shovel. It is important to keep a small

shovel in your car during the winter months.

Even when taking precautions, accidents still occur. If you are in an accident, follow the procedures

below.

Stop. If possible, pull vehicles off the road, away from traffic.

Turn on your hazard lights.

Check if there are any injured people in the vehicle.

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Call 911 to report the accident, even if the accident is minor.

Write down all information about the car accident (names of all involved, where it took

place, what happened, etc). Be sure to exchange insurance information with the other

driver.

Report the accident to your insurance company.

Contact a physician if you have any health concerns.

Firearms: Safety & Personal Protection Firearms are the deadliest of weapons. Second amendment rights allow for all qualifying US citizens to

own and bear firearms. The key to firearms safety and personal protection is EDUCATION, EDUCATION,

EDUCATION.

Courses Available in Your Area:

NRA Courses:

The NRA has a series of basic and advanced courses available to citizens in any state. The NRA licenses

local instructors via a conclusive training course. To search for a class near you visit

http://www.nrainstructors.org/searchcourse.aspx Your NRA instructor will be able to advise you on

which courses will best fit your needs.

State Concealed Weapons Course:

Each state regulates their own specific concealed firearm laws. Every state but one currently offers

concealed weapon training and licensing to qualifying citizens. Concealed weapon permits (CWP or CCW

for short) allow citizens to carry firearms concealed on their person into public places. Restrictions vary

by state. Regardless of your intention to own or carry a firearm you should seek as much education as

possible about local firearm law and handgun handling techniques. Some things you can expect to learn

at the required concealed carry course:

Basic Mechanical Parts

Gun Safety Rules & Overview

Firing Stance & Malfunction Clearing

Unloading & Cleaning Overview

Review of different calibers of handguns

State legal review

o Justifiable Force

o State Reciprocity

o Places off limits

Live Range Fire Course

For additional information about your State’s Laws or Requirements visit:

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http://www.handgunlaw.us

NRA Training Programs

The NRA is the largest provider of firearm training in the country. The NRA certifies instructors

everywhere to teach carefully crafted courses with course books and defined curriculum. Check the NRA

website or the USA Firearm Training directory for NRA courses near you.

Private Instruction:

There are a variety of private instructors across the nation that will offer additional personal training.

The more training and education you can obtain the better it will serve you. Check at a local shooting

range to inquire about private instruction. You can also visit the websites for the largest and most

reputable private firearm training facilities in the USA.

USA Firearm Training Directory

Thunder Ranch

Front Sight Firearms Training Institute

Care & Storage of Ammunition Always keep ammunition in factory box or container that can be properly labeled.

Store ammunition in a cool dry place free from extreme temperature variation.

Store ammunition separately from guns and not accessible from unauthorized persons, especially

children.

Keep ammunition from acids, salts, and other chemicals that can cause corrosion.

Never submerge in water or expose to any solvents, petroleum products, bore cleaner, ammonia

or other chemicals. These chemicals can penetrate the cartridge and cause the primer or the

powder to deteriorate.

Rotate defensive ammunition stored for long periods of time in your handgun. Always fire the

oldest ammunition first.

Gun Safety Rules 1. ALWAYS TREAT ALL FIREARMS AS IF THEY ARE LOADED.

2. ALWAYS KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER UNTIL READY TO FIRE.

3. ALWAYS KEEP THE GUN POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.

4. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET, & TARGET ENVIRONMENT.

Perform Firearm Safety Check

Know your firearm

Use only the correct ammunition

Wear eye & ear protection as appropriate

Never use alcohol or drugs when armed

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Store all firearms so they are inaccessible to unauthorized persons

Never handle a firearm in an emotional state

The firearm should never be displayed unless you intend to use it.

Air Travel with Firearms

You may only transport firearms, ammunition and firearm parts in your checked baggage. Firearms,

ammunition and firearm parts are prohibited from carry-on baggage.

There are certain limited exceptions for law enforcement officers who may fly armed by meeting the

requirements of Title 49 CFR § 1544.219. Law enforcement officers should read our policies on traveling

with guns.

The key regulatory requirements to transporting firearms, firearm parts or ammunition in checked

baggage are:

You must declare all firearms to the airline during the ticket counter check-in process.

The firearm must be unloaded.

The firearm must be in a hard-sided container.

The container must be locked. A locked container is defined as one that completely secures the

firearm from access by anyone other than you. Cases that can be pulled open with little effort do

not meet this criterion. The pictures provided here illustrate the difference between a properly

packaged and an improperly packaged firearm.

We recommend that you provide the key or combination to the security officer if he or she needs

to open the container. You should remain in the area designated by the aircraft operator or TSA

representative to take the key back after the container is cleared for transportation. If you are not

present and the security officer must open the container, we or the airline will make a reasonable

attempt to contact you. If we can't contact you, the container will not be placed on the plane.

Federal regulations prohibit unlocked gun cases (or cases with broken locks) on aircraft.

You must securely pack any ammunition in fiber (such as cardboard), wood or metal boxes or

other packaging that is specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition.

You can't use firearm magazines/clips for packing ammunition unless they completely and

securely enclose the ammunition (e.g., by securely covering the exposed portions of the magazine

or by securely placing the magazine in a pouch, holder, holster or lanyard).

You may carry the ammunition in the same hard-sided case as the firearm, as long as you pack it

as described above.

You can't bring black powder or percussion caps used with black-powder type firearms in either

your carry-on or checked baggage.

We and other authorities strictly enforce these regulations. Violations can result in criminal

prosecution and civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.

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Airlines may have their own additional requirements on the carriage of firearms and the amount

of ammunition that you may have in your checked baggage. Therefore, travelers should also

contact the airline regarding its firearm and ammunition carriage policies.

Also, please note that many other countries have different laws that address transportation and

possession of firearms. If you are traveling internationally, please check with the authorities at your

destination about their requirements.

SOURCE: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1666.shtm

Air Rifle Security and Emergency Tool Air rifles play their part in a true family survival plan and this is particularly true in an emergency type of

situation in which one were to lose power or be part of other serious conditions. Here are some

advantages to consider:

Air rifle ammunition is easy to find and very affordable compared to traditional firearm

ammunition

While not adapt at hunting big game, in many "bug out" type of situations you may prefer small

game. It doesn't spoil as quickly and may be easier to find in both urban and rural areas. Air

rifles can be very effective at hunting small game like rabbits or squirrels

Air rifles are light and very easy to strap to a pack or bag without adding any weight. The

ammunition is also relatively easier to pack and haul

The lack of gun powder also makes the ammunition and weapon safer under various harsh

weather conditions

The weapon is quieter and less likely to give up your position or scare away other nearby

animals

An air rifle may not replace other larger caliber weapons but it would be a great supplement in any

emergency situation. Avoid any old air rifle from the store with 300 FPS. I would recommend a minimum

of 800 FPS. I also favor multi-pump air rifles that give you the ability to determine, by the number of

pumps, how much power you want.

An air rifle is an affordable and effective tool for many emergencies. It also makes for a great training

tool for children who have reached an age where an appropriate level of hands on experience and

training is important to teach proper weapon handling and safety.

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First Aid & Medical A basic knowledge of first-aid is important for everyone. It may be necessary at any time; even in your

own home. Along with the information below, we recommend contacting The American Red Cross for

First-Aid class information. We also recommend keeping the following information in your 72 hour kit.

Put Ice In Your Cell Phone To its owner, the cell phone is an indispensable lifeline at times of crisis. But for members of the

emergency services making life-and-death decisions, the cell poses a conundrum: Which of the numbers

stored in its electronic address book should they call to reach a casualty's next of kin?

A paramedic in Britain has started a simple initiative that has gained popularity in the US. Cell phone

users are being urged to put the acronym ICE in their cell phone. ICE which stands for "in case of

emergency," allows rescuers, law enforcement, and EMTs to know who to contact in case of emergency

situations.

Here at JES we urge you to create the phone book entry ICE with the number of your next of kin who

you would like to be contacted in case of an emergency. This will continue the effort of making a

comfortable and safe society possible.

Heimlich Maneuver Ask the victim to cough, speak or breathe. If they cannot, stand behind the victim to

begin the Heimlich Maneuver.

Locate the bottom of the victim's ribs. Move the bottom of your hand to the middle of

the stomach. Form that hand into a fist and cover it with the other.

Push into the stomach with an upward thrusting motion until the object is dislodged.

Control Bleeding If the bleeding is severe, call 9-1-1

Place a clean cloth on the victim's wound and apply heavy pressure with your hand. Do

not remove the cloth when the bleeding stops as this may re-open the wound.

If possible, lift the wound above the victim's heart.

If the bleeding does not stop, apply pressure to the nearest pressure point (the inside of

the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow, or in the groin area where the leg joins

the body).

Physical Shock Shock can occur when a victim experiences any injury. Signs of shock include: pale, cold skin; vomiting;

dull eyes; and an unquenchable thirst. Shock requires medical attention, but you can prevent it from

getting worse. Call 9-1-1 before doing anything else.

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If the injury allows, elevate the legs approximately 12 inches.

Help the victim maintain an open airway.

Control any bleeding

Cover the victim with a blanket to help them keep warm.

Do not give the victim water as this may cause vomiting.

If the victim is bleeding from the mouth, lay them on their side.

R.I.C.E. Method RICE is a helpful acronym to remember the steps you

should take to deal with sprains and pulled muscles.

These leg injuries are common place and if dealt with

quickly and correctly you can minimize the long term

effects and speed up recovery.

REST: Immediately remove pressure and weight from

the wounded area and allow it to rest. Lie down or sit

down. Some crutches could also be helpful if you

don't have someone to bring you everything you

need. Stay off the leg!

ICE: Putting ice on the injury can both reduce the pain

and reduce the swelling leading to a faster recovery.

Apply cold for 15 to 30 minutes every hour until pain

starts to diminish or as you notice the swelling stop. Some frozen veggies of course work but it would be

advisable to keep some instant cold packs around.

COMPRESS: Wrap the injury in an elastic bandage. Don't wrap it so tight as to diminish or cut off

circulation. Keep it wrapped until swelling goes down.

ELEVATE: Use a stool, pillows, or whatever you can to elevate the injury above your heart and the rest of

your body. This allows blood and other fluids to run down and prevent excessive swelling.

First Aid Kit It is important to always have a first aid kit on hand. Keep one in your home, vehicle and workplace. Be

sure the following are included in your first aid kit.

Adhesive bandages in various sizes

Rolled gauze and sterile pads

First aid tape

Pain reliever

First aid cream

Sterile cloths

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Tweezers

Thermometer

CPR Though you hope you may never have to use it, training in CPR may help you save a life. Below are basic

instructions to perform adult, child and infant CPR. Along with the information below, JES recommends

taking a CPR course.

Adult CPR

This is to be used if a person stops breathing and their heart stops breathing.

If the victim is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 before doing anything else

With two hands, tilt the victim's head back and check for breathing by placing your

cheek close to their nose and mouth. If they are not breathing, form a seal around their

mouth with yours. Breathe into the victim's mouth until their chest rises. Give two

breaths, each taking about one second each.

If the victim does not respond to the breaths alone, begin chest compressions. Linking

one hand atop the other, press down with the palm of one hand on the middle of the

chest. Compress down 1 ½ to 2 inches. Do this 30 times at a rate of approximately 100

compressions per minute.

Continue giving two breaths to 30 compressions until the victim responds, or help

arrives.

Child CPR

Follow the same procedure for adult CPR, but during compressions, press down

approximately 1/3 the depth of the chest.

Infant CPR

Shout and gently tap the infant on the shoulder. Check for breaths and a heartbeat. If

neither are present, call 9-1-1.

Gently tilt the head to open the airway. Do not tilt the head back as far as for adult or

child CPR. Cover the infant's nose and mouth with your mouth and gently give two

breaths (one second each), watching for the chest to rise and fall.

Using three fingers of one hand, begin chest compressions at the same rate and in the

same position as for adult and child CPR. Give 30 compressions.

Continue giving two breaths to 30 compressions until the victim responds, or help

arrives.

Surviving The Heat Heat illness includes a range of disorders that result when your body is exposed to more heat than it can

handle. The human body is constantly engaged in a life-and-death struggle to disperse the heat that it

produces. If allowed to accumulate, the heat would quickly increase your body temperature beyond its

comfortable 98.6° F.

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Who is at risk?

Heat-related illness can affect anyone not used to hot weather, especially when it's combined with high

humidity.

Those especially at risk:

Infants, young children, elderly and pets

Individuals with heart or circulatory problems or other long-term illness

Employees working in the heat

Athletes and people who like to exercise (especially beginners)

Individuals taking certain medications that alter sweat production

Alcoholics and drug abusers

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is the most serious and life-threatening heat-related illness. In certain circumstances, your

body can build up too much heat, your temperature may rise to life-threatening levels, and you can

become delirious or lose consciousness. If you do not rid your body of excess heat fast enough, it

"cooks" the brain and other vital organs. It is often fatal, and those who do survive may have permanent

damage to their vital organs.

Symptoms of heatstroke

The victim's body feels extremely hot when touched.

Altered mental status (behavior) ranging from slight confusion and disorientation to

coma.

Conscious victims usually become irrational, agitated, or even aggressive and may have

seizures.

In severe heatstroke, the victim can go into a coma in less than one hour. The longer the

coma lasts, the lower the chance for survival.

What to do

1. Move person to a half-sitting position in the shade.

2. Call for emergency medical help immediately.

3. If humidity is below 75%, spray victim with water and vigorously fan. If humidity above 75%, apply

ice packs on neck, armpits or groin.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is characterized by heavy perspiration with normal or slightly above normal body

temperatures. It is caused by water or salt depletion or both (severe dehydration). Heat exhaustion

affects workers and athletes who do not drink enough fluids while working or exercising in hot

environments.

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Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

Severe thirst, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting and sometimes diarrhea.

The affected person often mistakenly believes he or she has the flu.

Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can evolve into heatstroke.

Other symptoms

Profuse sweating

Clammy or pale skin

Dizziness

Rapid pulse

Normal or slightly above normal body temperature

What to do

1. Sit or lie down in the shade.

2. Drink cool, lightly salted water or sports drink.

3. If persistent, gently apply wet towels and call for emergency medical help.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscular spasms that happen suddenly affecting legs or abdominal muscles.

They usually happen after physical activity in people who sweat a lot or have not had enough fluids.

Victims may be drinking water without adequate salt content.

What to do

1. Sit or lie down in the shade.

2. Drink cool, lightly salted water or sports drink.

3. Stretch affected muscles.

Ham Radio Communication

Why Ham Radio? If you have been around emergency preparedness for any period of time you have heard of Ham radio.

The biggest preppers in the business understand things about the value of Ham radio as a tool in any

disaster. It is time to unravel the mystery of Ham Radio.

Why The Alternatives Won't Work For You?

-Cell phones work by relaying signals to central towers. If these towers go down or don't have

immediate power cell phones in the area can't work. Because this infrastructure is on the grid it is also

vulnerable to hackers and satellite disruption.

-CB Radios are well known and understood but have very limited power (5 watts input and about 4

watts out). This means that the potential broadcasting distance is between 1 and 10 miles depending on

the terrain and interference.

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So What Makes Ham Radio So Awesome?

Ham Radios communicate directly from one radio to the next similar to CB Radio but the potential

broadcasting distance is significantly higher both because of the increased amount of power and due to

the transmitting frequencies. Assuming your Ham radio has power (and many are battery operated) you

can easily communicate to any other Ham radio operator on the air across continents.

This is why the Military Auxilary Radio System (MARS) and the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES)

both use Ham Radio.

Ham radios can also reach the national weather system (NOAA) frequencies meaning that if you have

your Ham radio you can generally find out what is going on in the area.

So What Do You Do Next?

Operating a Ham Radio requires getting a license. Obtaining the license requires passing an exam that

WILL require some study and preparation. Below we cover the fundamentals of how to prepare and get

the license with about 7 days of study and prep.

For now you can and should buy a good portable Ham radio. No license is required to listen to and

monitor the conversation. This will not only help you prepare for the test and understand the jargon; it

will also give you a valuable tool in an emergency. I doubt that the FCC will press charges if you use the

radio without a license in a true emergency so having one handy is a good idea regardless.

The Baofeng UV5RA Ham Two Way Radio is generally considered to be the most economic and quality

portable Ham radio. You can get it for $30 on Amazon.

Getting Your Ham Radio License in 7 Days There are three different licenses available for amateur Ham Radio operators. The below plan should

work well for you to obtain either of the first two, the Technician and General license.

The Coming Test

The technician test consists of 35 questions from a pool of 426. Each question has four multiple choice

answers. Passing the test requires you to answer 26 of these questions correctly. These tests are

administered by Volunteer Examiners from the American Radio and Relay League, or the ARRL. These

tests are administered across the United States and chances are you will find one near you each month.

There is no charge for the license, but the ARRL charges $15 to cover the costs of administering the test.

Step 1:

Finding a test in your area is quite simple. Head over to this link at ARRL.org, enter your zipcode, and

pick a location and time that are convenient. Some tests require pre-registration, some do not. Pick a

test that is a week or more out and commit to it.

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Step 2: Finding the Questions

Now you’ve got some skin in the game. You’ve got a radio and you’ve picked your testing date and

locations. Now what? You must find the questions that are going to be on the test. Fortunately for us,

there is an excellent resource out there that will be the crux of your study. Hamstudy.org is where I have

directed (and helped get licensed) dozens of individuals. The method seems to work, so why not share?

The site is easy to understand and contains all of the questions you will find on the all of the licensing

tests. For this article we will focus on the Technician exam. Selecting the technician portion of the site

will yield three choices, “Study test questions”, “read test questions”, and “Practice Test”.

Step 3: Familiarizing Yourself With The Questions

For some with even a mild electronics background you might instantly recognize the answers to the

questions, for others, it might seem like gibberish. I’ve personally directed people to this site for over a

year. All who have committed to the test have passed using this site as a study guide. For some it took a

just a few hours of study, for others it took up to a week (and that was for the general). Assuming you

can dedicate an hour or two a day for a week, spend the first study period just reading through the

questions (read question option). You will quickly ascertain whether this will be easy or hard for you to

do. All of the questions are presented with the answer as well as the incorrect answers. You should be

able to read through the all of the possible questions in the first study period.

Step 4: Flash Cards

After your first study period, move on to the ‘flash card” section of the site. In this section the questions

will be presented to you covering the different subject areas of the test. You can click on the answer you

think is correct and immediately it will be graded, the correct answer shown, and if you want to read a

little about the subject of the question there is a spot on the upper right that puts the question into

context.

As you move along your progress will be shown on the right side of the page, namely the percentage of

the questions that you have seen as well as your overall aptitude in answering the questions correctly.

Remember, there are 426 total questions available. You will begin to notice that a great deal of the

questions fall into the “common sense” category, in lots of cases the correct answer is obvious, even to

a person with limited exposure to electronics and HAM radio. You will also notice that the questions that

directly concern HAM radio, those covering specific regulations, frequencies, and even schematics will

also present an obvious answer with three not so plausible options.

It is possible to cover all of the questions in the pool on your second study session. If you are doing really

well, meaning your overall aptitude is reasonably high, this may be all you need and can move on to the

next session. For most, you might want to spend your next two or three sessions in the flash cards, until

you can answer a high percentage of the questions correctly.

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Step 5: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

On the last two study sessions before the test you are going to want to move to the “practice test”

section of the site. This is much the same as the flash card portion, but the questions are specifically

chosen from the pool as they might appear on the actual test. You will be presented with 35 questions,

just the same as the real deal. Each question is selected from the different sub-sections covered by the

real exam, so this is more accurate than using the flash card’s aptitude measure in predicting how you

would fare on the actual test.

Each exam is graded upon completion with the questions you missed related to their sub section. You

also have the option to review the test. If you choose to do this after each test, the question you

answered incorrectly will be shown as well as the correct answer.

Remember, you must answer 26 of the 35 answers correctly on the exam, back in school we called this a

“C”. For the last two study sessions, take the tests over and over until you can pass 9 out of 10. I haven’t

had a person who followed this method fail, yet.

Step 6: The Test

At this point, if you’ve diligently put in seven honest days of study, you should recognize a great deal of

the correct answers. You may have found that a few nagging questions you can never seem to get right,

but for the most part you can answer some of the questions by just seeing the first few words of the

question. You are ready to go!

Don’t forget to bring your $15 in cash with you to your test. When you arrive, you will be greeted by

three Volunteer Examiners. These are nothing more than three (soon to be) fellow amateur radio

operators that have taken time out of their days to administer your test. You will be handed a booklet

containing the questions and one of those sheets where you fill in the circle for the correct answer.

I always recommend folks take tests, especially multiple choice tests, in this fashion. Sit down, relax, and

take a look at the first question. If your studying melded your mind from mush into an amateur radio

expert, the answer should be readily apparent. If it isn’t, don’t despair, SKIP the question. Move on to

question two, same here. Answer the questions for which you are POSITIVE and SKIP the ones for which

you are not sure. Do this all of the way to the end of the exam. Because you are answering the questions

that you know, you should breeze through. When you get to the end, go back and count the number of

questions you answered. My bet is most of you answered at least 26 of them. Congratulations, you’ve

already passed. Go back and make you best guess on the remaining questions. Even if you weren’t

POSITIVE of at least 26, you are probably close, and with logic you can get over hump.

When you’ve answered all of the questions to the best of your ability, turn in your test and have a seat.

Your test will be graded by each one of the Volunteer Examiners, this is done for accuracy. My guess is if

you follow this plan they will be congratulating you and welcoming you to the hobby.

Congrats and welcome to the Ham community!

Modern Security Solutions – Jacob S Paulsen www.jacobspaulsen.com Page 63

Source: TinHatRanch Blog

Internet & Computer Safety

Internet Safety for Our Children The Internet is a main source for almost every kind of information. While it is a useful and informative

resource, it is also a dangerous one as well; especially for your children. It is important to know what

your children are accessing on the Internet and to discuss with them the dangers of the Internet. Besides

discussing these dangers with your children, it is important to use other safety measures to protect

them. Consider implementing the following resources and ideas to protect your home from the dangers

of the Internet.

Enable Parent-Control Options: Many Internet Service Providers allow for certain types of sites to be

blocked from access. This security option can be set to the level specified by the user.

Install Internet Filter Software: Research filter software to decide what will best suit your family's needs.

This software blocks specific sites, as well as certain types of sites, and sites containing specific

vocabulary. This can also prevent your and your child's personal information from being accessed on the

Internet.

Watch your child's Internet activity: Through software or the "History" feature on your computer, it is

possible to see what information your child is accessing online.

Bookmark your child's favorite sites: This keeps sites easily accessible to them. Often, children stumble

on a dangerous or inappropriate site accidentally, while trying to access a site they are familiar with.

Keep the computer in a common room: Rather than keeping the computer in one individual's bedroom,

keep it in a room the family frequently visits. Children are less likely to visit inappropriate or dangerous

sites if the computer is in a common room.

Spend time online with your child: Teach your children how to appropriately use the Internet. If

necessary, familiarize yourself with the current features of the Internet.

Set rules for Internet use: Set time limits on how long and during what hours your child can access the

Internet.

Warn your children of the dangers of on-line chat: Many online predators pose as young children or

teenagers to lure children in online. Warn your children to never give out personal information to

anyone online (including their name). They should never give out their number or even agree to call

someone (often predators use this method to access numbers via caller-id). Warn your child to never

agree to meet someone in-person they have met online. Encourage them to talk to you if someone

online makes them feel uncomfortable.

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Notice the warning signs if your child is a victim of an online predator: Signs may include: Spending long

hours on the internet, especially late at night; receiving phone calls from unknown numbers;

withdrawing from family activity; being unwilling to discuss online activity; quickly turning off the

computer or closing windows when someone else enters the room. If your child is showing these signs,

talk to them about their Internet activity. Contact your local law-enforcement or the FBI if your child is a

victim of an online predator.

Source: Kids Health (http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/positive/family/net_safety.html)

Holiday Safety

For Americans, summer means picnics, barbecues, parades, fireworks displays and other fun activities.

Unfortunately, summer holidays are also identified with backyard firecrackers, bottle rockets, cherry

bombs and other dangerous explosives.

Despite efforts to educate people about the hazards of home fireworks, the problem persists. In 2003

(most recent available figures), 10 people were killed and 9,300 people were treated in hospital

emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries. An estimated 5% of fireworks-related injuries treated in

emergency departments required hospitalization (cdc.gov).

Almost half of the injuries happen to children 15 and younger. Almost two-thirds of the victims are male.

Firecrackers, bottle rockets and sparklers cause most fireworks injuries, with firecrackers accounting for

the 30% of the injuries. Even seemingly harmless sparklers burn at temperatures as high as 1,800

degrees Fahrenheit and can cause disfiguring burns. Most injuries result from misuse, including holding

firecrackers too long, picking up lighted fireworks and having fireworks explode near a bystander.

Common injuries include second- and third-degree burns, partial or total loss of sight, lacerations and

fractures.

The National Safety Council strongly urges people to avoid all home fireworks. Some people, however,

will still conduct backyard fireworks displays despite laws against their use and the great danger to

themselves and others. For those people who insist on putting themselves at risk, the National Safety

Council reluctantly offers the following suggestions to minimize the chance of injuries from fireworks to

users and bystanders.

· Always light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from onlookers, houses and flammable

materials.

· Light one device at a time; maintain a safe distance after lighting the devices.

· Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks; douse and soak them with water and

discard them safely.

· Never allow young children to handle fireworks.

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· Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision.

· Do not allow any running or horseplay while fireworks are being used.

· Never ignite devices in a container.

· Always store fireworks in a dry, cool place and avoid rough handling that might damage the

fuse or handles.

As a preventive measure, keep a bucket of water nearby when conducting a home display. Use the

water to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off immediately. Cool water should be applied to burns.

If a person suffers a serious injury, get immediate medical assistance.

Halloween Every October 31, children all over go door to door, trick-or-treating. It is very important to take safety

precautions and prepare before allowing your children to go out.

Before your children go trick or treating, please ensure the following things:

All children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult or someone who

will be responsible for them.

Talk to your children about where they may go. Tell them what areas are off limits. Set

boundaries of where they are allowed to go. Drive the route with them earlier that day

or the night before so there is no confusion.

Make sure your children know to only stop at well-lit homes. If a house is dark and the

porch light is off, tell them to skip the home and go on.

Decide when your children will leave and what time they are expected to return home.

Make sure they have a watch.

Tell your children to bring all candy home for your inspection before they eat any.

Inspect the candy when they return. Do not allow them to eat any home baked goods,

or open candy.

Review safety guidelines on talking to strangers, accepting rides from strangers and

entering strangers' homes. Remind them these rules are still in place on Halloween.

Be sure your children have reflectors on their costume and/or a flashlight so they can

easily be seen. One option is to have them carry a glow-in-the dark bag to carry candy.

If it is cold, be sure your children’s' costumes can keep them warm. Make sure they

wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Be sure their costumes are far enough from the ground

to prevent tripping.

Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends; enjoy a holiday feast; and reflect on what you

are thankful for. Thanksgiving is also the busiest travel weekend of the year in the US. Please consider

the following tips when enjoying your Thanksgiving this year.

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Thanksgiving Dinner Safety:

Thaw the turkey in a refrigerator in advance rather than at room temperature. This

helps prevent the growth of bacteria. Allow one day of thawing for every five pounds of

turkey

Before and after handling raw poultry, wash your hands thoroughly with an anti-

bacterial soap. Have designated cutting boards, pans and utensils for turkey

preparation. This prevents cross-contamination between foods.

Be sure the turkey is completely cooked (no remaining pink meat) before serving.

Closely supervise any young children who may be in the kitchen. Perhaps prepare an

activity for them ahead of time to keep them busy and out of the kitchen during meal

preparation.

Do not leave food unattended during preparation. If you have to temporarily leave the

kitchen, turn off all burners or have someone supervise while you are gone.

Always have a fire extinguisher close at hand.

In case of a burn, run cold water over the burnt skin and dress it with a sterile dressing.

If you choose to decorate your table with candles, be sure they are set in a clear area on

the table. Extinguish candles even when leaving the room, even for a brief moment.

Do not give leftover turkey bones to family pets. Poultry bones are hallow, which can

cause animals to choke.

Immediately store all leftovers in sealed containers in a refrigerator.

Thanksgiving Travel Safety

Rather than traveling with cash; use travelers' checks and credit cards.

Pack minimal valuables.

Do not put all money and forms of ID in one location. Spread them out in case anything

is lost or stolen.

For road travel, be sure to have on hand: road flares, flashlight, first-aid kit, tool kit and

cell phone. If traveling through a cold area, pack extra coats, blankets, socks, hats,

gloves and anything else to keep warm in case you become stranded.

Check all car fluids before beginning your journey.

Have maps of the area in case a detour is necessary.

Make sure someone knows where you are going, when you are leaving and when you

will return.

As always, obey all traffic rules. Give yourself plenty of travel time to avoid speeding.

Christmas Decorations After the Thanksgiving Feast, it is tradition for the Christmas Tree and lights to go up. Christmas is the

most decorated holiday in the United States. This year, before decorating, please consider the following

safety guidelines:

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Christmas Tree

Consider an artificial tree rather than a real one. Each year, real Christmas trees are

involved in 300 fires and$7 million in property damage.

Purchase a tree labeled "fire-resistant." Be sure to place it away from any fireplaces or

radiators.

If purchasing a real tree, make sure it is fresh. Fresh trees are green and the needles

should be hard to pull off the tree. Keep the tree up for a few weeks only, as it will begin

to dry out immediately.

Use only non-combustible and flame-resistant decorations on the tree.

If small children or pets are at home, keep breakable or sharp ornaments above their

reaching ability.

Turn tree lights off during the night and when no one is home.

Lights

Use newer lights equipped with safety fuses.

Check all lights for broken bulbs, cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose

connections. Throw out lights with these characteristics.

When using a ladder to put up lights, have someone supervise and hold the ladder. Do

not climb on the roof if there is the possibility of ice or frost.

Put lights up in the daylight.

Wear gloves when putting up lights. Take a break if you feel too cold.

Turn lights off during the night and when no one is home.

For additional security outside lights can be put on a timer. If you chose to do so change

the timer on ocassion.

Candles

Never leave candles unattended

Be sure all candles are placed in non-flamable holders.

Keep all candles out of range of flammable materials; and away from children and pets.

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