Mohd Yazri Bin Yahaya: Life Challenges

Life Challenges

All of us experience major,

and minor life challenges.

How we handle these struggles,

on a daily basis determines our physical,

as well as our mental well being.

It takes only a single event to convince us,

we have no control over our circumstances.

Sometimes these challenges consume us with guilt,

panic attacks or chronic fatigue.

Our problems pressure us from every side,

threatening to crush or break us.
Surprisingly, all life challenges have a direct relationship,

in defining our purpose in life.

If only we could find assurance that there was a plan,

or reason for the difficulties we face.

We search for meaning in tragedy,

questioning our reason for hope or a future.

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My Safety Info

Issued Friday, December 5, 2008

Cribs Safety

1) Its slats should not be more than 2 3/8 inches apart to avoid trapping of baby's head.

2) Neither the headboard nor the footboard should have any cutouts as this can lead to entrapment of the baby's head.

3) Cribs should not have a corner post, as loose clothing may become snagged on these and lead to choking.

4) If you are using a newly bought mattress, please make sure that all plastic covering is removed as this can lead to suffocation to your baby.

5) The mattress should fit well. If you are able to insert two fingers between the mattress and the sides and the ends of the crib, CHANGE TO A NEW ONE that fits snugly. This is to ensure that your baby cannot slip into the space.

6) When your baby is able to pull to a standing position, make sure that the height of the side rail is not more than ¾ of the baby's height. This is to prevent your baby from falling out either by leaning against the side or by pulling himself over it.

Toys Safety

1) Toys are fun and they help children learn about themselves, their environment and the people around. Unfortunately, some toys can be dangerous.

2) Poorly constructed toys or toys are inappropriate for your child's level of development can lead to tragic results.

3) Always remember that the supervision is the most important safety factor that you can provide to protect a child from harm, and that the safety and age appropriateness are the most important consideration when selecting a toy for your children or any children under your care.

4) Always remove and immediately discard all packaging before giving it to baby or small child.

5) Supervise your child's play. Proper toy construction and selection is not enough.It is your responsibility to ensure your child is playing in safe environment.

6) Care for your toys. Check all your toys regularly for breakage or potential hazards such as a loose part which could be a choking danger.

7)Toys also must be non toxic and non flammable as they can cause hazard to the children.

Issued Friday, December 12, 2008

General Home Safety
1) All household cleaners, chemicals, pesticides and medicines are stored in child resistant containers and out of children’s reach.

2) Matches and lighters are stored out of children’s sight and reach.

3) Smoke alarms are installed on each level and in each sleeping area.

4) A fire escape plan is in place and has been practiced.

5) Electrical outlets are covered.

6) Electrical cords are out of traffic areas.

7) Counters and tables have rounded corners or corner covers or corner guards.

8) Sharp objects and tools are stored safely.

9) Throw rugs have non-slip backing.

10) Gates block toddler access to gates.

11) No baby walker in the house.

12) Drapery and window blind cords are out of reach.

13) Garbage containers have secure lids

Bedroom Safety
1) Beds are away from windows to prevent falls.

2) The mattress fits tightly against all four sides of thebed.

3) Children under six are never allowed on the top bunk of the bed.

4)The ladder is attached safely to the bunk bed.

5)Electrical cords are out of traffic areas.

Kitchen Safety
1)Hot liquids are always are out of children’s reach.

2) Pot handles and cords on the stove are out children’sreach.

3) Small appliances are out of children’s reach andunplugged when not in use.

4) A working fire extinguisher is handy.

5) Place mats are used instead of table cloths.

Bathroom Safety
1) Children are always supervised when in the bathroom.

2) A safety mat is used in the tub.

3) Bathroom door can be unlocked from both sides.

4) Medicines, cleansers and soaps are stored out of reach.

5) Buckets are always kept empty after use.

6) The floor of the bathroom is not made of slippery materials.

Issued Friday, December 19, 2008

Falls
1) Always use a ladder or step stool to retrieve anything above shoulder level.

2) Ladders, or step stools, should be sturdy and not have any broken rungs or legs.

3) Do not lean too far back in chairs. This may result in over-balancing and a fall.

4) Never use ladder substitutes such as chairs or boxes.

5) Be sure the pathway is clear before you walk.

6) Secure electrical cords and wires away from walkways.

7) Avoid excessive bending, twisting, and leaning backward while seated.

Filing Cabinets or Bookcases
1) Fill the second drawer from the bottom in a four-drawer filing cabinet before any of the others, to weight the bottom and to prevent it from tilting over.

2) Return drawers and doors to the closed position after use to prevent bumping and tripping. Never open more than one drawer or door at a time.

3) Place file cabinets where their use will not interfere with traffic patterns.

4) Secure cabinets or bookcases taller than 64 inches to the wall to prevent toppling over.

Electrical Equipment
1) Frayed electrical cords, loose or broken electrical wires, broken outlet covers and receptacles, and worn or broken electrical plugs are dangerous and should be repaired or replaced before being used again.

2) Moisture and electricity do not mix. Placing liquids on or around electrical equipment (such as computers, radios, copiers, printers or microwaves) increases the risk of electrocution if the liquid spills and gets into the electrical equipment. This includes wet or sweaty hands.

3) Do not block electrical panel doors. If an electrical malfunction should occur, the panel door and anything else in front of the door will become very hot.

4) Electrical panel doors should always be kept closed, to prevent "electrical flashover" in the event of an electrical malfunction.

Issued Friday, December 26, 2008

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: The Silent Killer
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide gas is inhaled. CO is a colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas that is produced by incomplete combustion. It is found in automobile exhaust fumes, faulty stoves and heating systems, fires, and cigarette smoke.

Other sources include woodburning stoves, kerosene heaters, improperly ventilated water headers and gas stoves, and blocked or poorly maintained chimney flues. CO interferes with the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. The result is headache, nausea, convulsions, and finally death by asphyxiation.

About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
1) Unlike many gases, it is odourless, colourless, tasteless and non-irritating. Red blood cells absorb the gas over 200 times more readily than oxygen.

2) As levels of carbon monoxide in the air rise, this gas replaces oxygen in the bloodstream. As a result, body tissues are damaged and may die of a lack of oxygen.

3) The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are respiratory difficulties and impairing of visual perception.

4) Have a reliable mechanic check the exhaust system of your car once a year to check for leaks and damaged pipes. Have the system checked if the sound of the exhaust is suddenly different or if you hear any funny noises.

5) When driving in heavy traffic it is also advisable to have a slight opening in the windows, especially with the air-conditioning on. Do this when you are caught in heavy traffic or when the car is stationary for long hours.

6) If you park your car in a closed garage, carbon monoxide can rapidly build up while your engine is running with the garage doors closed. Never run your car in a garage unless the outside door is open to provide ventilation.

7) Have your vehicle regularly tuned to ensure that there is proper combustion in the engine. This will reduce the level of carbon monoxide emissions.

8) If the car has a catalytic converter, make sure it is in proper working condition. Removing the catalytic converter can also increase carbon monoxide levels.