Women's Safety Solutions

On Hiatus

2009-08-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

(Photo from Google Images)

August birth flower is the gladiola

Women's Safety Solutions blog is on hiatus.
Thank you for reading and we hope the tips have been helpful.

Enjoy the rest of summer.

Be aware, be safe, and don't forget the sunscreen.

Hi July

2009-07-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

July Birthstone: Ruby - July Flower: Larkspur

(Photo from Google Images)

A few notable mentions for July include:
Anti-Boredom month
Hot Dog month
Ice Cream month
National Blueberry month
Parks & Recreation month

We hope you had a happy and safe 4th of July celebration and that your summer is off to a good start. This week we will tell you about two events on July 8. Video Games Day and the Liberty Bell crack.

First a little history about the Liberty Bell.

Tradition tells of a chime that changed the world on July 8, 1776, with the Liberty Bell ringing out from the tower of Independence Hall summoning the citizens of Philadelphia to hear the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence by Colonel John Nixon.

The Pennsylvania Assembly ordered the Bell in 1751 to commemorate the 50-year anniversary of William Penn's 1701 Charter of Privileges, Pennsylvania's original Constitution. It speaks of the rights and freedoms valued by people the world over. Particularly forward thinking were Penn's ideas on religious freedom, his liberal stance on Native American rights, and his inclusion of citizens in enacting laws.

The Liberty Bell gained iconic importance when abolitionists in their efforts to put an end to slavery throughout America adopted it as a symbol.

There is widespread disagreement about when the first crack appeared on the Bell. Hair-line cracks on bells were bored out to prevent expansion. However, it is agreed that the final expansion of the crack which rendered the Bell unringable was on Washington's Birthday in 1846. Photo and Text source: http://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/

Children's Safety now includes Internet and Video Game supervision as today's kids are Generation Z / the Internet Generation / or the Gamers Generation. Excepted definition from Wikipedia:

A wide variety of claims have been made by various sources: It is claimed that members of Generation Z are not as indulged as Generation Y.They are highly connected, having had lifelong use of communications and media technologies such as DVDs, the World Wide Web, instant messaging, text messaging, MP3 players, cellular phones and YouTube, earning them the nickname "digital natives".

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Generation_Z

These kids have probably played video games since they were toddlers and therefore, can maneuver game pads like second nature. But adults have caught on too and have plenty of their own content choices. Some downsides are developing patterns similar to addiction and spending lots of money and time on games.

Will Wright said, "Society, however, notices only the negative. Most people on the far side of the generational divide - elders - look at games and see a list of ills (they're violent, addictive, childish, worthless). Some of these labels may be deserved. But the positive aspects of gaming - creativity, community, self-esteem, problem-solving - are somehow less visible to nongamers."

This interesting article by Will Wright on Wired dot com, shared plenty of exciting possibilities and positive attributes acquired through video game playing:

Through trial and error, players build a model of the underlying game based on empirical evidence collected through play. As the players refine this model, they begin to master the game world. It's a rapid cycle of hypothesis, experiment, and analysis. And it's a fundamentally different take on problem-solving than the linear, read-the-manual-first approach of their parents.

In an era of structured education and standardized testing, this generational difference might not yet be evident. But the gamers' mindset - the fact that they are learning in a totally new way - means they'll treat the world as a place for creation, not consumption. This is the true impact videogames will have on our culture.

Games cultivate - and exploit - possibility space better than any other medium. In linear storytelling, we can only imagine the possibility space that surrounds the narrative: What if Luke had joined the Dark Side? What if Neo isn't the One? In interactive media, we can explore it.

As computer graphics advanced, game designers showed some Hollywood envy: They added elaborate cutscenes, epic plots, and, of course, increasingly detailed graphics. They bought into the idea that world building and storytelling are best left to professionals, and they pushed out the player. But in their rapture over computer processing, games designers forgot that there's a second processor at work: the player's imagination.
More games now include features that let players invent some aspect of their virtual world, from characters to cars. And more games entice players to become creative partners in world building, letting them mod its overall look and feel. The online communities that form around these imaginative activities are some of the most vibrant on the Web. For these players, games are not just entertainment but a vehicle for self-expression.

Games have the potential to subsume almost all other forms of entertainment media. They can tell us stories, offer us music, give us challenges, allow us to communicate and interact with others, encourage us to make things, connect us to new communities, and let us play. Unlike most other forms of media, games are inherently malleable. Player mods are just the first step down this path.

Games are evolving to entertain, educate, and engage us individually. These personalized games will reflect who we are and what we enjoy, much as our choice of books and music does now. They will allow us to express ourselves, meet others, and create things that we can only dimly imagine. They will enable us to share and combine these creations, to build vast playgrounds. And more than ever, games will be a visible, external amplification of the human imagination.

Will Wright explains how games are unleashing the human imagination.

Full article: http://www.wired.com/wired/archive/14.04/wright.html

There is also a book called "Got Game, How the Gamer Generation is Reshaping Business Forever" by John C. Beck and Mitchell Wade.

Beck and Wade dispel common myths about gamers and reveal them as committed, team-oriented professionals who play to win. They offer strategies today's managers can use to bridge the generation gap and unleash gamers' hidden potential.
More about the book here: http://www.e-learningguru.com/books/gotgame.pdf

Try adding some blueberries to your cereal (excellent antioxidant source). Play video games responsibly. Be Safe.

Sun, Fireworks, Blueberry Cobbler

2009-06-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

We commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, declaring independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776.

The United States of America commonly celebrates Independence Day with fireworks, parades, barbecues, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, and various other public and private events.

We trust you will be aware and mindful of personal safety and family safety.

Whatever your plans are on this 4th of July, if you are outside during the day, there’s a good chance you will be in the sun so here are some reminders about sun safety and protection:

Stay out of the summer sun in the middle of the day if possible. If not, wearing dark, tightly-woven clothing and a wide-brimmed hat also works.

Protect your eyes and wear sunglasses that include a warranty stating they provide 99-100% UVA and UVB (broad-spectrum) protection.

Wear sunscreen - The SPF number on the sunscreen indicates how many times longer, under ideal conditions, a person can stay out in the sun without beginning to turn red in comparison with the amount of time totally unprotected skin would start to burn. Research indicates these numbers are sometimes overstated. Apply to all exposed skin 15 minutes before venturing outdoors.

Depending on your activity (swimming, sweating), sunscreen should be re-applied at least every two hours.

For Babies:

Babies 6 months of age or younger should be kept completely out of the direct sun at all times. In addition, sunscreen shouldn't be applied to babies this age.
For children over 6 months, apply sunscreen every time they go outside.

Condensed info from: Timothy DiChiara, Ph.D., About.com - Updated: May 30, 2009

Celebrate Safely:

If you drink alcohol, don’t drive.

Small children might be frightened by the loud noise of fireworks – they could wear earplugs.

Pet Safety - Keep your pet(s) inside.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety urges everyone to use sparklers in a safe and responsible manner. The Council offers the following safety tips:
Obey the local laws and use common sense.
Always read and follow instructions. Always have an adult present.
Keep burning sparklers away from clothing and flammable objects.
Only use sparklers outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles.
Light only one sparkler at a time.
Alcohol, fireworks and sparklers do not mix. Be responsible.
Do not point or throw sparklers at another person.
Children under the age of 12 should not handle sparklers.
When finished, place used sparklers in a bucket of water.

(Or, just forgo the sparklers and just watch a public display.)

Summer is berry season and I found a recipe (that I plan to try!) for BLUEBERRY COBBLER by Linda Larsen at About.com

This classic dish is very beautiful; you can substitute just about any fresh fruit for the blueberries if you'd like.

Prep Time: 20 minutes / Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
4 cups blueberries, NOT thawed if frozen
1 tsp. lemon juice
2 Tbsp. butter
1 cup flour
2 Tbsp. sugar
1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup whole milk

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Mix 1/2 cup sugar and cornstarch in a 2 quart saucepan and stir in blueberries and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture boils and thickens. Boil and stir for 1 minute. Pour into ungreased 2 quart glass casserole dish and keep mixture hot in oven.

In a medium bowl, cut butter into flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Stir in milk. Drop dough by 6 spoonfuls onto hot blueberry mixture.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until topping is golden brown.

Serve warm topped with whipped cream or ice cream. 8 servings

Recipe/Author Link here

Be Safe. Check your local laws for fireworks. Wear sunscreen.

Summer Safety

2009-06-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

It's officially summer (remember to wear your sunscreen!) I googled 'summer safety' to see what good info I could glean, and is there a lot! Of course water safety is at the top, but did you know your garden hose may be hazardous to your health? Many hoses are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which uses lead as a stabilizer.

This week includes some bits and pieces from areas that might be overlooked when it comes to personal safety, children's safety, and even pet safety.

Garden Safety:
First of all, it's a good idea NOT to ingest any plants, flowers or berries that you are unfamiliar with. Marie Iannotti @ about.com shares 5 common plants you may never have considered as poisonous or dangerous.

1. Chinese Lantern Plant, Strawberry Ground Cherry (Physalis alkekengi)
2. Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum (Chrysanthemum X morifolium, a.k.a. Dendranthema
3. Hydrangea
4. Lantana
5. Rhododendron & Azalea

Full article: http://gardening.about.com/od/allergiesarthritis/tp/Five-Poisonous-Plants.htm

Hose Safety article: http://containergardening.about.com/od/greencontainergardening/a/Gardenhose.htm

Dog Safety Tips:

Heat Stroke - If you take your dog out on your jog, remember they are still jogging in their winter coat (or a slightly lighter version) and can only cool themselves by panting and a small amount of sweating through the foot pads. Not enough! Many dogs, especially the 'athletes' will keep running, no matter what, to stay up with their owner. Change the routine to early morning or late evening to prevent heat stroke.

Dogs can get sunburns, too. If you are planning to spend time outdoors with your dog, find a shady spot and provide plenty of fresh, cool water.

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are naturally skilled swimmers. Also remember that even the most experienced swimmer can become a victim of an undertow, jellyfish or other hazard. Additionally, try not to let your dog drink the water – salt water can dehydrate dogs and cause vomiting and diarrhea. The water in lakes and pond can contain parasites and bacteria that can infect your dog. Provide plenty of fresh, clean water for drinking.

Full Article: http://dogs.about.com/od/caringfordogsandpuppies/tp/warmweathersafety.htm

Scooter, Bike and Pedestrian Safety:
Scooters, bikes, in-line skates and skateboards are associated with numerous injuries yearly.
--Wear a comfortable, properly fitted helmet bearing the label of an independent testing lab. Be sure that the helmet sits level on top of the head–not rocking in any direction–and always fasten the safety strap.
--Be sure that safety gear (wrist, elbow and knee pads) fits properly and does not interfere with the rider's movement, vision or hearing. Wrist pads are not recommended for scooter riders as they may affect their ability to maneuver.
--Ride scooters and bikes only on smooth, paved surfaces and only ride during daylight hours.
--Learn the proper hand signals and use them when you turn or stop. Come to a
complete stop before entering driveways, paths or sidewalks, then look left, right
and left again for bikes, cars or pedestrians heading your way.
--Teach crossing safety to children by example.
--Share the road. Make eye contact, smile, or wave to communicate to motorists. Courtesy and predictability are keys in safe cycling.
--Ride far enough from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars.
--Keep control of your bicycle; be able to look behind you and ride with one hand while signalling.
--Be aware of potential hazards like road litter, potholes, gravel and storm grates.
--Be visible. Cyclists must take responsibility for being visible to motorists,
pedestrians, or other cyclists. There are numerous ways to enhance your visibility. Wear light-colored clothing: fluorescent colors such as bright orange or lime green and yellow are excellent.
Copy Provided by EBC’s State Wellness Program

So enjoy the long summer days and we'll share a variety or women's safety, and family safety tips over the next few weeks. Coming up next, the 4th of July!

Be Aware. Be Safe. Watch out for Bees.

Father's Day

2009-06-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is next Sunday, June 21.

President Calvin Coolidge recommended it as a national holiday in 1924, President Lyndon Johnson made Father's Day a holiday to be celebrated on the third Sunday of June, and the holiday became officially recognized during the presidency of Richard Nixon in 1972.

Retailers use this holiday to promote greeting cards and male-oriented gifts (like ties, electronics, and tools). Often kids are encouraged to make Father's Day gifts in school.

If you happen to live with dad you could make a meal or dessert (refer here to Kitchen Safety). How about getting a little exercise together if the weather is nice? Take a walk, or play Frisbee, football, tennis, or whatever dad likes. Spend time with him and play cards or dominoes. You could wash his car and leave this handy gift inside - the '4-in-1 Auto Emergency Tool', or offer to do a chore or errand for him. Or why not ask him how he would like to spend the day?

While many of us celebrate and honor our own fathers in person, if you can't be with your dad this year, be sure to let him know you are thinking of him and love him. Isn't that what really matters anyway?

Not everyone has positive experiences or memories with their fathers. Maybe it could be a time of forgiveness? Try making amends or peace with the situation if possible. Or, if unfortunately your father was a bad example, why not decide to try to be a better parent, uncle/aunt, or brother/sister yourself?

Some of our fathers have passed on. Bring flowers and visit his grave site, light a special candle in memory of him, or create a small alter somewhere in your home to place objects that remind you of your father.

As a daughter, we need to be proactive and confident about our personal safety. Dad, boyfriend, or husband might feel a little reassured knowing we are equipped to take care of ourselves. This can come from self defense training (depending on what is available where you live), and/or carrying a non-lethal defense product (available here, note that some items are dependent on your local laws).

-------------- Quotes About Fathers -------------------

"A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society." -- Billy Graham, Christian Evangelist

"How true Daddy's words were when he said: 'All children must look after their own upbringing.' Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands." -- Anne Frank, German Jew and Holocaust Victim

"My dad has always taught me these words: care and share." -- Tiger Woods, U.S. Professional Golfer

"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years." --Mark Twain

Home Safety Month

2009-06-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

Not only is June National Safety Month, it is also Home Safety Month and this week I want to share actual safety tips/reminders to use in your home, and also mention a few helpful resources to use if you happen to be looking for a home.

Article Courtesy Of The Home Safety Council (HSC):
Home Safety Month

Ask Americans where they feel safest and most will say their own home. However, unintentional injuries in the home result in nearly 21 million medical visits on average each year.* The Home Safety Council dedicates the month of June – Home Safety Month – to educate and empower both families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.

“We hope to bring attention to the serious problem of preventable home injuries and its leading causes: slips and falls, poisonings and fires and burns,” says Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council. “Just a few simple steps can dramatically reduce the dangers in most homes and may even make a lifesaving difference.”

Throughout Home Safety Month, the Home Safety Council encourages the public to consider their home’s danger areas and take some simple steps to minimize their risk from potential injuries, or even death.

Prevent Falls
• Have grab bars in the tub and shower.
• Have bright lights over stairs and steps and on landings.
• Have handrails on both sides of the stairs and steps.
• Use a ladder for climbing instead of a stool or furniture.
• Use baby gates at the top and bottom of the stairs, if babies or toddlers live in or visit
your home.

Prevent Poisonings
• Lock poisons, cleaners, medications and all dangerous items in a place where children
can’t reach them.
• Keep all cleaners in their original containers. Do not mix them together.
• Use medications carefully. Follow the directions. Use child resistant lids.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas.
• Call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 if someone takes poison. This number
will connect you to emergency help in your area.

Prevent Fires & Burns
• Have working smoke alarms and hold fire drills. If you build a new home, install fire
sprinklers.
• Stay by the stove when cooking, especially when you are frying food.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Turn them off
when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• If you smoke, smoke outside. Use deep ashtrays and put water in them before you
empty them. Lock matches and lighters in a place where children can’t reach them.
• Only light candles when an adult is in the room. Blow the candle out if you leave the
room or go to sleep.

Prevent Choking and Suffocation
• Things that can fit through a toilet paper tube can cause a young child to choke. Keep
coins latex balloons and hard round foods, such as peanuts and hard candy out of
children’s reach.
• Place children to bed on their backs. Don’t put pillows, comforters or toys in the crib.
• Clip the loops in window cords and place them up high where children can’t get them.
• Read the labels on all toys, especially if they have small parts. Be sure that your child is old enough to play with them.
• Tell children to sit down when they eat and to take small bites.

Be Smart Around Water
• Stay within an arm’s length of children in and around water. This includes bathtubs,
toilets, pools and spas – even buckets of water.
• Put a fence all the way around your pool or spa.
• Empty large buckets and wading pools after using them. Keep them upside down when
not in use.
• Make sure your children always swim with a grownup. No child or adult should swim
alone.
• Keep your hot water at or below 120 degrees F to prevent burns.

Visit the Home Safety Resource Center at www.homesafetycouncil.org to review and download free information, including posters, brochures, safety checklists and additional tips to help safeguard your family.
* Through years 1996-2000, based on The State of Home Safety in America™ report, Second Edition.
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When it comes to looking for a new home, personal safety is high on the list as I consider locations. There is a reason the advice is always, "Location, location, location." Here are a few online resources that may aid the search by doing a little investigating of your own.

You can use Google and type in keywords like 'crime spotting or crime maps' in the search box. It will find many sources that can give you an idea of activity in many neighborhoods. Here are a few direct links I found on Google for examples:

http://chicago.everyblock.com/crime/
http://oakland.crimespotting.org/
http://www.spotcrime.com/
http://www.crimereports.com/

With children’s safety in mind, you can do a Google search for 'pedophile database' and find out if or where they might be in neighborhoods you are looking at. Whatever information you can use to help make a better decision, never hurts.

June is Nat'l Safety Month and more

2009-06-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

June Birth Flower: Rose ~ Symbol of Love & Beauty

June is National Safety Month! (We like that)
June 7 is National Cancer Survivor's Day
June 21 is Father's Day
June also happens to be Drive Safe month, Audio Book month, Vision Research month, Fresh Fruit & Vegetables month, and Dairy month to name a few.

Starting with National Safety Month, I'd like to mention a couple of personal safety products you might like to know about:

Electronic Key chain Pocket Whistle This 4" key chain emits a loud 120db whistle for as long as you push the button. Useful in sporting events, a locator in emergencies (earthquakes, collapsed buildings), referee whistle, dog handling and as a safety alarm for college students and crime prevention.

Do you know the difference between a TASER® & Stun Gun? The TASER® allows you to repel the attacker from up to 15 feet away; while a Stun Device requires direct contact using high voltage to stop an attacker. Touching a person with the prongs on the stun gun quickly immobilizes the attacker. Again, both devices are non-lethal but you must check your local laws because they are restricted or illegal in some states.

For the fishing enthusiast, June 6-14 is National Fishing and Boating Week.

From RBFF.org:

Free Fishing Days, offered by many states to coincide with National Fishing & Boating Week in June, are an ideal time to schedule an event that includes fishing and boating activities. In general, Free Fishing Days allow the public to fish without a license. This information may be helpful in planning dates for your fishing, boating and aquatic conservation event.
Free Fishing Days information for many states is available on TakeMeFishing.org.

Here are some safety tips from Ronnie Garrison at About.com for going fishing with kids:

"For safety’s sake, you’ve got to bring the right attitude Safety Comes First as well as the right stuff. Here’s the Safety-Comes-First checklist that (Hooked on Fishing International) HOFI has developed to guide the adult volunteers who supervise all those children (some as young as 5) in more than 1,800 fishing events held at the water’s edge."

§ Establish rules. No running. Keep your shoes on, and look around before you cast.

§ Set up a buddy system. The youngest anglers need an adult "buddy" and constant supervision.

§ Make sure each angler, swimmers and non-swimmers alike, wears a personal flotation device at all times -- on the boat, on the dock, or on the shore.

§ Bring a long-handled fish net, not just for netting fish, but in case you need to reach out to someone in the water. It will also retrieve trash or valuables from the water.

§ First Aid Kit. You should have a kit with medical supplies to deal with all manner of cuts and scrapes, bruises and bumps, bites and boo-boos. You’re likely to be some distance away from professional medical assistance so remember, in the meantime, you’re the "doctor." Johnson & Johnson First Aid Pocket Pals are a smart addition to the tackle box.

§ Cold drink breaks. Summer temperatures can get pretty warm, so bring lots of cool water and other healthy drinks and make sure the young anglers drink fluids often to prevent dehydration or even heat stroke.

§ Sunscreen. The ultraviolet (UV) light of the sun can do a lot of damage to skin, eyes and lips. Outfit young anglers with proper sunglasses, a billed cap, and clothing appropriate to the climate and sun conditions. Avoid fishing in the middle of the day. Cover face, neck, ears, the back of hands and all exposed skin with sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher. Apply chap protection wax on lips.

§ Insect repellent. Mosquitoes, ticks, bees and other insects not only sting, they can carry diseases of one kind or another. Apply insect repellent. Follow the directions on the container. If your insect repellent contains "Deet," it may be better to apply it to the clothing instead of the skin.

§ Safety comes first. All the checklists in the world can’t anticipate all of the safety problems you or your young anglers might encounter on a fishing trip. So the best advice is think safety at all times. Look for trouble before it finds you. If it finds you anyway, know how to deal with it.

In addition, there is an organization for Women's Fly Fishing - Women’s Flyfishing® is run by Cecilia "Pudge" Kleinkauf who offers instruction and guided trips in Alaska. More info here: http://www.womensflyfishing.net/index.htm

Mind your Mind

2009-05-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

I often think about my own personal safety and the times when it has been compromised. Currently, I am in the process of making some powerful life changes and thinking about personal safety in new ways. In addition to protecting ourselves physically (with non-lethal defense weapons), we must remember to protect our mind and soul. What good are we to the world if we are stressed out and riddled with indecision? We have to guard our mind from the worries that creep in so they do not take over!

Traveling in this vast world we live, I’ve worked with many philanthropic organizations and have been involved in charity work. I have seen the world as both an amazing place and a place filled with much conflict and strife. We can travel safely in both places by being informed, alert, and maintaining (or incorporating) a healthy dose of optimism. We can try to find the opportunity in every obstacle.

"Be thankful for each new challenge,

because it will build your strength and character."

Author Unknown, from Be Thankful

Let’s not ‘tune out’ instead remember to stay ‘awake’ in life and in the world regardless of what is thrown in our way. Yes, it can often be overwhelming but we can breathe and rise to the challenge. Just like the world, we (as women) are amazing and challenging. Let’s strive for a healthy balance in our minds to feel secure in our thoughts, our speech, and the way we carry ourselves.

"If we don't change,

we don't grow.If we don't grow,

we are not really living.

Growth demands a temporary surrender of security."

~ Gail Sheehy ~

I also want to take a look back this week as we missed talking about International Women’s Day (IWD) which is held every year on March 8. The website contains articles on a variety of topics. As I was reviewing their website (noted below) I found the following information interesting to read which I chose to share here this week:

GENDER FACTS

Networking:
Women use 20,000 words a day while men only use 7,000

Global Issues:
Females in developing countries on average carry 20 litres of water per day over 6 km
Globally women account for the majority of people aged over 60 and over 80
Pregnant women in Africa are 180 times more likely to die than in Western Europe
530,000 women die in pregnancy or childbirth each year
World population hit 6,872,741,131 on 1 January 2009
Of 1.2 billion people living in poverty worldwide, 70% are women
80% of the world's 27 million refugees are women
Women own around only 1% of the world's land
AIDS sees women's life expectancy of 43 in Uganda and Zambia
5 people are added to the world's population every 2 seconds
Women are 2/3 of the 1 billion+ illiterate adults who have no access to basic education

Innovation:
Globally women comprise 42% Internet users (Italy 37% ... US & Canada 51%)
In OECD countries women comprise only 30 per cent of degrees in science and technology
Women's representation in computer and information sciences workforce is around 30% globally
Female inventors still only account for around 10% of the US inventor population

Business / Finance:
Women control $14 trillion in assets and this should grow to $22 trillion over next 10 years
Women comprise 21 of the 37 million people living below the poverty line in the US
Only in Japan and Peru are women more active in starting a business than men
Women spend more time researching before they invest than men do

Media / Arts:
Only 21% of all news subjects (people interviewed or whom the news is about) are female
Women less than 1% department heads, editors, media owners but third of working journalists
80% of UK purchasing decisions are made by women but 83% of 'creatives' are men

Work:
Women do two-thirds of the world's work but receive only 10% of the world's income
Women's education is the most powerful predictor of lower fertility rates
One year out of college women earn 20% less than men and 10 years later 31% less
Women on average are away from workforce for 14.7 years compared to 1.6 years for men
The biggest EU gender pay gap is in Cyprus and Estonia at 25% then Slovakia at 24%

Government:
56% of women who voted supported Obama compared to only 49% of men voted for Obama
Until 20 years ago there had never been more than 5% women MPs globally
Benazir Bhutto was the first woman prime minister of a Muslim country (assassinated 27/12/07)
From the 27 EU member states, UK ranks 15 for women's representation in national Parliaments
From 1945 to 1995 the percentage of women MPs worldwide increased four-fold

SOURCE: http://www.internationalwomensday.com/facts.asp

WEBSITE LINK: http://www.internationalwomensday.com/default.asp

"Wishing you Good Mental Health". ~Dr. Frasier Crane~

Next Stop - Memorial Day

2009-05-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

Today we are thinking about upcoming plans over Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May (on May 25 in 2009). Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the civil war), it was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action. (From Wikipedia)

We like the idea of peppering these entries with some spirit and creativity. In addition to women’s safety, family safety, and other non-lethal defense topics, we will share inspiration from poems to recipes and information relevant to the current month.

Wherever your plans take you this upcoming weekend, let’s try and take a little mental break from our stresses and safety issues. Enjoy some time with family or friends, have a picnic or barbecue, take a bike ride, a hike, or a walk (hopefully the weather will be nice). Attend a parade, local event, or enjoy a quiet day, but don’t forget to pause at 3 p.m.

Congress established The National Moment of Remembrance in 2000. We are asked to pause for one minute at 3 p.m. local time, in an act of national unity. This moment is to honor and reflect on those who served and gave their lives for our country to protect our freedom.

Suggestions for a Picnic Menu:
Crock Pot Ribs (recipe enclosed below)
Potato Salad
Green Salad
Corn on the Cob
Fresh cut fruit (in season)
Berry Cobbler w/ Fresh whipped Cream

Crock Pot Ribs Recipe

Ingredients
2-Pork Rib Slabs – cut to fit/fill your crock pot
1-Bottle your favorite BBQ Sauce – save the bottle
¼-cup Spicy Brown Mustard
¼-cup Ketchup
2-Tablespoons Brown Sugar
¼-cup Water

Directions
Stack slabs inside pot add sauce, mustard and brown sugar.

Use water to rinse out and capture sauce from bottle and pour over the top.

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Uncover and enjoy!!

NOTE: If taking somewhere you can unplug and continue the process at your location – almost any outdoor parks and picnic areas have electricity poles these days.

You see, we didn’t have to say too much about defense devices, personal safety and personal protection this time. (Except this reminder to be alert and safe if you are driving.) So until next time, enjoy your week and the long weekend – the unofficial kick off to summer! Our thoughts go out this Memorial Day to all the families who have lost someone in military service.

Women's Travel Safety

2009-05-11T22:29:00.000-07:00

It is nearly mid-May and some of us are already busy planning for graduations (whether middle-school promotions or College) celebrations and summer traveling. We begin to make plans while the DOW continues to rise and fall; as gas prices continue to go up; as jobless rates rise; and as news reporters tout pandemics and epidemics; all media jargon which continues to try and scare us into some type of media-made captivity. Nonetheless, in the words of veteran female traveler Zahara Heckscher, "Stay safe but don't stay home!"

As we venture out, female concerns may include sexual-verbal harassment, come-on’s, inappropriate comments, crude propositions, unwanted touching, groping, physical assault, rape. Women are also more likely to be the victims of theft. A crucial reason we need to use our common sense and basic street smarts as we would at home (or learn them).

Basic travel tips for Women’s Safety Solutions:
Conceal your valuables: You can wear a slim money belt (not to be confused with a bulky fanny pack), neck wallet/pouch, or a hidden pocket. Your essential documents are secure and hidden on you. It’s a good idea to conceal some extra cash on your body whether in your shoe, sock, or bra, in case you become separated from your bag.

Carry a light or the Electronic Keychain/Pocket Whistle connected to a small plain key chain. Carry a small flashlight and always be careful on dark streets even if you have a companion.

Express confident body language. Keep your head up and walk with purpose.

Watch the crowd and be aware of your belongings in crowded places like airports and train stations, flea markets, or during street festivals. In crowds you're more likely to be jostled and thieves can take advantage of grabbing your possessions. This would include minimizing your own distractions such as using an ipod or cell phone.

Opt for modest attire. In a nutshell, match your dress style to that of the locals and avoid clothing that will attract unwanted attention.

Don't bring the bling. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. It could be stolen, yanked off you by force, or send a message that you have more worth robbing. Save it for your parties at home – and avert that kind of attention while traveling. However, you might consider wearing an inexpensive wedding ring. This can help deter unwanted advances if you are unattached or traveling alone.

Let the bag go. If a thief tries to take your purse, shout for help, but it’s best to let go than risk assault. It is suggested not to reach for the opening in your purse to hand over your wallet as this may be enough to confuse or alarm the thief into thinking you're reaching for a weapon.

Stay safe in your hotel room with the Home Protection - Door Brace that will work anywhere. With these devices, no stranger will enter your hotel room and keep you safe while traveling.

Remember - Pepper spray can be an effective self defense weapon. Learn how to use pepper spray safely by studying the Defense Spray Facts - Booklet. You can find a wide variety of pepper sprays - purse sized and key chain sprays at http://www.istunyou.com/.

*If you choose to carry a defense device, be sure to check on the standards or local laws of the country you are visiting.

*Outside of the USA – you can note the US embassies and locate other government travel emergency assistance.
http://travel.state.gov/

Source for some of the travel tips: Kathleen Crislip @ About.com article: http://studenttravel.about.com/od/womenstudenttravelers/a/womentips.htm

With these tips in mind and following the same precautions you do in your own hometown, you equip yourself the best you can. Keep safe and hit the roads, skies, canals, oceans or trails. Travel and open your world!

A Slice of Mother's Day

2009-05-06T12:50:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 10. We wouldn't be here without them!

As you prepare to cook a special meal for Mother, let's keep family safety and health in mind by revisiting these basic food safety tips.

Excerpted from a USDA News Release:
Rubbery eggs, burned pancakes, undercooked bacon — what mother doesn't treasure the memory of the little hands that cooked a Mother's Day breakfast! Mother's Day is the perfect time for dads and other caregivers to teach children simple food safety lessons while supervising the preparation of a special meal made for Mom.

Mother's Day has been officially celebrated the second Sunday in May since 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed the day into national observance.

FSIS encourages both children and adults to put these four easy to remember lessons — Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill — into practice in order to Be Food Safe on Mother's Day and every day:

Clean: Wash hands and surfaces often.
Separate: Separate raw meat, poultry and egg products from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.
Cook: Raw meat, poultry and egg products need to be cooked thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to ensure foods have reached a high enough temperature to kill any harmful bacteria that might be present.
Chill: Refrigerate promptly.

Lesson 1. Stay Clean
Bacteria can be hiding just about anywhere: in the kitchen, on a plate and on hands. These invisible enemies can multiply and make Mom sick. Cooks of every age should wash their hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after food preparation, after playing with pets, and after using the bathroom.

All fruits and vegetables should be washed with running water before cutting or eating them. Only put food on clean surfaces. Always use clean knives, forks, spoons and plates.

Lesson 2. Keep Raw and Cooked Foods Separated
Cross-contamination is the technical description for how bacteria can be spread from one food product or surface to another. This is especially true when handling raw meat, poultry, eggs and seafood, so keep these foods and their juice away from ready-to-eat foods.

Always use a clean plate. Never place cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat, poultry and seafood. Never put food on a dirty table or counter. Always wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils with hot, soapy water after they come in contact with raw meat, poultry, eggs and seafood.

Lesson 3. Cook Food to Safe Temperatures
Foodborne bacteria can't be seen, smelled or tasted. Use a food thermometer to make sure food has reached a USDA recommended minimum internal temperature. No matter how old the chef, you can't tell food is cooked safely by how it looks.

Always place the food thermometer in the thickest part of the food, away from bone and fat, to check the temperature. When cooking in a microwave oven, stir, cover, and rotate food for even cooking. It's important to let food stand for a few minutes after cooking it in the microwave. Always cook eggs before eating them. When cooked, eggs should be firm, not runny.

Lesson 4. Keep Perishable Foods Cold
Bacteria need time and the right environment to grow and multiply - such as moisture and warmth. Most foodborne illness-causing organisms grow quickly above 40° Fahrenheit. Some bacteria can double their numbers every 20 minutes at temperatures above 40° Fahrenheit. In a few hours, bacteria on food can cause an illness or form "toxins" that might not be fully destroyed by cooking.

Some foods that need to stay cold (at 40° Fahrenheit or below) include sandwiches or salads made with meat and poultry; tuna and egg salad; milk, cheese, and yogurt; and peeled or cut fruits and vegetables.

Finally, any leftovers from Mom's special meal should be refrigerated within two hours. Perishable food left out for more than two hours should be thrown out and not fed to the family pet. Even pets are susceptible to foodborne bacteria. To reheat leftovers safely, make sure they reach 165" Fahrenheit as measured with a food thermometer.
Full Article Here: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/NR_042809_01/index.asp

And now for some sentiment - a poem and more ideas to follow:

A Mother's Love ~ By Helen Steiner Rice

A Mother's love is something

that no on can explain,

It is made of deep devotion

and of sacrifice and pain,

It is endless and unselfish

and enduring come what may

For nothing can destroy it

or take that love away . . .

It is patient and forgiving

when all others are forsaking,

And it never fails or falters

even though the heart is breaking . . .

It believes beyond believing

when the world around condemns,

And it glows with all the beauty

of the rarest, brightest gems . . .

It is far beyond defining,

it defies all explanation,

And it still remains a secret

like the mysteries of creation . . .

A many splendoured miracle

man cannot understand

And another wondrous evidence

of God's tender guiding hand.

Also, make a nice personalized gift for Mother by sharing a favorite poem (of yours or hers) or try writing one yourself! For helpful and inspiring poetry tips, see this article at Lifescript.

AND... How about serving up some strawberry shortcake? The simplest way I know, is to use prepared shortcakes or pound cake (or you could make your own). Get some fresh strawberries - wash and slice.

(Personal Safety tip: Always chop or slice slowly and carefully - cut away from your body - and curl fingers under on the hand holding the food.)

Pile strawberries on top of cake slice and add a dollop of whipped topping and Viola!

Hello May

2009-05-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

MAY Birth Flower: Lily of the Valley

As well as honoring Memorial Day and Mother’s Day, May is…
National BBQ and National Hamburger Month National Egg, Strawberry, and Asparagus Month!

The first week of May includes the 23rd Anniversary of National Physical Education and Sports Week and National Egg Salad week (Yummy!).

So how can we do all of these wonderful things in May?

The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (http://www.fitness.gov/) issues the President's Challenge: A program that encourages all Americans to make 'being active' part of their everyday lives.

Each year the National Association for Sport Physical Education (NASPE) develops special integrated activities for teachers and their students to do during National Physical Education and Sport Week, May 1-7. This week is encouraged by parents and educators to help ensure kids are getting daily exercise. In addition to being alert about children's safety, their health can become at risk with extra pounds. All the more reason they need to get regular exercise and play. Since this week is encouraged by parents and educators to help ensure kids are getting daily exercise, why don’t we use this awareness to motivate ourselves to exercise daily as well?

Just as we always want to be mindful of our own personal safety, physical exercise and a healthy diet are solutions to keeping our bodies and minds healthy and strong. It is important for women to do weight-bearing exercises to prevent bone loss and help tone muscles. There is a wide array of fitness activities available including: walking, running, biking, hiking, lifting weights, dancing, yoga, swimming, and many more. Out of all of these activities, biking presents a unique safety challenge.

Biking Safety Tip
Something to bear in mind for biking safety is to use bicycle lights. A headlight and a tail light will make you more visible to motorists.

On a nice day, after your bike ride or exercise walk, pack up a lunch with egg salad sandwiches, strawberries and asparagus and go enjoy a little picnic.

Here is a basic, tasty egg salad recipe:

4-6 Hard-boiled Eggs, peeled and chopped
1-2 TBSP Mayonnaise
1 Celery stalk washed and chopped
2 teaspoons Red, Sweet White, or Green onion finely chopped
1 tiny squeeze of Lemon Juice
Salt (or garlic salt) and Pepper, to taste

Gently mix the eggs, mayonnaise, salt and pepper in a medium-size bowl. Stir in the celery and onion. Taste, and adjust if needed.

Spoon some egg salad on your choice of bread. Add a couple pieces of lettuce, sliced tomato, or avocado if you like.

Better yet, include your mother in all of this if you can and before you know it you are celebrating May to its fullest!!

Children's Safety

2009-04-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

Children's safety is a subject you might never think about unless you have your own or are suddenly in charge of one.

No matter if your current relationship to a child is as a parent, a child-care provider, a babysitter, a relative or friend; possessing some handy skills such as First-Aid and CPR Training (usually available at your local American Red Cross) are invaluable.

In addition, here are some affordable, comforting products to help keep children safe no matter the situation:

This Sampler kit contains the necessary child protection basics for the home:
2 Cabinet Latches, 4 Outlet Plugs, Cabinet Lock, Door Knob Guard, 4 Corner Cushions

Perhaps you're outside with your toddler and concerned about he or she wandering off and getting lost. There's an option to the child harness, which actually looks like a leash. iStunyou carries a child guard remote monitor.

This guard is worn by the child and the cartoon animal-shaped transmitter sends a constant signal to the receiver, which is held by the adult. The signal is adjustable - from a distance of 6 to 30 feet, so when the child goes beyond the set distance, the adult receiver starts to beep, letting them know that the child is starting to wander off.

In honor of Earth Day last week, here are some helpful tips on teaching children the value of learning 'green' habits. Such as turning off lights and turning off water while brushing.
http://childparenting.about.com/od/socialdevelopment/tp/growupgreen.htm

April Awareness

2009-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Children Learn What They Live
(Poem by Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.)

If children live with hostility,
they learn to fight.

If children live with ridicule,
they learn to be shy.

If children live with tolerance,
they learn to be patient.

If children live with encouragement,
they learn confidence.

If children live with praise,
they learn to appreciate.

If children live with fairness,
they learn justice.

If children live with security,
they learn faith.

If children live with approval,
they learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance, and friendship,
they learn to find love in the world.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families.

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, research states these are some common risk factors associated with maltreatment (note, this does not always result in abuse or neglect):

Child maltreatment literature indicates that some maltreating parents or caregivers were victims of child abuse and neglect themselves. Research suggests that about one-third of all individuals who are maltreated as children will subject their children to maltreatment, further contributing to the cycle of abuse.

Research indicates there can be a link between substance abuse and child maltreatment. Substance abuse may be a contributing factor for between one-third and two-thirds of maltreated children in the child welfare system. The number and complexity of co-occurring family problems often make it difficult to understand the full impact of substance abuse on child maltreatment.

Negative attitudes about a child's behavior and inaccurate knowledge about child development may play a contributing role in child maltreatment. A parent's lack of knowledge about normal child development may result in unrealistic expectations and culminate in inappropriate punishment.

There are positive factors that can increase the health and well-being of children and families. These attributes help parents to find resources, supports, or coping strategies that allow them to parent effectively, even under stress. Research has shown that the following protective factors are linked to a lower incidence of child abuse and neglect:

A child's early experience of being nurtured and developing a bond with a caring adult affects all aspects of behavior and development. When parents and children have strong, warm feelings for one another, children develop trust that their parents will provide what they need to thrive, including love, acceptance, positive guidance, and protection.

There is extensive research linking healthy child development to effective parenting. Children thrive when parents provide not only affection, but also respectful communication and listening, consistent rules and expectations, and safe opportunities that promote independence. Successful parenting fosters psychological adjustment, helps children succeed in school, encourages curiosity about the world, and motivates children to achieve.

Parents who can cope with the stresses of everyday life, as well an occasional crisis, have resilience; they have the flexibility and inner strength necessary to bounce back when things are not going well. Multiple life stressors, such as a family history of abuse or neglect, health problems, marital conflict, or domestic or community violence—and financial stressors such as unemployment, poverty, and homelessness—may reduce a parent's capacity to cope effectively with the typical day-to-day stresses of raising children.

Parents with a social network of emotionally supportive friends, family, and neighbors often find that it is easier to care for their children and themselves. Most parents need people they can call on once in a while when they need a sympathetic listener, advice, or concrete support. Research has shown that parents who are isolated, with few social connections, are at higher risk for child abuse and neglect.

Many factors affect a family's ability to care for their children. Families who can meet their own basic needs for food, clothing, housing, and transportation—and who know how to access essential services such as childcare, health care, and mental health services to address family-specific needs—are better able to ensure the safety and well-being of their children.

All excerpts cited here, along with extensive information and resources can be found at the Child Welfare website - http://www.childwelfare.gov/index.cfm

Spring Safety

2009-04-12T16:08:00.000-07:00

Spring beckons us outdoors where the cherry blossoms are blooming and the days are growing longer. In spring we celebrate Passover and Easter with family and friends. Students are on spring break.

Spring is a time of renewal. It reminds us of the hope we can find just as nature revives the green leaves and colorful flowers, seasons and circumstances always change.

These are challenging times and we could all benefit from being a little more mindful and resourceful.

We know while jobs continue to disappear and debts pile up, people are trying to make ends meet and do the best the can. As the dark, cold days of winter move into brighter, warmer days, there are some measures to help individuals and families be alert and feel secure.

Always be aware of your surroundings

Pay attention to gut feelings and trust your instincts

Carry a personal protection item on you

Take a self-defense class

Talk with people you trust to share support and encouragement

These are some affordable options for home security products:

For windows, you can attach a Mace™ Window Alert which is a 95 decibel glass breakage alarm that attaches to windows and set off by vibrations if someone tries to break through. Click HERE for more info.
Dual Function Door brace – works on hinged or sliding doors. This can be used in hotels or vacation rentals and fold to fit in most suitcases. Click HERE for more info.
MACE WIRELESS HOME SECURITY SYSTEM - This easy to operate security system will sound an alarm and dial up 5 preset phone numbers to let you know motion has been detected or a door or window has opened in your home. A land line with "tone" dialing is required. Click HERE for more info.

Go out and enjoy the beautiful spring days. Just remember to be aware and if it helps you feel a little more secure, consider keeping a little pepper spray handy. This tri-pack offers total pepper protection - for home use, in your vehicle, and a key chain to carry with you.

Welcome

2009-04-02T14:49:00.001-07:00

The fact is – crime is real. We need to be aware that it can happen anywhere and to anyone. One solution that many people use to feel safe, is to carry a non-lethal defense product. Carrying a key chain pepper spray, TASER®, or stun gun in your pocket can offer protection and peace-of-mind.

The Women’s Safety Solutions Blog will provide helpful information on the products the iStunyou website carries, as well as share tips and stories so you feel informed and prepared in general. Women’s safety is the focus here, but iStunyou also carries a variety of specialty items including children’s safety; home security; even little safety lights for pets.