We need to keep safety in mind while we explore: science activities, kitchen, garden, garage, car, and more. Safety in summer and beyond is a theme in this post series. I like this quote: “Safety is a continuing journey, not a final destination.”
Corona virus
Spring 2020 update: COVID-19 or coronavirus is spreading across the world. As all of us prepare for how this virus will spread, emergency preparedness is critical . Vaccines are not currently ready, so hand washing, disinfection, and caution about coughing and sneezing are vital. The CDC recommends that only people who are ill or who in a health care capacity should wear respirators. Be aware that surgical masks will not filter out airborne virus, N95 respirators or better are needed. When cleaning your home, car, or airplane seat, use a household cleaning spray or alcohol wipe (60-95% alcohol) such as Purell or Sani-Hands. Be sure to include counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, remote controls, and bedside tables.
When wearing a respirator, the mask must seal well to the face. Facial hair is an issue with making a good seal. 
(I just have to say, I love the one called Hulihe’e. He looks like King Kalākaua of Hawai’i, and the name is the royal residence at Kailua Kona!)
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
- CDC page on COVID-19
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirator-use-faq.html
- Frequently asked question about respirators and their use
- https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/pdfs/FacialHairWmask11282017-508.pdf
- Facial hairstyles and respirators from CDC NIOSH
- Exploring hand washing with a fun science activity
Eastern Equine Encephalitis
Fall 2019 update: Mosquitos are now carrying Eastern Equine Encephalitis in larger numbers. Since there is no vaccine, preventing bites is very important .
- https://www.cdc.gov/easternequineencephalitis/index.html
- CDC page on EEE virus
- https://clark.com/health-health-care/best-insect-repellent-spray/
- May 2019 best repellants list from Clark Howard
Zika virus and Aedes mosquito
Summertime is so much fun with all the outdoor activities. Unfortunately, we have to worry about mosquitos carrying Zika virus and other diseases, along with sunscreen protection. And when lots of kids are together, hand washing for protection against viral and bacterial diseases becomes so important!
I want to share the Zika virus information:
- http://www.consumerreports.org/content/dam/cro/news_articles/health/Consumer-Reports-Insect-Repellent-Ratings-February-2016.pdf
- List of repellants with test results from Consumer Reports
- http://www.clarkhoward.com/zika-virus-how-to-protect-with-best-repellents?ecmp=clarkhoward_social_facebook_sfp
- Synopsis of the CDC report from Clark Howard
Remember, apply sunscreen first and let it dry, then apply the mosquito repellant. The only “natural” repellant that is effective is oil of lemon eucalyptus. The CDC recommends that this oil NOT be used on children under 3. Two types of Aedes mosquitos carry the disease, A. aegypti and A. albopictus (these also carry dengue and chikungunya viruses.) As a result, many neighbors in our block have invested in mosquito control. The one we have uses a chemical derived from chrysanthemums. If we didn’t have this, I could never step onto our porch or work in my herb garden!
Safety series posts
Thinking safety! Rules for science activities and personal protective equipment
Emergency supply kits. Supplies for health and hygiene and emergency cleanup.
Safety tips First aid, storage of chemicals, fire, and car safety
Germs, black light and slime, oh my! Exploring hand washing
Ultraviolet detection with solar beads Exploring sunscreen use
9 tips for camp counselors and volunteers Maintaining a safe environment for children & forms
Resource Links for safety
- http://busybeingjennifer.com/2016/05/your-vehicles-emergency-kit/
- 10 things for your vehicle’s emergency kit from Busy Being Jennifer
- http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2013/02/emergency-preparedness-week-8-the-reveal-link-party.html
- Emergency preparedness series from A Bowl Full of Lemons. Toni also has an e-book for sale that includes all her great advice and a printables kit for preparing your family.
- http://www.safercar.gov
- Safer Car from the NHTSA gives vehicle safety info and you can sign up for recall notices for your car and for child car seats.
- http://www.flinnsci.com/teacher-resources/safety/general-laboratory-safety/
- General Lab Safety resources from Flinn Scientific. Be sure to check out the Student Safety Contract.
- http://www.mfasco.com/Safety-Eyewear/Safety-Glasses-Indoor/Pyramex-Ztek-Bifocal-Glass-Each.html
- My sock monkey is wearing bifocal safety glasses from Mfasco
- http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/What-to-Keep-in-the-Car.aspx
- “What should you keep in the car?” from the National Safety Council
- http://www.babycenter.com/first-aid-kit-checklist
- First-aid kit checklist from Baby Center
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