Heat, and Snakes, and Ticks, Oh My!
Scorching heat is here, and many states are enduring record breaking temperatures. Taking measures to ensure the health and safety of employees working or exercising outside is essential. OSHA has a new poster to Prevent Heat Related Illness at Work.
There are other concerns in the summertime besides sweltering heat. Between poisonous snakes, and predictions of increased number of ticks, taking precautions when outdoors are a must. Providing employees with summer safety tips that include first aid measures, keep employees safe and healthy plus ensures quick and appropriate treatment.
OSHA’s Publication on Heat Stress. Please contact us to schedule First Aid Classes or First Aid Topic reviews to ensure employee health and safety, as well as quick response.
And Now This!
There is an emerging danger from lithium batteries, also known as button batteries — causing injuries and death in children. When swallowed, these small batteries get stuck in the esophagus (throat). The saliva triggers an electric current which causes a chemical reaction that can severely burn the esophagus in as little as two hours.
Lithium batteries can be found in many electronic items in your home, such as TV remote controls, watches, toys and even shoes.
If your suspect your child swallowed a button battery the advice is to:
Seek immediate medical attention – do not delay!
Give honey 1 tsp every 10” up to 6 doses which creates barrier in throat.
A few do NOTs:
- Do NOT give your child anything else but honey to eat or drink. If your child vomits, do NOT offer another dose
- Do not give medications to make your child move his/her bowels or vomit.
- Do not give milk; this will not prevent further injury.
- Do not attempt the Heimlich maneuver, even if you saw your child swallow the battery. The battery could get stuck another area or change its location and increase the risk of injury.
Signs that your child has swallowed a button battery may include:
- A sudden onset of crying (some children may not be in pain)
- Drooling
- Decreased eating or drinking
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarse voice
- Vomiting
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Abdominal pain, blood in saliva and stool
Keep your child safe by:
- Knowing where the batteries are in the home
- Inform other caretakers about the issue
- Securing them out of reach of children
- Placing a piece of duct tape over the battery cover to prevent small children from accessing the battery.
- Informing others about the risk
Photo by: Camilo Jimenez On Unsplash