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October // Safety Article

The odds are very good that each and every person reading this article has received at least one (and more than likely, closer to a hundred) sets of manufacturer’s instructions for something.  It can be tempting to toss that paper aside, but DON’T! Manufacturer’s instructions contain detailed and valuable information on how a product should be used and maintained. 

This is especially important for items that can cause significant harm when manufacturer’s instructions are not followed, such as bed rails, mobility devices, and heat-generating devices.  Following manufacturer’s instructions reduces the risk of injury from use of the device. Many studies have found that failing to follow manufacturer’s instructions are a significant cause of preventable injuries.  It is always worth it to take the time to read them, and keep them handy in a designated spot, so you remember where you put them. 

In the words of Benjamin Franklin – “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!” 

Posted in General Information /Safety /

ASK THE EXPERT // TORNADO/SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY

As Spring brings the very welcome warmer weather, it also brings an increased risk of severe weather.  Copperfield Hill has policies and procedures in place to ensure resident and staff safety in the event of severe weather.  These policies and procedures can be found in your Resident Handbook. We strongly encourage you to read and review these so you are ready to go in the event of severe weather. 

When there is a dramatic change in the weather conditions including: Dark skies, windy conditions, rapid drop in temperature TORNADOS MAY DEVELOP.

Severe Weather/Tornado WATCH means that there are conditions that are favorable to severe weather or a tornado developing.

Severe Weather/Tornado WARNING means that severe weather or a tornado has been spotted and immediate action must be taken to ensure your safety. Close your blinds and windows and stay away from windows. The safest place in your apartment is your bathroom, with the door shut. The safest common areas are the lowest levels of either building, away from windows.

During instances of severe weather, please remember to:

· Keep away from windows

· Keep your cell phone fully charged and nearby

· Wear your emergency pendant

· Locate a flashlight

· Keep a radio or television tuned to a station providing weather updates

Our staff receive regular training on emergency preparedness and response, so we can work together to ensure everyone’s safety.  If you have any questions or concerns about any of our emergency preparedness policies and procedures please do not hesitate to contact the front desk.  We are happy to help. 

~Ashley Farr, Legal Counsel

Posted in General Information /Safety /Senior Living /Uncategorized /

ASK THE EXPERT // Fire Safety and Prevention

As we head into what can be the coldest months of the season, we wanted to provide a few reminders about fire prevention and safety. 

► Please keep all items away from the floorboard heat registers – especially oxygen containers, paper and cardboard. 

► If your apartment is too cold please contact maintenance so they can resolve the problem for you quickly. 

► NEVER store things in your oven or on top of your stove.

► If you use oxygen, you must store the containers in a well-ventilated area, with containers secured in a stand or cart so they cannot be easily knocked over. Oxygen containers must never be stored near heat generating sources. 

► Do not keep candles in your apartment. 

► Remember,  if you have a device that is used to generate heat such as a space heater, electric fireplace, etc.you must have it approved by management.  If you have such a device, please contact the Front Desk to schedule an inspection from Maintenance to ensure it is safe to use in our setting. 

► Ensure all your electric plug ins/cords are in good condition and are not tearing or frayed. 

► When using your oven or microwave, make sure you are using the correct temperature and time settings, and have removed any packaging, following the food product’s cooking/heating instructions. 

Maintenance routinely tests apartment smoke alarms and the smoke alarms we use are designed to have a 10 year battery life. However, if you hear a chirping/beeping coming from your apartment smoke alarm, please report it to Maintenance right away. 

Review the fire emergency portion of your Resident Handbook. Our building is equipped with a fully automated fire sprinkler system, making the risk of widespread fire very low, but it is still good to review that information.

If you have questions about any of our safety or emergency preparedness policies, please contact the Assistant Manager. 

Posted in General Information /Safety /

ASK THE EXPERT // Winter Weather Safety

We are happy to announce a new, regular safety column in the newsletter. Please take time to read, they contain useful information and reminders.  We hope you find it beneficial!  Here are a few things to keep in mind as the snow continues to fall and the temperatures keep us guessing.  

As snow gets tracked inside, it increases the risk of wet floors.  Watch for wet floors and wet floor warning signs and avoid those areas. Please wipe/remove as much snow as possible from your feet and any mobility device before entering the building. Staff work hard to ensure sidewalks and parking areas around the building are free from snow and ice. However, please remember icy conditions can develop very quickly, so there may be ice on sidewalks and parking areas.  

DO  

· Make sure you know the weather beforehand 

· Dress appropriately in layers, insulated water resistant footwear with non-skid soles, with exposed skin covered 

· Stick to flat, even, clear, plowed sidewalks and areas 

· Keep an eye out for ice, which can be hard to see 

· Use extra caution if you are using a mobility device, and make sure canes and walkers have been adapted for the weather  

· Carry your phone with you  

DON’T  

· Go out if the temperature is very cold or in inclement weather  

· Go out at night  

· Go out alone  

· Stay outside too long  

· Go near, and never go out on bodies of water, such as the nearby Crystal Lake – they are not safe in winter  

Cheers to a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!  

Posted in General Information /Safety /