/PRNewswire/ -- Attorney Stuart H. Smith, representing the United Commercial Fishermen's Association, the Louisiana Environmental Action Network, public and private entities, and citizens harmed by the BP oil catastrophe, today issued this statement:
"Independent water and seafood testing and analyses by Gulf Oil Disaster Recovery experts reveal that highly toxic chemicals remain in the water and food chain. These toxins pose a significant risk to marine reproduction and human consumption of Gulf seafood.
"The greatest concern is the presence of chemicals known as PAHs (or polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons), which have carcinogenic properties. Our studies have shown that PAHs are present in shrimp from the impacted Gulf areas of the spill at 10 times the levels found in shrimp from inland, low-impacted areas.
"Further, BP's use of dispersants at 5000 feet below the sea surface caused PAHs and other toxic substances to remain in the seawater. This means biodegradation of the toxins in crude oil is greatly reduced. It could be at least 8 months before the toxic soup we are seeing in the Gulf experiences significant biodegradation, due to low temperatures, lack of sunlight, and other factors.
"Moreover, we have major concerns about FDA disclosures regarding seafood safety. The decisions to re-open commercial fishing in selected off-shore areas affects thousands of seafood consumers of shrimp in Louisiana and Mississippi. However, these decisions were based upon as few as a single shrimp sample from Louisiana offshore waters, and two shrimp samples from Mississippi offshore waters (rendered as composites from 12 shrimp), with detectable PAH levels present in all shrimp samples.
"We vigorously refute FDA claims that they have performed sufficient sampling to declare shrimp from this area safe for consumption. The result may have been for state authorities to issue premature shrimp harvesting area re-openings, based on flawed FDA recommendations. Given the potential public health issues at stake, this is a major cause for concern.
"Therefore, I am releasing several statements by toxicologist Dr. William Sawyer, as well as supporting material, which address these issues in greater detail. Official documents from FDA confirm that the recommendations to re-open selected areas for commercial harvesting were based on insufficient samples for state authorities to render responsible decisions. A thorough review of all available FDA test results to date further confirm our findings."
-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage
Showing posts with label safety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label safety. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Carbon Monoxide and Home Fire Risks Are Heating up This Winter
“Space heaters, generators and other alternative heating solutions offer cost-effective ways to keep your family warm throughout the winter without heating the whole house, allowing you to lower your thermostat to reduce your energy bills”
(BUSINESS WIRE)--With frigid temperatures and winter storms blanketing communities across the United States, the national nonprofit Home Safety Council and Lowe’s are encouraging families to keep safety top of mind when heating the home this winter. Following safe heating practices will protect homes against two of the most common winter safety hazards: fires and carbon monoxide (CO).
The Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in America™ report revealed 67 percent of American households use fuel-burning appliances and equipment, such as gas fireplaces, wood stoves and kerosene heaters, to keep their loved ones warm during winter months. When using such products, be sure to follow all the manufacturers’ instructions and install a working CO monitor that will detect and alert your family when dangerous levels of the deadly—and odorless—gas are present.
“In January and February, fires caused by heating appliances overtake cooking fires as the leading cause of home fires, and carbon monoxide risks also rise as families turn to alternative heating solutions to keep warm,” said Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council. “To protect against fire, it is critical that families check all heat sources throughout their home to make sure they are not too close to anything that can burn. To be safe from CO poisoning, have all fuel-burning appliances inspected and cleaned by a professional, and install at least one CO detector to alert you to dangerous levels of the deadly gas in your home.”
An alarming 59 percent of American households have not installed a CO detector, and many other homes do not have a working CO detector due to missing or dead batteries. The start of 2010 marks the perfect opportunity to check the batteries in CO monitors and smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly.
“Space heaters, generators and other alternative heating solutions offer cost-effective ways to keep your family warm throughout the winter without heating the whole house, allowing you to lower your thermostat to reduce your energy bills,” said Eric Sowder, Lowe’s senior vice president of merchandising over outdoor living. “Many products have built-in safety features like automatic shutoffs, anti-tipping devices and heat guards, but be sure to follow all manufacturers’ instructions for use and placement of heating devices to avoid serious home injuries and help you rest easy throughout the winter.”
The Home Safety Council and Lowe’s offer the following tips to help warm up your home while preventing fire and CO dangers this winter.
Portable Space Heaters
* Make sure your heater has been tested for safety. Look on the bottom for a label such as ETL, UL or CSA.
* Place space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, people, pets and curtains.
* There should always be an adult in the room when a space heater is on.
* Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.
* Never use space heaters to dry clothing or blankets.
Prevent CO Dangers
* Install at least one CO alarm near sleeping areas.
* Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up your home’s central heating system and repair leaks or other problems.
* Keep gas appliances properly adjusted and serviced.
* Never use an oven or range to heat your home.
* Never use a gas or charcoal grill inside your home or in a closed garage.
Fireplaces and Wood Stoves
* Burn only seasoned hardwood like oak, ash or maple. Do not burn trash, cardboard boxes or Christmas trees because these items burn unevenly, and may contain poisons or cause a home fire.
* Have a professional chimney sweep inspect chimneys every year.
* Open flues before fireplaces are used.
* Use sturdy screens or glass doors to keep embers inside fireplaces.
Generator Safety
* Always read the Owner’s Manual and instructions for your generator.
* Carefully follow all instructions and warnings in order to safely start and operate the generator. Do not cut corners when it comes to safety.
* Permanently installed automatic standby generators are the safest way to provide backup power to your home.
* Portable generators will also provide electricity for your home when the power goes out. But you have to know how to use them safely.
* Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide. They should always be used outdoors and placed away from open windows.
* Never use a portable generator indoors or in any enclosed space, such as a garage.
* Be careful when you refuel generators to avoid starting a fire or getting burned.
* Be sure the generator is connected correctly.
* Never try to power the house wiring by “backfeeding” the generator into a wall outlet. This can put utility workers and neighbors in danger.
* After starting a generator wait 10 seconds for the power to stabilize. Then plug in your appliances. This helps avoid electrical shocks.
For more information and resources on how to stay safe during the winter season, visit www.mysafehome.org, and for tips on saving money and energy, visit lowes.com/energy.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage
(BUSINESS WIRE)--With frigid temperatures and winter storms blanketing communities across the United States, the national nonprofit Home Safety Council and Lowe’s are encouraging families to keep safety top of mind when heating the home this winter. Following safe heating practices will protect homes against two of the most common winter safety hazards: fires and carbon monoxide (CO).
The Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in America™ report revealed 67 percent of American households use fuel-burning appliances and equipment, such as gas fireplaces, wood stoves and kerosene heaters, to keep their loved ones warm during winter months. When using such products, be sure to follow all the manufacturers’ instructions and install a working CO monitor that will detect and alert your family when dangerous levels of the deadly—and odorless—gas are present.
“In January and February, fires caused by heating appliances overtake cooking fires as the leading cause of home fires, and carbon monoxide risks also rise as families turn to alternative heating solutions to keep warm,” said Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council. “To protect against fire, it is critical that families check all heat sources throughout their home to make sure they are not too close to anything that can burn. To be safe from CO poisoning, have all fuel-burning appliances inspected and cleaned by a professional, and install at least one CO detector to alert you to dangerous levels of the deadly gas in your home.”
An alarming 59 percent of American households have not installed a CO detector, and many other homes do not have a working CO detector due to missing or dead batteries. The start of 2010 marks the perfect opportunity to check the batteries in CO monitors and smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly.
“Space heaters, generators and other alternative heating solutions offer cost-effective ways to keep your family warm throughout the winter without heating the whole house, allowing you to lower your thermostat to reduce your energy bills,” said Eric Sowder, Lowe’s senior vice president of merchandising over outdoor living. “Many products have built-in safety features like automatic shutoffs, anti-tipping devices and heat guards, but be sure to follow all manufacturers’ instructions for use and placement of heating devices to avoid serious home injuries and help you rest easy throughout the winter.”
The Home Safety Council and Lowe’s offer the following tips to help warm up your home while preventing fire and CO dangers this winter.
Portable Space Heaters
* Make sure your heater has been tested for safety. Look on the bottom for a label such as ETL, UL or CSA.
* Place space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, people, pets and curtains.
* There should always be an adult in the room when a space heater is on.
* Turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.
* Never use space heaters to dry clothing or blankets.
Prevent CO Dangers
* Install at least one CO alarm near sleeping areas.
* Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up your home’s central heating system and repair leaks or other problems.
* Keep gas appliances properly adjusted and serviced.
* Never use an oven or range to heat your home.
* Never use a gas or charcoal grill inside your home or in a closed garage.
Fireplaces and Wood Stoves
* Burn only seasoned hardwood like oak, ash or maple. Do not burn trash, cardboard boxes or Christmas trees because these items burn unevenly, and may contain poisons or cause a home fire.
* Have a professional chimney sweep inspect chimneys every year.
* Open flues before fireplaces are used.
* Use sturdy screens or glass doors to keep embers inside fireplaces.
Generator Safety
* Always read the Owner’s Manual and instructions for your generator.
* Carefully follow all instructions and warnings in order to safely start and operate the generator. Do not cut corners when it comes to safety.
* Permanently installed automatic standby generators are the safest way to provide backup power to your home.
* Portable generators will also provide electricity for your home when the power goes out. But you have to know how to use them safely.
* Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide. They should always be used outdoors and placed away from open windows.
* Never use a portable generator indoors or in any enclosed space, such as a garage.
* Be careful when you refuel generators to avoid starting a fire or getting burned.
* Be sure the generator is connected correctly.
* Never try to power the house wiring by “backfeeding” the generator into a wall outlet. This can put utility workers and neighbors in danger.
* After starting a generator wait 10 seconds for the power to stabilize. Then plug in your appliances. This helps avoid electrical shocks.
For more information and resources on how to stay safe during the winter season, visit www.mysafehome.org, and for tips on saving money and energy, visit lowes.com/energy.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Follow us on Twitter: @GAFrontPage
Monday, December 28, 2009
Alcohol and Fireworks Don't Mix! Warns National Council on Fireworks Safety
/PRNewswire/ -- New Year's Eve is a wonderful time to celebrate the start of a new year. And fireworks are a wonderful way of celebrating. However, all too often, New Year's Eve festivities involve excess alcohol. Just like driving and drinking do not mix, shooting consumer fireworks and drinking absolutely do not mix.
If you are at a party for New Year's Eve where consumer fireworks are being shot, make sure that there is a designated shooter who has not been drinking any alcohol. Even a small quantity of alcohol (one beer, a glass of wine) can impair one's judgment and ability to properly set up and use consumer fireworks safely.
Nancy Blogin, President of the National Council on Fireworks Safety, notes: "Each New Year's Eve, consumers are injured because their judgment has been impaired by beer, wine, or another alcoholic drink. The lesson is simple: Alcohol and fireworks don't mix."
In addition, the National Council reminds shooters of consumer fireworks of these other important safety tips:
-- Only use fireworks outdoors.
-- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
-- Never give fireworks to young children.
-- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
-- Always have a bucket of water, or water hose, nearby.
And remember, ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS DON'T MIX!
The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose sole mission is to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. For a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips and the Council's safety videos, please visit http://www.fireworkssafety.org/.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
If you are at a party for New Year's Eve where consumer fireworks are being shot, make sure that there is a designated shooter who has not been drinking any alcohol. Even a small quantity of alcohol (one beer, a glass of wine) can impair one's judgment and ability to properly set up and use consumer fireworks safely.
Nancy Blogin, President of the National Council on Fireworks Safety, notes: "Each New Year's Eve, consumers are injured because their judgment has been impaired by beer, wine, or another alcoholic drink. The lesson is simple: Alcohol and fireworks don't mix."
In addition, the National Council reminds shooters of consumer fireworks of these other important safety tips:
-- Only use fireworks outdoors.
-- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
-- Never give fireworks to young children.
-- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
-- Always have a bucket of water, or water hose, nearby.
And remember, ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS DON'T MIX!
The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose sole mission is to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. For a full list of consumer fireworks safety tips and the Council's safety videos, please visit http://www.fireworkssafety.org/.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Monday, December 14, 2009
Twelve Days of Holiday Safety From the American Red Cross
/PRNewswire/ -- With last-minute gifts to buy, social events to attend and family and friends to visit while the weather outside is frightful, the American Red Cross has 12 days of health and safety tips to make the holiday season safe, happy and bright.
1. Prepare your vehicle for traveling to grandmother's house. Make an emergency kit and include items such as blankets or sleeping bags, jumper cables, fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type), compass and road maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares, tow rope.
2. Drive your sleigh and reindeer safely. Avoid driving in a storm, but if you must, keep your gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, route and when you expect to arrive.
3. Help prevent the spread of the flu. Wash hands with soap and water as often as possible, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Use sanitizing wipes to disinfect hard surfaces such as airplane tray tables, luggage handles, cell phones, door handles and seat armrests.
4. Prevent hypothermia by following Santa's lead. Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, which will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. Seek medical attention immediately if you have symptoms of hypothermia, including confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering.
5. Use a Red Cross-trained babysitter when attending holiday festivities. Red Cross-certified babysitters learn to administer basic first aid; properly hold and feed a child; take emergency action when needed; monitor safe play and actively engage your child; and some may be certified in Infant and Child CPR.
6. Avoid danger while roasting chestnuts over an open fire. Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking and be alert. Keep anything flammable -- such as potholders, towels or curtains -- away from your stove top. Have a "kid-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drinks are prepared or carried.
7. Be a lifesaver during the holidays and always. The Red Cross recommends at least one person in every household should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED. Your local Red Cross chapter has conveniently scheduled courses and can have you trained and certified in a few hours.
8. Designate a driver or skip the holiday cheer. When you designate a driver who won't be drinking, you help make sure a good party doesn't turn into a tragedy. A good host ensures there are non-alcoholic beverages available for drivers. The designated driver should not drink any alcoholic beverages, not even one.
9. When the weather outside is frightful, heat your home safely. Never use your stove or oven to heat your home. Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas and test them once a month.
10. Cut down on your heating bills without being a Grinch. Get your furnace cleaned by a professional; change the filters regularly. Make sure heat vents aren't blocked by furniture. Close off any rooms you aren't using and close heat vents or turn off radiators in those rooms. Use either insulating tape or caulking strips to surround your windows and door moldings. Put up storm windows or storm doors to keep the cold out.
11. Don't move a muscle, until they buckle. Each person in your vehicle should have their seatbelts securely fastened before driving off. Ensure children are buckled up and their car seats are installed appropriately based on their age and size. Children 12 and under should always sit in the backseat.
12. Resolve to Be Red Cross Ready in the New Year. You can take one or more actions to prepare now, should you or your family face an emergency in 2010. Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday from the American Red Cross.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
1. Prepare your vehicle for traveling to grandmother's house. Make an emergency kit and include items such as blankets or sleeping bags, jumper cables, fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type), compass and road maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares, tow rope.
2. Drive your sleigh and reindeer safely. Avoid driving in a storm, but if you must, keep your gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing. Let someone know your destination, route and when you expect to arrive.
3. Help prevent the spread of the flu. Wash hands with soap and water as often as possible, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Use sanitizing wipes to disinfect hard surfaces such as airplane tray tables, luggage handles, cell phones, door handles and seat armrests.
4. Prevent hypothermia by following Santa's lead. Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, which will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. Seek medical attention immediately if you have symptoms of hypothermia, including confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering.
5. Use a Red Cross-trained babysitter when attending holiday festivities. Red Cross-certified babysitters learn to administer basic first aid; properly hold and feed a child; take emergency action when needed; monitor safe play and actively engage your child; and some may be certified in Infant and Child CPR.
6. Avoid danger while roasting chestnuts over an open fire. Stay in the kitchen while you are cooking and be alert. Keep anything flammable -- such as potholders, towels or curtains -- away from your stove top. Have a "kid-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drinks are prepared or carried.
7. Be a lifesaver during the holidays and always. The Red Cross recommends at least one person in every household should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED. Your local Red Cross chapter has conveniently scheduled courses and can have you trained and certified in a few hours.
8. Designate a driver or skip the holiday cheer. When you designate a driver who won't be drinking, you help make sure a good party doesn't turn into a tragedy. A good host ensures there are non-alcoholic beverages available for drivers. The designated driver should not drink any alcoholic beverages, not even one.
9. When the weather outside is frightful, heat your home safely. Never use your stove or oven to heat your home. Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended. Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas and test them once a month.
10. Cut down on your heating bills without being a Grinch. Get your furnace cleaned by a professional; change the filters regularly. Make sure heat vents aren't blocked by furniture. Close off any rooms you aren't using and close heat vents or turn off radiators in those rooms. Use either insulating tape or caulking strips to surround your windows and door moldings. Put up storm windows or storm doors to keep the cold out.
11. Don't move a muscle, until they buckle. Each person in your vehicle should have their seatbelts securely fastened before driving off. Ensure children are buckled up and their car seats are installed appropriately based on their age and size. Children 12 and under should always sit in the backseat.
12. Resolve to Be Red Cross Ready in the New Year. You can take one or more actions to prepare now, should you or your family face an emergency in 2010. Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday from the American Red Cross.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Saturday, December 12, 2009
ESFI Warns of Electrical Hazards Caused By Severe Winter Weather
(BUSINESS WIRE)--As communities across the United States prepare for winter, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) warns consumers to be mindful of electrical hazards that can be left behind in the aftermath of a major winter storm or disaster.
“Electrical dangers associated with downed power lines, portable generators, and submerged electrical equipment can still cause injuries and deaths once a snow or ice storm has ended,” cautions ESFI president, Brett Brenner.
ESFI recommends taking the following electrical safety precautions during severe winter weather:
Post-Disaster Safety
* After a storm, return home during daylight hours, especially if power has not been restored.
* If you smell gas, notify emergency authorities immediately. Do not turn on lights, light matches, or engage in any activity that could create a spark.
* Use caution when restoring disrupted power after a storm. Contact your utility company to report damage to any part of your electrical service.
Portable Generators
* Portable generators can be used as a source of power if power goes out during a storm and causes electrical outages.
* Do not operate a portable generator in your home, basement, or garage. Generators can very quickly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
* Be sure that the generator is dry and properly grounded. Plug appliances directly into the generator to prevent back feed along the power lines.
* Make sure that there is at least one working carbon monoxide detector in your home. Test the batteries at least twice a year, at the same time smoke detector batteries are tested.
Downed Power Lines
* Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Stay at least ten feet away from a downed power line and any nearby objects it may be touching, such as a fence or a tree limb.
* Contact your utility company immediately to report downed power lines outside your home.
* Never touch a person who is in direct or indirect contact with a downed power line. Instead, call 911 immediately.
* Never attempt to move a downed power line with another object. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth that are slightly wet can conduct electricity.
ESFI is a 501(c) (3) organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety. ESFI proudly sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May, and engages in public education campaigns throughout the year to prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. To learn more about ESFI and electrical safety visit www.electrical-safety.org.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
“Electrical dangers associated with downed power lines, portable generators, and submerged electrical equipment can still cause injuries and deaths once a snow or ice storm has ended,” cautions ESFI president, Brett Brenner.
ESFI recommends taking the following electrical safety precautions during severe winter weather:
Post-Disaster Safety
* After a storm, return home during daylight hours, especially if power has not been restored.
* If you smell gas, notify emergency authorities immediately. Do not turn on lights, light matches, or engage in any activity that could create a spark.
* Use caution when restoring disrupted power after a storm. Contact your utility company to report damage to any part of your electrical service.
Portable Generators
* Portable generators can be used as a source of power if power goes out during a storm and causes electrical outages.
* Do not operate a portable generator in your home, basement, or garage. Generators can very quickly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
* Be sure that the generator is dry and properly grounded. Plug appliances directly into the generator to prevent back feed along the power lines.
* Make sure that there is at least one working carbon monoxide detector in your home. Test the batteries at least twice a year, at the same time smoke detector batteries are tested.
Downed Power Lines
* Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Stay at least ten feet away from a downed power line and any nearby objects it may be touching, such as a fence or a tree limb.
* Contact your utility company immediately to report downed power lines outside your home.
* Never touch a person who is in direct or indirect contact with a downed power line. Instead, call 911 immediately.
* Never attempt to move a downed power line with another object. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth that are slightly wet can conduct electricity.
ESFI is a 501(c) (3) organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety. ESFI proudly sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May, and engages in public education campaigns throughout the year to prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. To learn more about ESFI and electrical safety visit www.electrical-safety.org.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Monday, November 30, 2009
Holiday Shopping Tips
This holiday season the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is reminding people that cyber criminals continue to aggressively create new ways to steal money and personal information. Scammers use many techniques to fool potential victims including fraudulent auction sales, reshipping merchandise purchased with a stolen credit card, and sale of fraudulent or stolen gift cards through auction sites at a discounted price.
Fraudulent Classified Ads or Auction Sales
Internet criminals post classified ads or auctions for products they do not have. If you receive an auction product from a merchant or retail store, rather than directly from the auction seller, the item may have been purchased with someone else's stolen credit card number. Contact the merchant to verify the account used to pay for the item actually belongs to you.
Shoppers should be cautious and not provide financial information directly to the seller, as fraudulent sellers will use this information to purchase items for their scheme from the provided financial account. Always use a legitimate payment service to protect purchases.
As for product delivery, unfamiliar Web sites or individuals selling reduced or free shipping to customers through auction sites many times are deemed to be fraudulent. In many instances, these Web sites or sellers provide shipping labels to their customers as a service. However, the delivery service providers are ultimately not being paid to deliver the package; therefore, packages shipped by the victims using these labels are intercepted by delivery service providers because they are identified as fraudulent.
Diligently check each seller's rating and feedback along with their number of sales and the dates on which feedback was posted. Be wary of a seller with 100% positive feedback, if they have a low total number of feedback postings and all feedback was posted around the same date and time.
Gift Card Scam
Be careful about purchasing gift cards from auction sites or through classified ads. If you need a gift card, it is safest to purchase it directly from the merchant or another authorized retail store. If the gift card merchant discovers the card you received from another source or auction was initially obtained fraudulently, the merchant will deactivate the gift card number and it will not be honored for purchases.
Phishing and Smishing Schemes
Be leery of e-mails or text messages you receive indicating a problem or question regarding your financial accounts. In this scam, you are directed to follow a link or call the number provided in the message to update your account or correct the problem. The link actually directs the individuals to a fraudulent Web site or message that appears legitimate where any personal information you provide, such as account number and PIN, will be stolen.
Another scam involves victims receiving an e-mail message directing the recipient to a spoofed Web site. A spoofed Web site is a fake site or copy of a real Web site and misleads the recipient into providing personal information, which is routed to the scammer's computers.
Tips
Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of cyber fraud:
* Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
* Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
* Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files
may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Virus scan the attachments
if possible.
* Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
* Always compare the link in the e-mail to the link you are actually directed to and
determine if they actually match and will lead you to a legitimate site.
* Log on directly to the official Web site for the business identified in the e-mail,
instead of "linking" to it from an unsolicited e-mail. If the e-mail appears to
be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently,
your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper
contact information.
* Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the e-mail to verify if the e-mail
is genuine.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Fraudulent Classified Ads or Auction Sales
Internet criminals post classified ads or auctions for products they do not have. If you receive an auction product from a merchant or retail store, rather than directly from the auction seller, the item may have been purchased with someone else's stolen credit card number. Contact the merchant to verify the account used to pay for the item actually belongs to you.
Shoppers should be cautious and not provide financial information directly to the seller, as fraudulent sellers will use this information to purchase items for their scheme from the provided financial account. Always use a legitimate payment service to protect purchases.
As for product delivery, unfamiliar Web sites or individuals selling reduced or free shipping to customers through auction sites many times are deemed to be fraudulent. In many instances, these Web sites or sellers provide shipping labels to their customers as a service. However, the delivery service providers are ultimately not being paid to deliver the package; therefore, packages shipped by the victims using these labels are intercepted by delivery service providers because they are identified as fraudulent.
Diligently check each seller's rating and feedback along with their number of sales and the dates on which feedback was posted. Be wary of a seller with 100% positive feedback, if they have a low total number of feedback postings and all feedback was posted around the same date and time.
Gift Card Scam
Be careful about purchasing gift cards from auction sites or through classified ads. If you need a gift card, it is safest to purchase it directly from the merchant or another authorized retail store. If the gift card merchant discovers the card you received from another source or auction was initially obtained fraudulently, the merchant will deactivate the gift card number and it will not be honored for purchases.
Phishing and Smishing Schemes
Be leery of e-mails or text messages you receive indicating a problem or question regarding your financial accounts. In this scam, you are directed to follow a link or call the number provided in the message to update your account or correct the problem. The link actually directs the individuals to a fraudulent Web site or message that appears legitimate where any personal information you provide, such as account number and PIN, will be stolen.
Another scam involves victims receiving an e-mail message directing the recipient to a spoofed Web site. A spoofed Web site is a fake site or copy of a real Web site and misleads the recipient into providing personal information, which is routed to the scammer's computers.
Tips
Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of cyber fraud:
* Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
* Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
* Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files
may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Virus scan the attachments
if possible.
* Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
* Always compare the link in the e-mail to the link you are actually directed to and
determine if they actually match and will lead you to a legitimate site.
* Log on directly to the official Web site for the business identified in the e-mail,
instead of "linking" to it from an unsolicited e-mail. If the e-mail appears to
be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently,
your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper
contact information.
* Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the e-mail to verify if the e-mail
is genuine.
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Friday, July 17, 2009
Georgia Department of Community Health Reminds Georgia Parents, Never Leave a Child Unsupervised in a Car
As temperatures increase and family schedules change, parents and caregivers should avoid leaving children unsupervised in or near vehicles.
“Even with the windows partly open temperatures in a vehicle can spike to 160 degrees Fahrenheit within a matter of minutes on a hot and humid day, and a young child can suffer from heat stroke,” said Dr. Patrick O’Neal, director of the Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response with the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). “Most of these cases are preventable.”
Children in vehicles under extreme heat conditions are vulnerable. Heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency, can occur in temperatures as low as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on humidity levels. Body temperatures higher than 105 degrees Fahrenheit can cause permanent brain damage or even death, especially among children.
Other serious injuries occur when children get entrapped in trunks or when they set a vehicle in motion leading to crashes. DCH is working alongside Safe Kids coalitions across the state to increase awareness about child safety.
“Injuries and deaths can be prevented through awareness, supervision and adult intervention such as locking doors and teaching children that vehicles are not playgrounds,” said Lisa Dawson, director of the Injury Prevention program.
Parents and caregivers can assess and revisit these recommendations:
- Make your car safer. Always keep car doors and trunks locked, even in the garage or driveway, to keep kids out. Treat it as the multi-ton, fast-moving enclosure and piece of machinery that it is. Keep the rear fold-down seats closed to prevent kids from getting into the trunk from inside the car
- Supervision is key. Even if the windows are down, never leave your child unattended in a car. Never leave your car keys where children can get them. Teach children not to play in or around cars. If a child is missing at home, check the car first, including the trunk
- Adopt safety-focused behaviors. Consider placing your purse or briefcase in the back seat as a reminder that you have your child in the car. Be sure everyone leaves the vehicle when you reach your destination
- Notification plan. Consider having your child’s teacher or childcare provider call you if your child does not arrive when expected
- Get involved if you see a child alone in a vehicle. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly as possible and call 911 or your local emergency number immediately
For more information visit:
http://www.safekidsgeorgia.org/
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---
“Even with the windows partly open temperatures in a vehicle can spike to 160 degrees Fahrenheit within a matter of minutes on a hot and humid day, and a young child can suffer from heat stroke,” said Dr. Patrick O’Neal, director of the Division of Emergency Preparedness and Response with the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). “Most of these cases are preventable.”
Children in vehicles under extreme heat conditions are vulnerable. Heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency, can occur in temperatures as low as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on humidity levels. Body temperatures higher than 105 degrees Fahrenheit can cause permanent brain damage or even death, especially among children.
Other serious injuries occur when children get entrapped in trunks or when they set a vehicle in motion leading to crashes. DCH is working alongside Safe Kids coalitions across the state to increase awareness about child safety.
“Injuries and deaths can be prevented through awareness, supervision and adult intervention such as locking doors and teaching children that vehicles are not playgrounds,” said Lisa Dawson, director of the Injury Prevention program.
Parents and caregivers can assess and revisit these recommendations:
- Make your car safer. Always keep car doors and trunks locked, even in the garage or driveway, to keep kids out. Treat it as the multi-ton, fast-moving enclosure and piece of machinery that it is. Keep the rear fold-down seats closed to prevent kids from getting into the trunk from inside the car
- Supervision is key. Even if the windows are down, never leave your child unattended in a car. Never leave your car keys where children can get them. Teach children not to play in or around cars. If a child is missing at home, check the car first, including the trunk
- Adopt safety-focused behaviors. Consider placing your purse or briefcase in the back seat as a reminder that you have your child in the car. Be sure everyone leaves the vehicle when you reach your destination
- Notification plan. Consider having your child’s teacher or childcare provider call you if your child does not arrive when expected
- Get involved if you see a child alone in a vehicle. If they are hot or seem sick, get them out as quickly as possible and call 911 or your local emergency number immediately
For more information visit:
http://www.safekidsgeorgia.org/
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
