Volume 8 Number 6 May 2011 Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay current.

Lead Story Inside this month’s issue of Comfort Zone: damage not glamourous (Click on the page numbers to go directly to the section) „ Blame it on Coco. Coco Chanel, that is. Making Headlines n the 1920s, this famous fashion Pages 2-3 designer turned suntanned skin „ New therapy for MS into a fashion statement. I „ Babies burdened by rotovirus Sunbathing became a ritual, and people flocked to the beaches to „ Symptoms of glaucoma "catch some rays." This ritual „ What’s causing my headache continues today. Tanned skin is still seen as fashionable, healthy, and Tips For Supervisors luxurious. In 1962, SPF rated was Pages 4-5 introduced. In 1971, Mattel „ Restless nights, restless days introduced Malibu , which had „ Solidify your soft skills tanned skin, , and her very „ Safety starts on day one own bottle of sun tanning . In „ Swallowing disorders 1978, tanning beds appeared. In the US, the tanning business is now a five-billion dollar industry. There are Health & Safety Round up an estimated 50,000 outlets for before the age of 20. Most UVB rays Page 6 tanning. However, although tanned are absorbed by the , but „ Vehicle ejections kill skin is still a status symbol, awareness enough of these rays pass through to „ Communication disorders of what the sun’s rays can do to our cause serious damage. skin is very important. UVC rays are the most dangerous, „ Seminars contains three types of but fortunately, these rays are blocked rays: UVA, UVB, and by the ozone layer and don't reach the Health and Safety Minute UVC. earth. To protect itself from the sun's UVA rays cause skin aging and effects, skin will increase its Pages 7-8 wrinkling and can contribute to skin production of . These cells „ Stay safe in the sun cancer, such as . Because produce the dark pigment „ Protect your child’s hearing UVA rays pass effortlessly through the called . The extra melanin „ Pet safety ozone layer, they make up the makes your skin look darker or „ Healthy kids inside and out majority of our sun exposure. Tanning suntanned. In some cases, the sun beds use UVA rays as well as UVB causes an uneven increase in melanin „ Brace your motorcycle for the rays. production or in the number of road UVB rays can also be dangerous, melanocytes, which produces irregular „ Sunglasses protect your eyes causing , cataracts (clouding colouring or pigmentation of the skin. of the eye lens), and effects on the The sun can also cause a permanent Safety Meeting immune system. They can also stretching (dilation) of small blood contribute to . Melanoma, vessels, giving your skin a mottled, Pages 9-11 the most dangerous form of skin reddish appearance. This month: cancer, is thought to be associated Be safe around water with severe UVB sunburns that occur Please turn to page 3 www.skilven.com page 2

Making Headlines First oral treatment for MS approved in Canada (NC)-For Himani Ediriweera, a 39 “The approval of this drug is a Canadians. Though no one knows what year old from Toronto, Health Canada's significant milestone for the Canadian causes it, some research points to a approval of the first oral capsule to MS community,” says Dr. Daniel complex interplay of environmental treat her multiple sclerosis (MS) is Selchen, a neurologist from Toronto, and possibly genetic risk factors. Many good news. Ontario. “Oral therapies have been people living with MS deal with “I feel like I have my life back greatly anticipated by both patients and limited mobility, vision problems, again,” says Ediriweera, who was physicians who are eager for bladder and bowel issues. diagnosed with MS over six years ago. alternatives to injection and infusion “I have a fear of needles and taking a Up until now, all therapies available therapies. daily pill to treat my MS is a great to treat MS required daily or regular With its excellent clinical trial alternative. I have gone from having injections or infusions with deep efficacy data, along with convenience, five to six relapses per year to one or needles. this drug is welcome news for those two since I started this drug - MS no Fingolimod is the first disease seeking a new option to manage their longer has control over my life,” says modifying oral therapy developed for disease.” Ediriweera. the relapsing-remitting form of MS - Like all medications, Fingolimod has “I am not limited by the treatment the most common type of the disease potential side effects, including that I’m taking - I can be spontaneous in adults. headache, flu, diarrhea, back pain, again, I can travel, I can be the person This new treatment option offers elevated liver enzyme levels, decreased that I was before I was diagnosed.” simple once daily oral dosing in a heart rate and cough. For more information about MS and capsule, providing an efficacious and An unpredictable, often disabling the latest treatment option, please visit convenient treatment method for a disease of the central nervous system, www.mssociety.ca or speak to your complex and lifelong illness. MS affects between 55,000 and 75,000 doctor. New babies burdened by common illness in Canada (NC)-The immense responsibility of significant burden on the health care “New parents need to be aware of keeping a child safe and healthy can be system. For children with rotavirus, it’s rotavirus and the importance of daunting for parents. So when a young estimated that one in seven will seek immunization, but all children can benefit child gets sick or requires hospitalization, health care advice, one in 20 will visit an if provincial governments strongly it can be very traumatic and affect the emergency department, and one in 62 consider including these vaccines in whole family. Although many Canadian will be hospitalized. Also, since rotavirus publically funded programs,” says Dr. parents aren’t aware of it by name, one is highly contagious it is often spread to Hirotaka Yamashiro, president of the infection most babies and new parents other young patients within a hospital Pediatricians Alliance of Ontario. face is, “rotavirus.” In fact, nearly every setting and premature babies are The United States instituted a rotavirus Canadian child will be infected with particularly susceptible to infection. As vaccination program in 2006 and has rotavirus by age five. such, when rotavirus season hits in since seen a substantial decline in Rotavirus is a serious illness that Canada, usually between February and rotavirus rates in the country. As a result, usually affects children between the ages May, it consumes a significant amount of the 2007/2008 season saw a greater than of six months and two years. Its health care resources. 50 per cent decrease in rotavirus activity symptoms include severe fever, vomiting, The good news is that rotavirus can be compared with the 1991 to 2006 seasons. and diarrhea that generally last 3 to 8 prevented through an oral vaccine. It is And, there was such a reduction in days. The more serious cases of vomiting available in a two dose form, can be rotavirus activity nationally in 2009-2010 and diarrhea can result in dehydration started after six weeks of age and must be that the country never even saw the start and may require hospitalization and/or completed before eight months of age. of the rotavirus outbreak season. treatment with intravenous fluids. Unfortunately, rotavirus vaccinations are For more information on rotavirus and Not only can rotavirus be extremely not currently paid for by provincial immunization, speak with your hard on Canadian families, it also poses a universal mass vaccination programs. pediatrician or family physician.

The information presented in Comfort Zone has right to make periodic changes, additions,and President & CEO: Chris Skilton been compiled from sources believed to be deletions to these publications, and the products Sales: Art Hamilton • Alan Haycroft • reliable. However, it cannot be assumed that all and programs described in these publications Lisa Garowey • Liz Slobodin • acceptable measures are contained in this article without notice. Carol Wilkinson • Dave Grimmer nor that additional measures may not be required Comfort Zone is published monthly by Skilven Editor: Kate Peeren under particular or exceptional circumstances, or Publications Ltd. www.skilven.com. All rights Contributing Writer: Bryden Winsby your own company procedures, or by federal, reserved. © 2011. No part of this publication is to TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4800 • Fax: 1-250-487-2104 state/provincial and local law. Local, be copied without permission from the publisher Mailing Address: 101-196 Wade Ave W state/provincial and federal regulations take with exception to the safety meeting contained Penticton, British Columbia V2A 1T6 precedence over this material. We reserve the herein. www.skilven.com • [email protected] page 3 www.skilven.com

Making Headlines Sun damage not glamourous Oh my aching head Continued from page one To protect you and your family’s (NC)-Headaches affect most of us at one Sun damage of the skin, also skin from sun damage: point or another in our lives. But did you know known as photo damage can be „ Seek shade when the sun is at that there is no normal headache? They are either acute, such as a , or its highest overhead and therefore all a sign of something being not quite right with our bodies. more commonly, chronic. This is strongest (usually 10 a.m. until 4 So what are the common types of gradual changes in the skin caused p.m. headaches and what can we do about them? by sun exposure throughout your „ Cover up and shield skin from life. UV rays. Ensure that clothes will Sinus headaches Chronic photo damage results in screen out harmful UV rays by either a cosmetic change in the placing your hand inside the Spring brings out all kinds of dusts that skin’s appearance called photo garments and making sure you wreak havoc for allergy sufferers. Hay fever is aging or changes that are of can't see it through them. a common cause of what's known as the sinus medical concerns such as pre- „ Use sunscreen regularly. When headache. These headaches are typically cancerous lesions and skin cancers. looking for an appropriate characterised by pain above and below the Signs of sun damaged skin sunscreen, concentrate on the SPF eyes - in a Zorro-mask type of pattern - and include fine and coarse wrinkles. (sun protection factor) numbers on usually require an allergy medication to lessen There is a roughness to the skin the labels. the pressure and pain. and a laxity or looseness in Choose a sunscreen that states on advanced damage. the label that it protects against Tension headaches Patchy or mottled darker patches both UVA and UVB rays. In of increased pigmentation can also general, provide better "Between 80 and 90 per cent of the be seen. Sometimes these patches protection against UVB rays than headaches patients experience are tension- become irregular and produce what UVA rays, making signs of skin type," says Dr. Brian Gushaty, an Edmonton are known as . Chronic sun aging a risk even with consistent chiropractor. "A tension headache typically exposure can also produce a use of sunscreen. starts at the base of the skull and wraps to the thickened layer in the upper dermis For more information visit: front over the eyes, affecting both sides known as solar elastosis, a http://muhc.ca/newsroom/article/d evenly." yellowish chicken skin look. r-beatrice-wang-ctv Relaxation and breathing exercises can help ease your body's overall tension and reduce, if not eliminate, these headaches. Ensuring an What you should know about glaucoma ergonomic work and home environment can (NC)-Glaucoma is a progressive having a parent with glaucoma, is also go a long way to keeping your body eye condition that involves damage considered one of the primary risk relaxed. to the optic nerve. Most often, the factors of the disease. damage is caused by high pressure Other risk factors include Migraines inside the eye, but sometimes elevated pressure in the eye, people with normal eye pressure family history, and age. Migraine headaches are less common but can also develop glaucoma. Vision loss from glaucoma can can be very debilitating. They also deserve the Once you begin to lose your be controlled if detected early. attention they receive - one headache can put vision from glaucoma, it can’t be Only an eye exam from your eye your life on hold for a few hours or several restored, but further vision loss doctor can detect glaucoma before days. Migraines are responsible for more job can be controlled. vision loss begins. absenteeism and disrupted family life than any Glaucoma usually develops Glaucoma is commonly managed other headache type. slowly and painlessly, so it’s with eye drops. It is important to possible to have it and still see use your drops everyday, as To maintain optimal health and reduce the perfectly well. In fact, 250,000 prescribed by your eye doctor, likelihood of being struck down by a Canadians have glaucoma, but even if you experience no headache, ensure you get adequate rest, only half know it. Over time, symptoms. If you're living with exercise regularly, and drink plenty of water. glaucoma may cause peripheral vision loss due glaucoma, CNIB vision loss, followed by “tunnel” can help. For more information vision or blindness. about glaucoma, visit Family history, particularly www.cnib.ca. www.skilven.com page 4

A restless night Super Vision could mean a How solid are your 'soft skills?' restless day BY BRYDEN WINSBY (NC)-As many more Canadians are FOR COMFORT ZONE CHECK YOURSELF: leading a busy lifestyle, it is becoming Most managers and supervisors increasingly important to recharge with a possess the hard skills required to do Other valuable soft skills include: good night's sleep. Lack of sleep may affect their jobs, which to a great extent an individual's energy, concentration, short- mean making sure others do theirs. „ The ability to delegate. term memory, interest levels and overall Those hard skills involve technical „ The ability to teach or be a physical appearance. knowledge and ability, as well as a mentor. clear understanding of what the „ Good manners. Dr. Douglas Bradley, director of the organization expects to keep costs well „ Time management. Centre for Sleep Health and Research at below revenues. In getting the desired the Toronto General Hospital's Sleep results, bosses can be hard-nosed, at ease, even under difficult Medicine Labs, believes that both the demanding, authoritarian and often circumstances. Good communicators quality and length of sleep can make a unpleasant. Their approach is one of know how to provide constructive difference in how we function each day. He intimidation; they are perceived as feedback. When criticizing someone's offers the following tips to try at home for cold-hearted and unappreciative performance, they focus not on the people struggling to fall asleep: taskmasters. individual, but on his or her behaviour. Bullies. An example is the so-called „ Have the right mattress. Your mattress While still effective in some “sandwich” method. The conversation plays a significant role in a good night's instances, such characters are also very begins with a positive message, sleep. It has to be comfortable. Many old-school. Studies consistently show followed by discussion of what people don't realize how much their that the best leaders, at almost any behavioral changes are needed, and mattress can affect their sleep quality. level, have honed their soft skills - also closes with a positive message. known as interpersonal skills and Accessibility is also important. „ Ensure proper lighting. Darkness helps people skills. Willingness to make yourself available you fall and stay asleep. Block out all While these individuals might not be for one-on-one or group discussions, at external light from your bedroom. perfect in every respect, they know a time and place convenient for how to get the best from people everyone, can go a long way toward „ Improve your sleeping space. Make without resorting to threats, insults and instilling confidence and earning sure you have enough room to stretch, turn, harsh discipline. respect. and move around freely. If your partner's We’ve all seen the job ads that There are others, and there also are movement disturbs you, consider getting a require successful applicants to be personal attributes that complement a bigger mattress or one that eliminates “team players” and have good or person’s set of soft skills. These motion transfer. excellent “communication skills.” include honesty, integrity, optimism, Those terms might sound good, but are empathy and a sense of humour. „ Avoid watching television in the open to interpretation. Some people come by many of these bedroom as this can often keep you or your Do team players function as a things naturally, or seem to. bedmate up too late. cohesive, supportive group, with Often, however, it takes effort to everyone encouraged to suggest have the capacity to interact well with „ Limit caffeine and alcohol. Try to avoid change or even criticize? Or are they a people, to solve problems amicably, coffee, caffeinated teas, and alcoholic collection of obedient automatons that and to motivate consistently. beverages before bed. Drink water instead. must do as the coach tells them, Fortunately, soft skills can be without question, or be benched developed through training, reading, „ Exercise, exercise, exercise. Make permanently? observation, and probably most exercise part of your daily routine. But, And do the lines of communication important, through practice. aerobic activity completed two to three run clearly in both directions, or are Lots of it. hours before bedtime makes falling asleep employees simply required to have the A side benefit is that these skills can more difficult, so aim to exercise in the ability to spell and speak intelligently? be transferred into one’s personal life, morning or afternoon. Indeed, while soft skills are where they might be needed just as numerous, the ability to communicate much. „ Keep regular sleep hours. Wake up effectively is perhaps the cornerstone. As far as one’s career is concerned, and go to bed at the same time everyday - Most progressive organizations are though, it is good to remember the even on weekends. This will help you get looking for managerial or supervisory adage that hard skills can get you the regulate your sleep and get the same people who can listen and respond interview, but you will need soft skills amount each night. effectively and who can put employees to keep the job. page 5 www.skilven.com

Super Vision Safety starts on Day One BY BRYDEN WINSBY There is no better time to start FOR COMFORT ZONE keeping new workers safe than their CHECK YOURSELF: first day on the job, with a thorough Every year at about this time, the orientation that goes well beyond Here are some more tips for message goes out: Many young people introducing people and explaining keeping new workers safe: have left the classroom for the where the washrooms and emergency „ Avoid giving young people jobs workforce, temporarily or exits are located. that require a high degree of skill or permanently, and special attention is From a safety perspective, the responsibility. needed to keep them healthy and safe. orientation (taking more than one day „ Do not require young people to The message is worth repeating, if necessary) should include perform critical or risky tasks. because too often it is ignored - and explanation of the organization's „ Make sure all new workers are not just by those young people, dozens policies and procedures, and what the given complete job instruction and of whom die annually in Canada from new hire can expect if these are monitor them to ensure things are job-related injuries. Thousands more violated. being done correctly. are hurt badly. This information often forms an „ Encourage all new workers to ask Employers and supervisors have a important part of employee questions when they are unsure moral and legal responsibility to handbooks, but do not just give these about procedures. ensure a safe, healthy workplace. out and expect them to be read. Take Statistics show that the first month time to review key components. „ Encourage all new workers to ask on the job is often the most dangerous Aside from general health and safety questions when they are unsure about for workers under the age of 25. The topics that affect all employees, procedures or possible hazards. reasons should be obvious. They have specific training will be required for „ Be accessible when questions or not had adequate training, particularly particular job assignments given to concerns are raised. with regard to safety procedures and new workers. Managers and supervisors must also equipment. They will need to know what hazards remember that an essential part of They are unable to identify hazards can be expected, what control their health and safety role is to lead or know what to do in the event of an measures are in place (including by example. emergency. proper use of personal protective If they fail to do so, the double They take risks. They are reluctant to clothing and equipment), and what to standard becomes obvious, and could ask questions of co-workers or do if something goes wrong. encourage new workers to bend or supervisors. Here are some more tips for keeping break rules, with potentially tragic While young people are among the new workers safe: consequences. most vulnerable, there are no age „ Avoid giving young people jobs From their standpoint, new workers limits to safety. New workers also can that require a high degree of skill or must appreciate that they have a be several decades beyond responsibility. responsibility to keep themselves and adolescence. „ Do not require young people to other safe by following rules and They may be experienced in many perform critical or risky tasks. procedures. respects, but find themselves trying to „ Make sure all new workers are They must take all training seriously function in unfamiliar surroundings, given complete job instruction and and be prepared to report unsafe with equipment they have never used monitor them to ensure things are behavior or conditions. Right from before. being done correctly. Day One. Feeding or swallowing disorders are serious business Monday, May 9 is Swallowing stroke). Untreated feeding and Awareness Day. Feeding or swallowing swallowing disorders can lead to disorders (also known as dysphagia) malnutrition, dehydration, pneumonia, affect infants, young children, adults and delayed growth and development, social the elderly in different ways and for a difficulties, airway obstruction or even number of reasons (reflux, down death. syndrome, cleft lip and palate, You can find out more or find a prematurity, cerebral palsy, professional near you online at developmental delay, brain injury, www.speechandhearing.ca. www.skilven.com page 6

HEALTH & SAFETY ROUNDUP Seminar Vehicle ejections kill, so buckle up (NC)-Do you always buckle up? a fatal decision,” said Mauro Convertini, Whether in the back seat of a full car, in insurance expert at Aviva Canada. “It’s a listings a quick cab ride, or behind the wheel, are fact, seatbelts save lives and greatly The following is a cross-section you always clicking your safety belt reduce serious injury. Even for the simple of dates of health and safety shut? reason that they keep passengers from seminars taking place nationally We aren’t all doing it - according to being ejected from the vehicle, which and internationally. Would you like Transport Canada, some Canadians are increases chances of fatality.” to promote your event? Email us still riding in their vehicles without a Consider the following tips the next time at [email protected] seatbelt. you buckle up: Rehabilitative care for someone who has „ Don’t share: A seat belt is only May 2-6 been injured in a vehicle crash takes effective when one person is using it. North American Occupational months or years, not to mention the toll a This is true for both children and adults. Safety and Health (NAOSH) serious injury can take on your life, as „ Use the shoulder belt as a shoulder Week well as those of your family and friends. belt: This belt should not be worn under But not wearing your seatbelt also puts the arm but rather across the chest. NAOSH Week is led by the more than your safety at risk - being „ Tighten across the hips: Tighten the Canadian Society of Safety caught unbuckled nets you a fine up to belt to ensure that it does not fall or slip Engineering (CSSE) in partnership multiple hundred dollars, demerit points if the driver needs to make a sudden stop. with the Canadian Centre for on your driving record and may result in Buckling up for every car ride means Occupational Health and Safety a boost to your insurance rates. obeying Canadian law, reducing the (CCOHS), Human Resources and “Beyond being a choice that is against chance of serious injury or death, and Skills Development Canada the law, deciding not to buckle up can be makes you a safer driver. (HRSDC), and Threads of Life, in concert with the American Society of Communication disorders affect millions of Canadians Safety Engineers (ASSE) and partners in Mexico. (NC)-Imagine going through life not having some type of behavioural being able to understand what people are problem. They’re seen as either Threads of life is a national saying to you, having to constantly ask uncooperative or withdrawn, or registered charity dedicated to people to repeat themselves, not knowing unpredictable and hostile. This can be supporting families along their what's expected of you or how to behave. especially true with children. In many journey of healing who have Imagine what it's like when you can't cases, this kind of behaviour is often suffered from a workplace fatality, express your feelings to your family, merely the symptom of a more profound life-altering illness or occupational friends or, especially, strangers. Imagine hearing or speech disorder and unless disease. Their mission is to help the sense of isolation, frustration, anger. these individuals are referred to a hearing families heal through a community For millions of Canadians who live with or speech specialist, the problem can go of support and to promote the a speech, language or hearing difficulty, undetected and untreated. elimination of life-altering workplace these experiences can be an everyday Daycare workers, teachers, social injuries, illnesses and deaths. occurrence. But it doesn’t have to be that workers, public health nurses and doctors www.threadsoflife.ca way. need to understand that behavioural The ability to hear, understand and be problems that appear to be purely The success of NAOSH Week is understood is fundamental to our psychological can often be traced to a rooted in a community-based development as productive citizens and hearing or speech disorder. Call in the approach. Across the country, when hearing and speech problems go experts-they know what to look for-the NAOSH Week events and activities undetected and untreated, the results can subtle signs that are so often missed by are coordinated by local, provincial be severe. According to the Canadian professionals in other disciplines. and/or regional committees, Association of Speech-Language CASLPA acknowledges that there are comprised primarily of volunteers, Pathologists and Audiologists currently an insufficient number of the who share a focus and vision of (CASLPA), the organization that professionals that are needed to provide safer workplaces and communities. represents 5,700 speech, language and Canadians with an adequate level of hearing professionals across Canada, service. Wait times can be long, but For more information visit dealing with this crisis is an up-hill battle. CASLPA has released national [email protected]. One of the biggest challenges is getting recommended wait times for public referrals-being put in touch with people reference. who need help. Often, individuals with You can find them at hearing or speech disorders are labeled as www.speechandhearing.ca. www.skilven.com

Health and Safety Minute Safety first tips for all summer equipment (NC)-Summer and sports go hand in hand. Kids across the country are lacing up their cleats to hit the field and tuning up Follow these steps their bikes to hit the road. When it comes when bringing home to sports or playing in the sun - safety comes first. You wouldn't let your son or a new pet daughter play soccer or ride (NC)-Bringing a new puppy or kitten into without a helmet, so why would you let your home is one of life's highlights. them head outdoors without proper sun "Getting the relationship with a new pet off protection? to the right start requires equal parts care, Consider the following tips to ensure fun nurturing and guidance," says veterinarian in the summer sun no matter what sport should use sunscreen no matter what time Dr. David Cook. "All of these things you play: you go out to enjoy the day. contribute to the physical and emotional „ Apply sunscreen at least 20 to 30 „ Protect your child's skin with well-being of your pet." Dr. Cook suggests minutes before going outdoors. If you can sunscreens designed specifically for the pet owners follow these five steps to build a do it an hour ahead of time, that's even sensitive skin of babies and kids. healthy foundation with their new puppy or better. „ Wear sunscreen even if you are only kitten. „ Be sure to choose a sunscreen that planning to drive from one indoor location offers broad spectrum protection, which to another. UVA rays can penetrate glass. Step One: Pet proof your home - Before means it protects from both UVA and UVB Commonly forgotten exposures include the bringing your new pet home, make sure it rays. left arm that sits on the car door ledge won't be able to get at string, ribbon, yarn, „ Don't forget to wear protection on when driving, and the rays that warm your small household items or medication that cloudy days as well as sunny ones. UVB face through the sunroof. can be swallowed. Some houseplants can rays may be partially blocked by the „ Sunscreen isn't the only form of be toxic for pets if ingested, and should grayness, but UVA rays are not. protection from the sun. Wearing a hat, therefore be moved to a safe location. „ Know that the sun's rays are strongest or even using an between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Protect can help prevent harmful damage Step Two: Choose the right food - yourself appropriately. Also know that you to your skin and help avoid a sunburn. Make sure to feed your pet a food that is appropriate for his or her life stage, starting Protect your child from hearing damage with a pet food precisely formulated for puppies and/or kittens. (NC)-The Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Step Three: Housetrain your pet - Train Audiologists (CASLPA) advises parents and your puppy by routinely taking him to the other consumers to be cautious when desired area and allowing him to sniff purchasing toys for their children. Products around. Set a kitten's litter box up in a emitting loud sounds/noise have the convenient location and keep it clean. potential to harm hearing if held too closely „ Limit exposure. to the ears and face, and this can lead to „ Try out the toy before making a Step Four: Encourage positive serious communication and learning purchase. behaviour - Reward your puppy with treats difficulties in the future. Personal listening „ Teach children the proper way to play immediately following good behaviour. devices such as MP3 players, popular with with their toys - at arm's length. Never swat, spank, shake or yell at your today's teens, are also cause for concern if „ Opt for quiet items (books/games) that puppy or kitten or engage in behaviour that utilized for extended periods of time at loud target language and literacy skills. could cause them to be frightened of you. volume. As a rule of thumb, if you have to raise These products have the potential to harm your voice above the noise level of a toy to Step Five: Be a responsible pet owner - children's hearing if they are not used as be heard, then the noise is too loud and Schedule regular visits with your intended. Audiologists recommend parents could be causing damage to your child's veterinarian for immunizations and and consumers follow these safety tips: hearing. Being an informed consumer and examinations and to ensure the optimal „ Choose items with an on/off button and making informed choices can help protect health of your pet. a volume control. your child's hearing for life. You can find more information about The material contained in this document has been prepared from sources believed to be accurate and reliable. Application of this information to a specific worksite should be reviewed by a safety puppy and kitten care and nutrition at professional. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at his/her own risk and facebook.com/sciencedietcanada assumes any and all liability arising therefrom. Specific medical advice should be obtained through consultation with a physician or other trained health care practitioner. www.skilven.com

Health and Safety Minute

Healthy kids inside and out (NC)-Winter is finally over and the sound of kids playing in the neighbourhood is starting to fill the air. Bike rides, shooting 'hoops', or playground fun are just some of the ways kids can become active in the spring and summer. It's a good thing too, because recent reports show that Canadian kids just aren't getting enough exercise. Kids should get at least 60 Bracing your bike minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise a to head out on the day, according to the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology. highway "Healthy, physically active kids more likely to (NC)-As our days slowly warm up, be academically motivated, alert, and „ Development of healthy lifestyle habits; motorcycle owners are getting their successful," said Howie Dayton, chair of the and wheels out of hibernation. But before Ontario Task Group on Access to Recreation „ Learning that physical activity can be fun. revving the engine, it's important that for Low Income Families. "Whatever their If costs are a barrier to organized sport or bikers take some time to get their fitness personality, all kids can be physically fit. recreation, there are various kinds of charitable motorcycles ready for the new season. A parent's positive attitude will steer them in the programs that can help, like the Canadian Tire right direction." Jumpstart program. It is a national charitable Preparing your bike is not only Consider enrolling your child in an organized program that covers registration, equipment important from a maintenance sport or recreational activity, like soccer, and/or transportation costs to help financially perspective, but also to make sure that baseball, swimming or ball hockey. The benefits disadvantaged kids participate in organized riding doesn't get too rough on the wallet. of participating in organized play are often sport and recreation and has helped over lifelong: 315,000 kids since 2005. Learn more about the Before you head out onto the highway, „ Increased self-esteem and self-confidence; program online at here are a couple of preparations to „ Discovery of leadership skills; www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart. consider: „ Improved school performance;

„ Test your equipment: Safely reinstall the battery and examine all fluid Sunglasses are more than a levels. Check for cracked tires, broken parts or leaking oil. Set the tire pressures fashion statement back to riding specs. (NC)-Sunglasses are widely considered a "As Canadians start spending more time wardrobe essential along with shoes and outdoors in the spring and summer, sun „ Take it slow: Your biking skills will handbags, but it's easy to forget they also protection for the eyes should be a top priority be rusty and road surfaces will be serve a more important purpose: to protect our right next to sunscreen and a hat," says Dr. different than your last ride. Sand and salt eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. Gordon. deposits on the edge and corners of the "UV rays have a cumulative effect over time Children in particular need protection as their roads may be hazardous. and can lead to serious eye diseases that don't eye tissues are more susceptible to sun „ Install an anti-theft device: There always have a cure. This is why the best line of damage and they tend to be outdoors more are a range of anti-theft devices designed defence is prevention through quality often. for motorcycles and some insurance sunglasses that block out these rays," says Dr. In celebration of Vision Health Month in May, companies will offer you a discount if you Keith Gordon, vice president of research and CNIB is calling on all Canadians to don their have an approved one installed. service quality at CNIB. favourite shades on May 26 to help raise "UV rays can be present even on cloudy days awareness about the importance of eye health „ Check your insurance: Follow up or in the winter, so it's important to wear and raise funds to support vital CNIB services with your insurance broker to ensure you sunglasses all year round." in their communities. have the most comprehensive coverage. When it comes to choosing the right pair of For more information on how to participate in Ask about discounts for bikers with safe shades, CNIB recommends looking for ones CNIB's Shades of Fun Day, please visit driving records. with at least 99 per cent protection from both www.shadesoffunday.ca. UVA and UVB rays. SAFETY MEETING Read this part of the meeting aloud Being safe when around water

Today’s safety meeting is about water safety. children underwater. Sometimes, children drown because they get stuck in a railing or between a ladder and the pool wall. As the warmer weather approaches, so does our need to stay cool. That often means a trip to the local swimming hole, be 7) Watch out for hazards. Never play around suction lines that the backyard pool, a public swimming facility or the or pool drains. Never put your head underwater in a beach. whirlpool or hot tub because the suction lines can catch your hair and hold your head under water until you drown. Unfortunately we tend to focus on cooling off, and not on the serious consequences being in the water can have. If we 8) Beaches have so many hidden dangers, such as are not careful around water, terrible events can occur, and underwater logs, sudden dropoffs and tidal currents. Stay with the last thing anyone wants is a fun day at the beach to turn your children. Obey all posted warnings about currents or into a horrible tragedy. dangerous areas, and ask other people if they know of any trouble spots in the area. Here are 13 water safety tips to keep in mind. 9) Never let children play in hot tubs. A quick soak is OK, 1) Supervise children at all times. Avoid leaving children but the hot water can quickly affect a child's small body. alone with small portable pools or water buckets, fountains and barrels. A small child can drown in as little as one inch of 10) Young children should always be accompanied by their water in just a few seconds. parents in the pool.

2) Build a four-sided fence to surround all pools, including 11) Make sure there is always a life-saving floatation device inflatable pools, with a self-closing and self-latching gate. handy near the pool. Pool fencing can prevent seven out of 10 drownings among children. Check your local bylaws for actual fence 12) The pool cover must be completely removed before any specifications. swimmer enters the water.

3) Get information about the local currents and never swim 13) Play safely. Don’t push or jump on others. Even the where warning flags are flying. friendliest dunking game is dangerous.

4) Swim only where you feel comfortable. At beaches, swim parallel to the shore, and stay inside roped-off areas. Thanks for your attention today.

5) Never swim alone. Use the buddy system and make sure you watch out for each other. Even when a lifeguard is around, it is best to have a buddy.

6) Watch out for underwater traps. Some railings or ladders in pools or hot tubs have small spaces which can trap

Comfort Zone is published once a month by Skilven Publications Inc. www.skilven.com ©2011 Skilven Publications Inc. Subscribers are allowed to make copies of this document for distribution within their location only. For more copies call 1-888-655-4800. The information presented herein has been compiled from various sources believed to be reliable; however it cannot be assumed that all acceptable safety measures are listed. While every effort is made to ensure that information and recommendations contained in this publication are the best current opinions on the topic, no guarantee or warranty is made by Skilven Publications Inc. as to the absolute correctness or sufficiency of the content. Distribute to meeting attendees SAFETY MEETING Keep this handout for handy reference. Being safe when around water

Share these water safety tips from the Canadian Red Cross with your family:

Diving:

Neck and back injuries are common after diving incidents and can result in permanent paralysis.

„ One of the major causes of spinal injuries is “drinking and diving”. „ The majority of backyard pools are NOT designed for diving. „ Never dive into above ground pools. „ Ensure water depth is at least 10 feet deep. Remember the depth of lakes or oceans can change due to tides or seasons. „ Ensure water is deep enough for the entire path of the dive, and that no rocks or debris are in the way. The length of a typical dive depends on a variety of factors, such as height of dive and size of diver.

Swimming:

„ Learn proper swimming and safety techniques by enrolling children in water safety classes. „ Be aware of your limitations. Don't take unnecessary risks. „ When swimming in the ocean, be aware of the tides and currents and keep an eye on the shifting weather patterns. „ Know the signs of hypothermia. „ Supervise children at all times. „ Fence backyard pools and ensure gates are self-locking. „ Communicate and post pool rules. Keep emergency equipment and first aid kits close at hand.

Comfort Zone is published once a month by Skilven Publications Inc. www.skilven.com ©2011 Skilven Publications Inc. Subscribers are allowed to make copies of this document for distribution within their location only. For more copies call 1-888-655-4800. The information presented herein has been compiled from various sources believed to be reliable; however it cannot be assumed that all acceptable safety measures are listed. While every effort is made to ensure that information and recommendations contained in this publication are the best current opinions on the topic, no guarantee or warranty is made by Skilven Publications Inc. as to the absolute correctness or sufficiency of the content. Attendance sheet SAFETY MEETING

Being safe when around water

Meeting date: ______Have meeting attendees sign below: ______Meeting leader: ______Meeting Quiz:

1.Backyard pools are usually not meant for diving. ______True False ______

2. You should never swim beyond your ability. ______True False ______3. It’s impossible to drown in three inches of water. True ______False

4. It is important to keep a constant eye on kids when ______around water. True ______False ______5. You should never put your head underwater in a whirlpool. True ______False ______6. It’s not a good idea to jump on people or push them down when playing in the water. True. ______False ______

Comfort Zone is published once a month by Skilven Publications Inc. www.skilven.com ©2011 Skilven

6. True 6.

Publications Inc. Subscribers are allowed to make copies of this document for distribution within their location only. 2.True

5. True 5. For more copies call 1-888-655-4800. The information presented herein has been compiled from various sources 1.True

believed to be reliable; however it cannot be assumed that all acceptable safety measures are listed. While every

4. True 4.

effort is made to ensure that information and recommendations contained in this publication are the best current quiz: meeting

3 .False 3 opinions on the topic, no guarantee or warranty is made by Skilven Publications Inc. as to the absolute safety to Answers correctness or sufficiency of the content.