Comfort Zone May 2024 Edition

Health and Safety / Work and Home

Zone Comfort

Have a safe and fun May long weekend

Victoria Day or National Patriotes’ Day in Quebec, is the weekend that generally celebrates the start of the summer season. It is a time to enjoy the outdoors, have a barbecue, and spend time with friends and family. But thinking about your health and safety does not have to ruin your long weekend fun.

It just means you have to be smart and careful about how you enjoy it. By taking some simple precautions, you can avoid accidents, injuries, or illnesses that could spoil your holiday. Health and safety are not only important for yourself, but also for your community and the people you care about. So, have a safe and fun May long weekend, and remember that you can still have a good time while being responsible.

If you are planning to fire up your grill for the first time this year, make sure you do it safely. Before you start, check your propane tank, hoses, and burners for any leaks, cracks, or damage. If you smell gas or see flames, turn off the gas and call a professional. Keep your grill away from any flammable materials, such as trees, fences, or furniture. Never leave your grill unattended and keep

• How to drive with a trailer

• Working safely on a scaffold

• Heavy equipment awareness

• Workplace evacuation preparedness

• Mineral dust dangers

• Be prepared for outdoor pests

• Supplemental foods explained

• Summer heat and fatigue

children and pets away from the hot surface. Use long-handled utensils and oven mitts to avoid burns. And always have a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.

If you are hosting a party, you have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your guests. Provide hand sanitizer and disposable cups and plates for your guests. Avoid sharing food or utensils and have a designated area for disposing of waste. If you are serving alcohol, limit the amount and offer non-alcoholic

• Enjoy the sun with sun sensitivity

• Prepare for walking on your vacation

• Protect your home from wildfire

• Opening the cottage safely

• Get ready for hot weather

• Ways to prevent car theft

• Safety meeting: Helping young and new workers

alternatives. Monitor your guests for signs of intoxication, and do not let anyone drive impaired. Arrange for taxis, rideshares, or designated drivers for your guests who need a ride home.

If you are attending a party, respect the rules and wishes of your host. Do not attend a party if you are feeling sick, avoid sharing anything with others, and dispose of your waste properly. Drink responsibly and know your limits. Do not drive impaired, and plan for a safe way to get home.

Publisher & CEO: Stefan Dreesen

H&S Communication Specialists: Alan Haycroft | Liz Slobodin | Kevin Harvey

Editor: Kate Van Hoof-Peeren

Contributing Writer: Bryden Winsby

TOLL FREE: 1-888-655-4800

info@smartworkplace.ca www.smartworkplace.ca

Working safely on a scaffold

Working on a scaffold can be a risky job, especially if you are not aware of the potential hazards and how to prevent them. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), more than 40,000 workers are injured every year due to falls from heights, and many of these incidents involve scaffolds.

Some of the common hazards of working on a scaffold include:

• Falling from the scaffold due to lack of guardrails, improper access, slippery surfaces, or human error.

• Being struck by falling objects, such as tools, materials, or debris, from the scaffold or nearby structures.

• Collapsing of the scaffold due to overloading, structural defects, or environmental factors, such as wind or rain.

• Electrocution from contact with overhead power lines or faulty electrical equipment on the scaffold.

• Fire or explosion from flammable or combustible materials on or near the scaffold.

To prevent or reduce the risk of scaffold hazards, you should follow these tips:

• Before using a scaffold, inspect it for any visible damage, such as cracks, bends, or missing parts. Report any defects to your supervisor and do not use the scaffold until it is repaired.

How to drive with a trailer

Whether you are moving to a new place, going on a camping trip, or hauling some bulky items, you might need a trailer to attach to your vehicle. A trailer can provide extra space and convenience for your transportation needs. However, driving with a trailer is not the same as driving without one. You need to be aware of some important differences and challenges that come with towing a trailer behind your car.

Before you rent a trailer, you need to make sure that it is compatible with your vehicle and your purpose. You should check the following factors:

You should consult a professional if you are not sure how to hook up the trailer correctly.

Once you have chosen and hooked up the right trailer, you are ready to hit the road. However, you should keep in mind some tips to drive safely with a trailer, especially if you are a beginner. Here are some of them:

• Adjust your mirrors. You should make sure that you can see the rear and sides of the trailer clearly. You may need to install additional mirrors or use a backup camera to improve your visibility.

• Use proper access methods, such as ladders, stairs, or ramps, to get on and off the scaffold. Do not climb on the cross braces or use unsecured planks or ladders.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, gloves, safety shoes, and harnesses, when working on a scaffold. Secure your tools and materials to prevent them from falling or use a debris net or catch platform to catch them.

• Avoid working on a scaffold near overhead power lines or sources of heat or ignition. If you have to work near them, ensure that they are de-energized, insulated, or guarded.

• The towing capacity of your vehicle. This is the maximum weight that your vehicle can pull safely. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s door jamb. Do not exceed this limit, as it can damage your vehicle and compromise your safety.

• The weight and size of the trailer. You should choose a trailer that is within your vehicle’s towing capacity and that fits your cargo. You should also consider the height and width of the trailer, as it can affect your visibility and manoeuvrability on the road.

• The hitch and wiring of the trailer. You should make sure that the trailer has a compatible hitch and wiring system with your vehicle. The hitch is the device that connects the trailer to your vehicle, and the wiring is the electrical connection that powers the trailer’s lights and brakes.

• Drive slowly and smoothly. You should avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and steering, as they can cause the trailer to sway or jackknife. You should also reduce your speed when going downhill, turning, or changing lanes.

• Allow more space and time. You should increase your following distance and braking distance when driving with a trailer, as it takes longer to stop and react. You should also plan your route ahead and avoid narrow roads, sharp curves, and low bridges.

• Practice before you go. You should familiarize yourself with the feel and handling of the trailer before you embark on your trip. You should practice driving, backing up, parking, and turning in an empty lot or a quiet street.

For more information, you can visit the Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca

• Do not work on a scaffold during adverse weather conditions, such as high winds, rain, snow, or ice. Check the weather forecast and monitor the wind speed and direction. 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 professional. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at his/her own risk and assumes any and all liability arising therefrom. Specific medical advice should be obtained through consultation with a physician or other trained health care practitioner. Thanks to News Canada for some content and images. © 2024

Be aware of heavy equipment on the road Know what to do in a workplace evacuation

Driving through construction zones can be challenging and stressful for any driver. You may encounter traffic delays, detours, lane closures, reduced speed limits, and uneven surfaces. But one of the most important things to be aware of is the presence of heavy equipment on the road, such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, or pavers. These machines are essential for building and maintaining our roads and infrastructure, but they also pose some risks and hazards for drivers who share the road with them.

Heavy equipment does not operate the same as a regular vehicle. They are often larger, slower, louder, and less manoeuvrable than cars and trucks. They may have blind spots, limited visibility, and restricted turning radius. They may also make sudden or unpredictable movements, such as swinging, lifting, or dropping their loads. These factors can increase the chances of collisions, injuries, and property damage if drivers are not careful and respectful around them.

To drive safely around heavy equipment in construction zones, you need to follow some basic rules and tips. Here are some of them:

• Slow down and obey the posted speed limits and signs in the construction zone. Speeding can reduce your reaction time and increase the severity of a crash.

• Keep a safe distance from the heavy equipment and do not tailgate, cut off, or pass them unless it is safe and legal to do so. Heavy equipment may need more space and time to stop, turn, or change lanes.

• Pay attention to the signals and directions of the heavy equipment operators and flaggers. They may use hand signals, horns, lights, or flags to communicate their intentions and warn you of potential hazards.

• Be patient and courteous and do not honk, flash your lights, or gesture at the heavy equipment operators. They are doing their job and may not be able to respond to your actions or requests.

• Plan ahead and avoid driving through construction zones during peak hours or bad weather if possible. You can use alternative routes, public transportation, or carpooling to reduce congestion and stress.

Driving around heavy equipment in construction zones is a common and unavoidable situation for many drivers. But by being aware, respectful, and cautious, you can reduce the risks and make the road safer for everyone. If you want to learn more about heavy equipment safety and how to prevent collisions visit roadsafetyatwork.ca.

Emergencies can happen at any time and in any place. Whether it is a fire, a gas leak, a power outage, or a natural disaster, you need to know how to get out of your workplace safely and quickly. Having an evacuation plan can save your life and the lives of your co-workers. It can also reduce the risk of injuries, property damage, and legal liability.

One of the best ways to be prepared for a workplace evacuation is to familiarize yourself with the plan before an emergency occurs. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Read and understand the evacuation plan and procedures. Know where the exits, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency kits are located. Ask your employer or supervisor if you have any questions.

• Participate in regular drills and training sessions. Follow the instructions of the designated emergency personnel and practice using the evacuation routes and exits. Learn how to use the fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment if needed.

• Keep your personal belongings organized and accessible. Have a backpack or a bag with your essential items, such as your wallet, keys, phone, charger, medication, and water bottle. Store it near your workstation or in a locker. Do not leave any valuables or important documents behind.

• Have a contact list of your family members and friends. Make sure you have their phone numbers, email addresses, and social media accounts. Let them know where you work and what your evacuation plan is. Inform them of any changes or updates in your situation.

If an emergency happens and you need to evacuate your workplace, stay calm and follow these steps:

• Listen for the alarm or the announcement. Do not ignore or delay your response. Stop what you are doing and prepare to leave immediately.

• Follow the evacuation plan and procedures. Use the nearest and safest exit. Do not use the elevators or the stairs if there is a fire. Do not go back for anything. Help others who need assistance if you can.

• Report to the designated assembly area. Stay with your co-workers and wait for further instructions. Do not re-enter the building until you are told it is safe to do so.

• Contact your family and friends as soon as possible. Let them know that you are safe and where you are.

Pneumoconiosis: Major danger of mineral dust

Pneumoconiosis — it’s tough to spell and pronounce — but it’s a serious safety concern in numerous occupations.

The term refers to diseases caused by the lung’s reaction to inhaling certain mineral dusts. The risk is generally higher when people have been exposed to the dusts in high concentrations and/or for long periods of time. In addition, poor or inconsistent use of personal protective equipment, such as respirators, can result in the development of pneumoconiosis.

One of the most common forms is black lung disease, also known as miner’s lung. It’s caused by breathing in coal dust. Another is brown lung, which comes from working around dust from cotton or other fibres. Other types of dusts that can cause pneumoconiosis include silica, asbestos, talc and kaolin (China clay). Diacetyl, the compound used to give movie popcorn its buttery flavour, also can lead to the disease. This is known as popcorn lung.

Symptoms of pneumoconiosis often depend on how severe the disease is. Sometimes there are no symptoms. When symptoms develop, they can include cough (with or without mucus), wheezing and shortness of breath, especially during exercise.

If pneumoconiosis causes severe lung fibrosis, breathing can become extremely difficult. When this happens, the patient’s lips and fingernails may have a bluish tinge. In very advanced disease, there also may be signs of leg

swelling caused by too much strain on the heart.

Pneumoconiosis can’t be cured. Once the disease has been diagnosed, treatment is aimed at keeping it from getting worse and controlling its symptoms. A treatment plan might include not smoking, avoiding all dust exposure, using oxygen and taking medications called bronchodilators that open lung passages.

In the long term, people with asbestosis and talc pneumoconiosis have an increased risk of lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma (cancer of the membranes lining the lungs and abdominal cavity). The risk of lung cancer is especially high in smokers with asbestosis.

Since the disease cannot be reversed, prevention is important. Common preventive measures include:

• Wearing a mask.

• Washing areas of skin that come in contact with dust.

• Safe removal of dust from clothing.

• Washing the face and hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or taking any medications.

• Not smoking.

• Letting your doctor and your employer know about any symptoms of pneumoconiosis.

• Getting regular chest X-rays and physical exams.

Be prepared for insects and other pests

Spring is a beautiful season, but it also brings some unwanted guests: bugs, insects and other pests that can be harmful to your health and safety, especially if you work outdoors. Here are a few of some of the nasties you might encounter:

Spiders

Spiders are not insects, but they are often grouped with them because they have eight legs and can bite. Most spiders in Canada are harmless, but some can cause serious reactions, such as the black widow and the brown recluse. These spiders are rare, but they can be found in dark and dry places, such as woodpiles, sheds, basements, and attics. To avoid spiders, you should wear gloves and long sleeves when handling wood or debris and check your clothing and shoes before putting them on.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can transmit diseases, such as West Nile virus and malaria, which can cause fever, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. To prevent mosquito bites, you should wear light-coloured and loosefitting clothing that covers your arms and legs, apply insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin. If you get bitten by a mosquito, you can relieve the itching and swelling by applying a cold compress, calamine lotion, or hydrocortisone cream. If you have symptoms of a mosquito-borne disease, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Wasps

Wasps can be aggressive and sting multiple times, which can cause pain, swelling, redness, and allergic reactions. Wasps build their nests in spring, usually in hollow trees, eaves, walls, or roofs. To avoid wasps, you should not wear bright colours or floral scents, which can attract them, and keep your food and drinks covered when outdoors. You should also be careful not to disturb their nests, which can trigger an attack. If you get stung by a wasp, you should remove the stinger by scraping it with a credit card or a fingernail, wash the area with soap and water, apply ice to reduce swelling, and take an antihistamine or painkiller if needed. If you have signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, wheezing, or fainting, seek medical attention

What you need to know about supplemented foods

(NC) Are your kids consuming caffeinated energy drinks? Did you know Health Canada doesn’t recommend that children under the age of 14 consume these or other supplemented foods and drinks with caffeine? There’s more you need to know.

Supplemented foods are foods or drinks with one or more specific ingredients added to them. Examples of supplemented foods can include snack bars, fruit drinks and carbonated beverages.

The supplemental ingredients can include:

* Caffeine.

* Minerals such as calcium.

* Vitamins such as vitamin C.

* Amino acids such as L-leucine.

These are different from fortified foods which contain added nutrients for nutritional purposes like adding vitamin D to milk to support bone health.

Some supplemented foods, such as caffeinated energy drinks, are not suitable for children because of the type or amount of supplemental ingredients (e.g., caffeine) added to them.

To help you navigate these products, Health Canada has introduced new regulations requiring updated labels for supplemented foods and drinks. As of January 1st, 2026, all these foods and drinks will be required to have new labels, but you might start seeing them sooner.

These products will have a supplemented food facts table, instead of a nutrition facts table, that includes a “Supplemented with” section listing all the supplemental ingredients added. Some will also carry a caution identifier on the front of the label. This tells consumers to check the back or side of the product for more detailed cautions, such as “Not recommended for those under 14 years old.”

Learn more about supplemented foods at canada.ca/supplemented-foods.

Summer heat raises risk of fatigue

Although the warm, sunny days of late spring and summer are welcome after months of dreary winter weather, anyone who has spent time under a hot sun knows there can be a serious downside.

A bad sunburn, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious concerns — but a condition that can occur earlier — fatigue — also poses potential problems, especially in a work setting.

Fatigue is more than just feeling tired –it’s a form of impairment. It can reduce mental and physical functioning, affect judgment and concentration, slow reaction time and lower motivation.

Signs you may be fatigued include:

• Weariness.

• Irritability.

• Reduced alertness.

• Lack of motivation.

• Headaches.

• Loss of appetite.

Fatigue is among the symptoms of heat cramps, the mildest form of heat-related illness. Prompt treatment can prevent heat cramps from progressing to moreserious heat illnesses. Other symptoms of heat cramps often include heavy sweating and thirst.

Before cramps happen, though, there are measures to help minimize the likelihood of fatigue and other symptoms: Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids

throughout the day. Dehydration can contribute to fatigue, so keep a water bottle or sports drinks handy.

Cool your environment. Use fans or air conditioning to keep your working space cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, try using shades or curtains to block out direct sunlight.

Dress accordingly. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton. Light colours can also help reflect heat. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also advised.

Avoid peak sun hours. If possible, limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (typically midday) and schedule activities for cooler mornings or evenings.

Take breaks: When you feel fatigued, allow yourself to rest frequently and avoid overexertion.

Eat properly. Opt for lighter meals that include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Heavy or greasy foods can make you feel more lethargic in hot weather.

Stay in the shade: When outdoors, avoid direct sunlight as much as possible to help maintain a lower body temperature.

Manage your schedule. Plan activities wisely, tackling more strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day.

Get adequate sleep. Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep at night, as heat can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to fatigue.

Ways to prepare for walking on your vacation

Walking in a sunny destination can be a great way to explore and enjoy your vacation. However, you need to prepare yourself for the weather, the distance, and the footwear. Here are some tips to help you get ready.

The weather can vary depending on where you are going. You might face heat, humidity, sun, or rain. You need to pack clothing and accessories that protect you from the elements and keep you comfortable. Here are some suggestions:

• Check the forecast and pack accordingly. You might need a raincoat, a hat, a scarf, or a jacket.

• Choose light, breathable, and moisturewicking fabrics. Avoid dark colours and synthetic materials. Opt for cotton, linen, or merino wool.

• Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you go outside and reapply every two hours. Choose a sunscreen that has at least SPF 30 and broadspectrum protection. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wear a hat that covers your neck and ears.

• Drink water and stay hydrated. You might lose more fluids than usual when you walk in the heat. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.

The type of footwear you need depends on the terrain and the activity. You want to choose shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and suitable. You also want to avoid blisters, injuries, and infections. Here are some tips to help you choose the right footwear:

• Research the terrain and the activity. You might need hiking boots, sneakers, sandals, flip-flops, or water shoes.

• Try on your shoes and make sure they fit well. You want to have enough room for your toes and your heel. You also want to have some space for your feet to swell. Avoid shoes that are too tight, too loose, or too new. Break in your shoes before you go.

• Wear socks that match your shoes and the weather. Choose socks that wick away moisture and prevent friction. Choose socks that fit the temperature and the activity.

• Take care of your feet and prevent problems. Keep your feet clean and dry and avoid walking barefoot. Treat any blisters, cuts, or scrapes and apply antiseptic and bandages. Bring some foot care products, such as blister pads, moleskin, or antifungal cream.

How to enjoy the sun with sun sensitivity

Sun sensitivity, also known as photosensitivity, is a condition that makes your skin more prone to sunburns, rashes, or blisters when exposed to sunlight. Sun sensitivity can be caused by various factors, such as genetics, medications, skin disorders, or immune system diseases. Some common signs of sun sensitivity are redness, itching, swelling, pain, or blisters on the skin after sun exposure. Sun sensitivity can affect your quality of life and limit your outdoor activities, especially in the summer months. However, there are ways to enjoy the sun and its benefits without compromising your skin health.

Sun exposure is essential for your overall well-being, as it provides you with vitamin D, which helps regulate your calcium and phosphorus levels, supports your immune system, and protects you from various diseases. Sun exposure also boosts your mood, improves your sleep quality, and reduces your stress levels. According to Health Canada, the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for adults is 600 IU (international units), which can be obtained from 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure on your face, arms, and hands, two to three times a week. However, if you have sun sensitivity, you may need to adjust your sun exposure time and frequency, depending on your skin type and condition.

If you have sun sensitivity, you can still enjoy the sun and its benefits by following a few tips:

• Wear sunscreen. Apply a broadspectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim. Choose a sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type and condition, and avoid ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions, such as fragrances, preservatives, or chemicals.

• Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with clothing that is light, loose, and breathable, such as cotton or linen. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and gloves to protect your face, eyes, and hands from the sun. Avoid fabrics that are dark, tight, or synthetic, as they may absorb more heat and irritate your skin.

• Avoid peak hours. The sun is strongest between 10 am. and 4 pm, so try to limit your outdoor activities during this time. Seek shade whenever possible and avoid direct sunlight. If you have to work outdoors during peak hours, take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and cool.

• Consult your doctor. If you have sun sensitivity, you may need to adjust your medication dosage, frequency, or type, as some drugs may increase your photosensitivity. Talk to your doctor about your sun sensitivity and how it affects your health and lifestyle. Your doctor may also prescribe you supplements, creams, or treatments to help you manage your condition and prevent complications.

How to safely open your summer cottage

Opening your summer cottage after a long winter can pose some potential hazards. You may encounter damage from weather, animals, or vandalism, or you may face issues with your utilities, appliances, or water system. Follow these safety tips to prepare your summer cottage for the season:

Before you enter your summer cottage, you should inspect the exterior for any signs of damage caused by weather, animals, or vandalism. Look for cracks, holes, leaks, broken windows, or missing shingles. If you notice any problems, take photos and contact your insurance company or a contractor to fix them as soon as possible.

Open all the windows and doors to let fresh air circulate and get rid of any musty or stale smells. You should also clean and disinfect all the surfaces, appliances, furniture, and linens. Throw away any expired food or beverages, and check for signs of mold, mildew, or pests. If you have a fireplace or a wood stove, make sure the chimney is clear and clean.

If you have turned off the water, electricity, or gas during the winter, you should turn them back on carefully and check for any leaks or malfunctions. You should also test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries if needed. If you have a septic system, you should have it pumped and inspected by a professional. You should also check the water quality and temperature, and flush the pipes and faucets.

You should also make a list of any repairs or improvements you want to make during the season and schedule them in advance. You should also review your insurance policy and make sure it covers your summer cottage adequately.

Protect your home and garden from wildfire

(NC) The garden is a place to express your creativity and beautify your curb appeal. It can also help keep you safe.

Across Canada there were more than 6,500 wildfires in 2023. You can help protect your home and family with your green thumb and these four tips:

First up, is clean up: Some gardeners like to delay cleaning the winter debris out of their gardens until late spring to give more time for friendly insects and critters to wake from their hibernation. But anyone living in a wildfire-prone area should limit this to wide-open, noncombustible areas away from structures. Ideally, your property should be cleaned of sticks and leaves, with grass trimmed to less than 10 cm (4 inches) by May and maintained through September.

Zone out: Defining separate outdoor zones for play and entertainment, as well as for vegetable and flower gardens, will help add functionality while keeping people, pets and plants safe. The most important zone for anyone who lives in a place at higher risk of wildfire is the area directly surrounding your home. Using fire-resistant materials for decks, patios and seating with pop-up-shade tents as well as moveable potted plants can go

a long way to keeping your home safe while creating a beautiful and inviting space.

Choose local: When choosing plants, native species are always a great idea. Flowering plants like windflower, honeysuckle and coneflower are beautiful additions to any softscape. But, because they’re native to Canada, there are added benefits: they need less maintenance, are a preferred food source for bees and other pollinators, and they are typically more drought resistant – meaning they’re less likely to easily catch and spread fire.

Look up: Don’t forget to look up when designing your backyard escape. Add dimension to your landscape by incorporating freestanding vertical gardens, creeping vines and hanging baskets in your garden’s green zones. Keep trees and bushes, especially those that touch or overhang your home, trimmed back. While the ladder is out, make sure your eavestroughs and roof are clear of any debris. And while you’re up there, look at your roof and repair any curling shingles. If it’s time for a new roof, consider durable, fire-resistant materials and a simple design.

Keep your cool when the weather heats up

(NC) Many of us spend winter dreaming of sunny summer days ahead. However, the weather can become too hot to enjoy.

To make sure you can keep your cool when the weather heats up, here are some tips.

Check your air conditioner

If you have an air conditioner, make sure it’s working properly before you need it. Turn it on for a test and schedule service if needed. This way, if there is a problem you can solve it before the first heat wave. If you don’t have an air-conditioner, identify places close to home where you can cool off on hot days, such as a library or community centre.

Have hot-weather recipes ready

Using your oven during a heat wave will add to the hot temperatures you’re feeling. Rather than trying to come up with recipes when it’s already too hot to think, plan some oven-free meals before the hot weather arrives. There are plenty of delicious options, including no-cook and cold dishes, as well as microwave-safe meals.

Revisit your closet

Many of us store our summer clothes out of the way for the winter. Dig them out in the springtime before the first heat wave so that you know they fit and where to find them when

hot temperatures strike. Loose-fitting and light-coloured clothes made from breathable fabrics can help keep you cooler.

Brush up on safety steps

If you take medication or have a health condition, ask your health-care provider about how heat can affect you and follow their advice. If you do outdoor work or activities, ensure that you have a plan to accommodate extreme heat.

Arrange check-ins to reduce risk

Watch out for the early signs of heat illness, which include headaches, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or fainting, extreme thirst, and rapid breathing or heartbeat. These can rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies and affect your ability to reach out for help.

While everyone is at risk for heat illnesses, older adults, infants and young children, people experiencing homelessness and anyone with a chronic illness is at greater risk. Living alone or being socially isolated can also put people at great risk. Talk to your family, friends and neighbours to arrange regular check-ins with them during hot weather in case anyone needs support.

Find more information about how to prepare for summer heat at canada.ca/ health.

Ways to prevent car theft

(NC) Car theft is on the rise and costs Canadians more than $1 billion annually. Car thieves are prioritizing easy marks – convenient, low-risk opportunities to steal. By making it inconvenient, you can protect yourself against vehicle theft. Here are 10 simple precautions recommended to help ensure your vehicle is waiting for you when you step outside.

• Make sure your vehicle isn’t left running unattended, even for just a few minutes.

• Make sure to lock your vehicle and close the windows.

• Keep your keys or keyless fob away from doors and windows. If your car has a keyless ignition, use a Faraday bag that blocks the signal from your key fob and prevents it from being hacked by thieves to gain entry to your vehicle.

• Use after-market deterrents such as steering-wheel or brake-pedal locks, or alarm systems.

• Add a vehicle tracking device.

• Talk to your mechanic about installing an immobilizing device to prevent hotwiring.

• Park in well-lit, populated areas or in secured garages.

• Don’t keep personal identification or valuables in your vehicle. Ensure your possessions are stowed out of sight and in your trunk if you are away from home.

• Before purchasing a vehicle, do some research and request all required documentation from the seller. If a deal feels too good to be true, be sure to listen to your instincts. Wait to get the verification you need before proceeding.

• To avoid theft while selling your vehicle, ensure you meet in a safe, well-lit, thirdparty location such as a busy parking lot or outside your local police precinct. When it’s time to receive payment, do so at a physical bank so you can verify the payment method used.

Find more information about car theft prevention through your insurance advisor. Depending on what vehicle you drive, and what theft prevention steps you take, you might even be able to secure a discount on your premiums.

Zone Comfort

Safety Meeting

Read this part of the meeting aloud

Helping new workers stay safe

Today’s safety meeting is about helping new hires and summer students stay safe on the job.

We all have a responsibility to help new workers, especially young workers and summer students, to stay safe on the job. New workers are more vulnerable to workplace injuries and need your support and guidance.

New workers face many challenges and risks when they start a new job. They may not be familiar with the work environment, the equipment, the tasks, or the expectations. They may not have the knowledge, skills, or experience to perform their duties safely and efficiently. They may also lack the confidence, communication, or problem-solving skills to deal with difficult situations or to ask for help when they need it.

These factors make new workers, especially young workers and summer students, more likely to get injured on the job than experienced workers. According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada, in 2019, there were 32,793 lost-time claims for workers aged 15 to 24, and 13,835 of those claims were for summer students. That means that every day, about 90 young workers and 38 summer students were injured at work and had to miss work because of their injuries.

New workers may not be aware of the hazards and risks in their workplace, or they may not feel comfortable asking questions or reporting problems. They may also face pressure from their peers, supervisors, or employers to work faster, harder, or longer than they can handle. They may not know their rights and responsibilities as workers, or they may fear losing their job or reputation if they speak up about safety issues.

New workers need guidance, training, and supervision from experienced

workers to learn how to work safely and prevent injuries. They also need support, encouragement, and feedback from their co-workers to build their confidence and skills.

Here are some examples of how young workers or summer students have been injured on the job:

• A 17-year-old summer student working at a landscaping company suffered a severe cut to his leg when he was using a weed trimmer without proper protective equipment or training. He had to undergo surgery and missed the rest of the summer season.

• A 21-year-old construction worker working on a roof fell from a ladder and landed on a concrete slab, fracturing his spine and pelvis. He was not wearing a harness or a hard hat. He had to use a wheelchair and undergo rehabilitation for a year.

There are many ways to help new workers stay safe and succeed on the job. Start by being a positive role model and follow the safety rules and procedures in your workplace. Show new workers that safety is a priority and a value in your organization, and demonstrate how to use the

equipment, tools, and materials safely and correctly. Explain the hazards and risks in your workplace and how to avoid or control them.

Offer to mentor, coach, or buddy up with new workers and show them how to perform their tasks safely and efficiently. Share your knowledge, skills, and experience with them and help them learn from your mistakes and successes. Monitor their progress and performance and provide them with constructive feedback and praise. Help new workers set realistic and achievable goals and celebrate their accomplishments.

Encourage new workers to ask questions and speak up if they are unsure or uncomfortable about something. Create a welcoming and respectful atmosphere where new workers feel valued and included. You can also listen to their concerns and suggestions and help them find solutions. Support them in reporting any hazards, incidents, or near misses to your supervisor or employer.

But helping new workers is not a one-way street. New workers can also help older workers with new ideas, perspectives, and skills. New workers can be an asset and should not be ignored or dismissed. They can bring fresh energy, creativity, and innovation to your workplace, and can challenge the status quo and suggest improvements and changes. Work together to create a safer, more productive, and more enjoyable work environment for everyone.

Helping new workers stay safe is not only your responsibility, but also your benefit. Remember, safety is a team effort and everyone has a role to play.

Thank you for your attention today.

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