Daily Preparedness

Dealing with a chronic or rare disease (or merely being mortal) often leads one into the forest of “All Natural Supplements, Ointments, Cure-Alls and Wonder Drugs.” Navigating between the hype, the ridiculous and the dangerous can be an exhausting business. Products that are harmless but expensive are not safe to our wallets. Products that are potentially harmful to us are often disguised as ‘all natural supplements’ that could interact with prescribed medications or contain serious (though natural) products. How do we protect ourselves and our wallets while remaining open to the possibility of improving our condition?

First, a few relevant bits of wisdom to keep in mind:

• Most manufactured medications are based on ‘natural’ ingredients. For instance, aspirin is merely a chemically reproduced form of white willow bark. White willow bark contains most of the properties of aspirin and must be treated as such. For instance, it is a great anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, but it also thins the blood and interacts with a number of medications & conditions.
• Natural remedies MUST be treated with extreme respect and researched thoroughly via independent resources. Many ‘natural’ substances are wonderful to use in the place of prescription medications, BUT one must be certain of the research, the potential risks and the cost implications.
• The supplement and vitamin market is essentially unregulated, untested and unsupervised. Valid scientific research has shown a wide variation in ingredient strength, quantity of active ingredient and verification of ‘research.’
• The supplement and natural remedy business generates billions and billions of dollars per year. It is a business, unfortunately, full of charlatans, snake oil salesmen and abuse. Buyer beware should be the basis of all decisions you make when entering this world.
• Learn and understand what true peer reviewed scientific literature is. Some of the most infamous charlatans publish their own ‘vanity’ pieces, mostly in online publications. Their review process is highly flawed and their ‘research’ is aimed at selling their product.
• There is little valid peer reviewed research into the interactions between ‘natural’ remedies and prescribed medication. ALWAYS ask your pharmacist if they are aware of any interactions between what you are currently taking and what you think you might want to take. A responsible pharmacist can run a quick search and tell you if there is solid research. They may also be able to tell you which manufactured medication correlates with the ’supplement’.
• ALL ‘remedies’ that we swallow, apply, inject or soak in should be carefully considered. Our bodies are sacred and it is our job to protect them as much as possible.
• A physician recommending a product does not necessarily mean that it is safe, effective OR cost appropriate. Be wary of a physician that is constantly jumping on the latest medical fad bandwagon!

Now that we have the ground work laid, how do we quickly and effectively research the latest ‘wonder cure all’? Having done this a few dozen times over the last decade (and not being a medical professional), I will use my latest product research to outline the steps you might want to consider.

Fellow individuals with a rare genetic disorder, Dercum’s Disease, recommended a topical pain relief ointment known as DRL 100. At $19.95 (plus S& H), it is rather dangerous to the wallet, but maybe worth it if it relieved the constant pain of Dercum’s. The steps I followed to research this possible ‘wonder drug’ apply to any supplement, vitamin, ointment, salve, injection or treatment.

1. Learn to read the label! The most important item is ‘active ingredients.’ These are the ingredients that are in substantial enough quantities to do something for you. In the case of DRL 100, the only active ingredient is menthol. The label states it contains ‘hyaluronan,’ a supposed miraculous pain reliever. The inactive ingredients list hyaluronic acid, but being listed where it is indicates that legally it contains so little that it is useless–essentially enough to be able to list it, but not enough to do anything.
2. Learn what the active ingredient actually does. Menthol (Methyl Salicylate), the active ingredient in DRL 100, is an age-old local pain reliever. Menthol does not actually numb the area, but rather floods the brain with so much incoming data that the brain essentially ‘forgets’ the pain in the area. Muscles relax, the skin feels cool and the pain is ‘gone.’ It works and is essentially harmless UNLESS you have certain underlying conditions or medications. For instance, menthol creams interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of adverse side effects (as in internal bleeding, hemorrhaging from a simple cut, having a stroke). It should not be applied to broken skin or those with allergies to certain foods or ointments. Pregnancy is also listed as a possible prohibitive condition. Menthol is cheap, readily available in a variety of preparations and well known. It is essentially ’safe,’ but the price of DRL 100 is exorbitant. Similar products are available for less than $5 for 2 ounces.
3. Run it past the pharmacist. Give them a list of the active ingredients and ask if it interacts with anything you are taking. When I did this, the pharmacist recommended multiple over-the-counter preparations that would do exactly the same thing at a fraction of the cost. It is even possible to order menthol and add peppermint if you prefer the smell of peppermint. (Peppermint is a relaxing smell to the human brain). For the price of 2 ounces of DRL 100, you could make a quart or more of stronger menthol cream.
4. Research the company. Though this step wasn’t necessary for the DRL 100, I did it out of curiosity because the product is being hyped to a group of folks who already have enough problems! I simply googled the manufacturer, Dermal Research Laboratories. I skipped all of the sales pitch sites and found them listed on ‘corporationwiki,’ which provided a link to Dun & Bradstreet, a highly respected collective of corporate information.
5. From the above, I found the names of the two principles of the company as well as their business address, which was limited to a Post Office Box (always a bit questionable). I also located their company phone number. A sidebar listed a street address, which confirmed what I found below.
6. I used the company phone number to perform a reverse phone number search, which revealed that it was co-listed as the ‘business’ phone for Dermal Research Laboratories and a home number for one of the principles. The address tied to that phone number was the home address of one of the company principles.
7. In order to double check that the address was a home, I utilized google maps and mapquest. Their satellite imaging confirmed that the ‘business’ location for Dermal Research Laboratories is a very nice home in a very nice residential area. No serious laboratory here. No research facility. No large scale shipping facility. Just a nice suburban neighborhood (as in VERY nice). I am not against home based businesses; I think they are wonderful. BUT, they are not serious scientific research laboratories producing serious life-altering products. Supposed medical miracles produced in someone’s home are most likely paying for that very nice home in a very nice neighborhood.

Navigating the forest of alternative medicine can be frustrating, confusing and potentially dangerous. Before investing in the newest wonder drug, supplement, treatment or diet, do a bit of research on your own. Thirty minutes of your time may not only save you money, suffering and frustration—it may even save your life…..and that is provident living at its best!

After quite an absence to ’savor’ 10 weeks of IV antibiotics and then the crunch of Christmas, it is time once again to get organized! There is no better time than the beginning of a new year to re-evaluate, re-organize and re-do those areas of our lives that could use a bit of attention.

One of the rooms that is often most lacking in usable storage is the bathroom. We need to store necessities and frivolities while protecting them from the range of temperature and humidity that are common in bathrooms. It is also a room that needs to be cleaned frequently and well, which means that the little stuff needs to be put away! A bathroom that is orderly is a bathroom that is easier to clean.

AS YOU ORGANIZE, BE CERTAIN THAT YOU HAVE CHILDPROOFED YOUR BATHROOM!!! THE CLEANERS, MEDICATIONS, RAZORS, COSMETICS, PERFUMES & ASSORTED SMALL ITEMS OFTEN FOUND IN A BATHROOM ARE ALL POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ITEMS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN OR PETS. IF ANYONE IN YOUR HOME IS EVEN SLIGHTLY MOBILITY IMPAIRED, HAVE GRAB BARS INSTALLED NEAR TUB.

Let’s first look at the necessities. Toilet paper needs to be accessible and readily restocked. A few ideas to consider: decorative baskets, bins in a cabinet (small inexpensive trash cans work well under sinks to hold ’stuff’), over the toilet cabinets, holders designed to sit on the floor and holders designed to hang from the tank are a few options. Extra toilet paper should ideally be stored nearby. Think about storing extra in an under-the-bed box, on the top shelf of a closet, on the floor of your linen closet or even in decorative hat boxes.

Sanitary supplies can become a jumbled up nightmare without some organization. Again, small, thin and inexpensive trash cans are great for sliding in cabinets. They will protect your products while organizing them. Their slender size allows several to stand side-by-side in a typical under the sink cabinet. If you store extra supplies, store them elsewhere but still accessible. The suggestions for toilet paper can apply to this category.

Have holders in your tub or shower for shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, etc. Holders can be found that hang from the shower head, the shower curtain rod, the wall or with tension rods. Whatever you choose, dispose of empty containers quickly and replace items as they are used.

If you have trouble keeping up with clean towels, install an extra towel bar. Doubling your in-the-bathroom storage capability will save those hysterical calls of “I need a towel!” Have a hamper to hold soiled towels and teach your family to use it.

Medications that will be stored for long periods of time should be stored outside of the bathroom. The heat and humidity of the bathroom will reduce the shelf life of most medications. Keep your current medications well labeled and safely stored. If you take more than one medication at the beginning or end of a day, invest in a plastic pill case that you can fill for weeks at a time.  Make it a point to regularly dispose of medications you no longer need. Store your current medications either in a medicine cabinet or a set of drawers (only if you do not have small children in your home). If you have trouble reading the small print on the medication label, write the medication name on the top of the lid or across the label with a permanent marker.

Emily T. suggested storing first aid supplies in a cabinet made up of small drawers, typically used for small hardware parts. She has the drawers clearly labeled as to their contents. In an emergency, she can quickly locate what she needs. Inventorying her supplies is easy.

Small drawers of all sorts are great ways to organize any number of items commonly found in a bathroom. We have more counter space than drawer space. We extended our storage capability by purchasing a small shelf ‘tower’ that sits on the counter. The tower holds several sets of small drawers that hold commonly worn jewelry, deodorant, dental floss and host of other items.  Each drawer has a ‘theme’ of the type of item it holds. One shelf has small trays on it to manage bottles of ’stuff’. Another has a set of very small drawers that hold cotton swabs, make-up sponges & other very small items.

If you have larger drawers, inexpensive plastic silverware trays will help organize items within the drawer. Cosmetics, razors, brushes, combs, etc, etc, etc. can be grouped together in one drawer and then kept manageable by the dividers. There are a variety of drawer organizing systems on the market, widely available at discount stores, hardware stores and online.

Install hooks on back of doors & walls to hold bathrobes, towels, etc.

Be sure to have a toilet bowl brush for every bathroom, as well as a supply of necessary cleaners.

A small, lined trash can is a necessity in every well organized bathroom. Line it with shopping bags or small trash bags to make clean up easier. Store extra bags in the bottom of the trash can.

Under sink cabinets can become orderly in minutes by utilizing small, thin trashcans, wire racks, pull out shelving, small drawer sets and stair-step type shelving. Add hooks to the inside of the cabinet doors to hang small items.

A divided laundry hamper with sections for each type of laundry will speed sorting and help keep dirty clothes off the floor.

Organizing your bathroom should take only a few hours. As you organize, check for expiration dates, products you no longer use, empty containers and duplicates. Make note of everything you need to store and then find the perfect solution for your organized bathroom!

In the midst of an ongoing year-long fight with Lyme Disease, the importance of streamlining, organizing and ‘making do’ have never been more important. Many days, I have two or three ‘usable’ hours, which is why I refer to Lyme Disease as my ‘full time job’. Whether you are facing chronic illness, a crowded schedule, working outside the home with a family to take care of or would prefer to spend your free time doing anything BUT housework, developing systems to deal with the realities of running a home can allow you to keep the Health Department at bay and reduce your stress.

How do you go about organizing and running a home so that the home isn’t running you? And how does that relate to provident living and preparedness? “Organize every needful thing,” is not only often quoted scripture, it is the backbone of living a productive, happy and provident life. What good is a 72-hour kit if you can’t find your car keys when it is time to evacuate? How can you deal with an emergency (or an ongoing problem), if all of your energy is consumed with finding the bare necessities? How can you thoughtfully prepare and plan if you live in the midst of chaos? How many accidents occur because family members are stressed out or tripping over items out of place?

Over the next few weeks, we will delve into ideas that may help you analyze and develop systems that will allow you the freedom to pursue your interests, reduce the clutter of life and prepare yourselves for whatever tomorrow brings. PLEASE, if you have ideas, share them!

“A place for everything and everything in it’s place.” No, you don’t need to go all OCD over this one, but at least have a reasonable, accessible place for the items in your home. Make it a place that suits the item.

For instance, the car keys. We have had as many as five drivers in the house with cars that were often on a variable schedule rotation. It quickly became obvious that car keys could not belong to one person and needed to be available at all times. A simple solution? Car keys no longer belonged to one person. Each car’s key was separate from the others and hung inside a kitchen cabinet. Duplicate keys were separated so that there was always a spare available. When someone comes home, they hang the keys in the cabinet—NOT stash them in their pocket, purse, backpack or thrown on the counter. If needed, label the keys to identify which car they belong to and add a house key. Problem solved!

The diaper bag or your purse? No, don’t just stuff it behind the recliner. Maybe you should put a hook in the front closet and hang it there. Find a logical place and stick to it!

This same method works for tools, office supplies, salt & pepper shakers–anything that you need to have on hand. Identify the most logical place (closest to where it will be used and preferably not sitting out) to store it and return it to that place as soon as you are done with it. Pegboard, drawer organizers, plastic containers, shelving, cubbies, decorative boxes, hooks in closets & cabinets, under beds….wherever you need to store something, simply be logical and consistent. If you need the same item in multiple places (like scissors, tape, pens, toilet paper, even cleaners), purchase multiple and store them where they are most commonly used. This approach minimizes having to make multiple trips to locate what you need.

“Don’t sweat the small stuff, containerize it.” Life is full of small items we need and yet seem to never have a place to ‘be’. Whether it is your sewing supplies or the countless remotes, controllers, etc. that have invaded our homes, corralling the small items yields big benefits. A simple basket in the family room that corrals the remotes, drawers in the bathroom that hold make-up (a silverware organizer will keep the drawer orderly), a basket for mail, a wall organizer for hair bows, toy bins, glass jars for screws, shoe boxes for greeting cards, a pencil case for stamps and address labels, a net for stuffed animals, a file box for family papers–whatever you need to find, sort it by like items and contain them! The containers should fit the item, be easy to identify and fit in a logical location.

“Keep flat surfaces clear.” Any flat surface in a home seems to be a magnet for ’stuff’ to congregate. Instead of setting the mail on the counter, put it in that basket. Keep your kitchen counters cleared (they are easier to clean & more about this in a subsequent column), minimize items on your bathroom counter, If need be, have a container for each family member in the bathroom and near the door you most often use.

“Life is trashy.” Humans produce trash. To control the trash, place waste baskets in every room of your house. They can be small, large, plain or decorative, but keep them lined and have them handy. It is much easier to dispose of that tissue appropriately if you don’t have to interrupt your favorite show to carry it to the kitchen trash. Lining the trash cans keep them clean and easier to empty. Even a 3-year-old can empty a small wastebasket lined with an old shopping bag. For ‘cleaner’ trash, keep the spare bags in the bottom of the trash can. Make it a habit to empty the trash frequently BEFORE it smells! The day before trash pick-up is the ideal time to make a sweep of the trash cans.

“Perfect the 30 second clean up.” An amazing amount of cleaning, straightening and organizing can be done simply while you are walking through your house, stuck on hold or waiting for a website to load. As you walk from point A to point B, pick up items that need to be returned along your path. For instance, you are in the living room headed for the kitchen. Along the way, you see a piece of paper a child dropped–pick it up and toss it in the kitchen trash. Or you are taking the dish cloth to the washing machine—wash the off the refrigerator handle and then the trash can on your way. Stuck on hold? Declutter any surface near you, throw something away from the junk drawer, wipe off a table or fold some laundry. Straighten up your desk while that website loads. Wipe out the sink with the washcloth you just used on Junior’s face. Pick up trash in the car while you are at a red light. These little acts add up quickly and reduce the frustration of mess & ‘waiting’.

“Let cleaners work for you.” No, not the kind you hire (but that is nice if you can do it), the kind you buy in the store. Be sure you read the instructions before using–as in the bathroom cleaner that needs to sit for 3 minutes before scrubbing. If you are going to use the product, use it so that it works for you. Look for and consider products that make cleaning easier. Automatic shower cleaners can do a passable job if used regularly. Battery operated sweepers are lighter than vacuums, pick up small particles well & can be used by children. Vacuum any floor surface you have–it is usually faster than sweeping. Wool dusters are fast and effective on a wide variety of surfaces. Good old-fashioned powdered cleansers like Comet work incredibly well and are cheap. Keep duplicate cleaning supplies where you need them. No one wants to drag the toilet bowl brush from bathroom to bathroom.

“Child labor is a good thing.” Children of all ages learn valuable life skills, develop a work ethic and become more responsible when they are expected to help at home. Even the youngest children can learn to pick up their own toys, put their coat away, hang up their back pack, take small items to the trash and gradually learn all aspects of household maintenance. Begin early, set a good example and be consistent. Be certain that you teach the child how to do a job and provide them with child-appropriate tools & cleaners. Chore charts with clearly defined responsibilities are invaluable!

“Lists and calendars make the world go ’round.” Be certain that everyone uses them! Have a standard grocery list easily accessible and teach family members to mark down items that need to be purchased. Write down important tasks that need to be done. Leave notes for each other as reminders or just ‘I love yous’. Mark all events on the calendar and check it daily. Don’t forget to jot down birthdays, routine maintenance items, school programs, pharmacy refills, etc. Use post-it notes or whatever works for you to remember what you need to do, who you need to call, etc. Don’t run errands without a list. If your children are ‘forgetful’ when doing their chores, make a list of what is required to clean a room and place it in that room. Want to put something on the ‘frig? Purchase inexpensive strips of adhesive magnetic strips and any light weight item can be posted on a metal surface.

“Let someone else do the work.” Okay, most of us can’t get someone else to do all of our work, but whenever possible take advantage of programs and systems that take some of the work off of you. Some examples might be automatic prescription refill programs, automated reminder systems, pre-approved bill paying by credit card or through your checking account (be sure it is a reputable company), put yourself on lists for no junk mail & sales calls, subscription services for items you need on a regular basis (like water filters, items you mail order regularly, etc), and email reminder systems. Every item you can get ‘off your plate’ is one less item you need to deal with.

“Armies run on their stomachs — and so do families.” Keeping your family or yourself fed is a major user of time, energy and planning. One of the first priorities in organizing your home is to keep your kitchen clean and operational. Before cooking, have the dishwasher cleaned out so that you can put prep utensils in there as you cook. We’ll discuss the fine tuning of the kitchen in a later column, but keep in mind that if your kitchen and bathrooms are clean, you will find that the rest of your life runs smoother (and with less illness)!

“Get it off your plate–delegate.” Everyone should have responsibilities and you might need to let go of your own desire for perfection. No one member of the family should carry the whole burden. Break big jobs into small jobs and divide them up. Pitch in and don’t let yourselves get buried before you begin to dig out! If you really can’t keep up with the demands of your life/home/job, take a good hard look at all you are trying to accomplish. Maybe you need to streamline, pass on portions of the responsibility to others or re-order your priorities.

“Identify the problem, find the solution.” Look at where the ‘bottle necks’ and ‘break downs’ are in the functioning of your home. Think like an efficiency expert in a factory. Analyze each problem and see if you can come up with a system that automates what can be automated, organizes everything that can be organized and divides jobs up into ‘do-able’ portions. You may never have the time to deep clean the kitchen like a cleaning pro. But, you can empty the leftovers before trash day. Wipe down the door one day and the shelves another.

In the next few weeks, we will be examining each area of a typical home and discovering ways to make it run smoother. Excuses aside (we’re just too creative, too busy, too sick, too important, too whatever), it is possible for every family to have a home that is clean enough to be healthy, organized enough to be efficient and happy enough to be inviting. Sometimes, it just takes rethinking!

Whatever you call them, every individual and family should have gathered together the supplies needed to survive the first 72 to 96 hours after a disaster. Recommended by everyone from government to church leaders, it has been well established that the first several days following a disaster will find most individuals ‘on their own.’ Even after governmental and charitable organizations arrive, individuals often discover that there is NO Magic School Bus full of all of the comforts of home waiting to alleviate your suffering.

Okay, so you might say, “Come on, how many of us ever face a natural disaster of that magnitude?” True, chances are that you may never have to deal with the aftermath of a large scale natural disaster. BUT, you are quite likely to face a ‘personal disaster’ that will find you needing the supplies collected for a 72-hour kit. Think about blizzards, home fires, stranded due to a flat tire or mechanical failure, power outages, disruptions of public transportation, epidemics or even a bad case of the flu. The supplies recommended for a 72-hour kit can help you sail through the troubled waters of ‘personal disasters’ as well as large scale disasters.

With summer ending and hunting season beginning, now is the perfect time to scavange discount stores, sporting goods stores and clearance racks for items that will make your life easier. Remember to always ’shop your home’ first to see what you might already have.

The first rule of a 72-hour kit is to make it portable. Consider your personal limitations when deciding whether to use a backpack, rolling suitcase or wheeled tote. In some cases, you may have to move the kit without a vehicle.

Secondly, as you collect supplies, think about small, light weight, shelf stable, heat tolerant, versatile, compact and sturdy.

Package items in water-tight bags and avoid items that might leak, melt or damage other items. Some folks have reported that pop-top cans tend to leak more often than regular cans.

What to pack? You will be hoping to meet the basics of human survival–food, clothing, shelter, warmth and safety. Again, consider your personal needs and limitations. A basic kit should include at least the following:

1. Clothing. Change of clothing from the skin out, including extra socks & sturdy shoes. Think versatile, size adjustable, quick drying and layers. Rain poncho. If you are in a cold climate, include warm hat, gloves, scarf & keep a coat where you can reach it.
2. Bedding. Either a warm wool blanket or sleeping bag. ‘Space’ blankets are a nice addition.
3. Shelter. Tent or tarps & rope. Several small tents may be better for a family than one large, cumbersome tent. Even if you end up in a shelter, a tent can provide privacy & comfort. Also include extra rope and duct tape.
4. Food. Think high calorie, shelf-stable food that does not have to be cooked. MRE’s, power bars, canned foods such as meat, juice, fruit, veggies, peanut butter, hard candy, crackers & fruit leather are some good choices. Coast guard approved power bars have one of the longest shelf lives coupled with being able to tolerate a wider range of temperatures.
5. Water. Most experts recommend 1 gallon of water per person per day. Store easily accessible water near your kits. Include water purification and a canteen.
6. First Aid. Include airway protectors, gloves, antiseptic wipes & ointments, bandages, moleskin, tweezers, scissors, slings, ‘ace’ wraps, coflex tape, mask, butterfly closures, aspirin, tylenol, benadryl, syrup of ipecac, alcohol pads, instant ice packs, sunscreen, anti-diarrheals, lighter, magnifying glass and adhesive tape. BE CERTAIN THAT YOUR PERSONAL MEDS ARE EASILY REACHABLE AT ALL TIMES. YOU WILL WANT TO CARRY AT LEAST A SEVEN DAY SUPPLY IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.
7. Cooking, light and heat. Fire starting devices (lighters, waterproof matches, steel wool & a 9-volt battery, flint & steel, fire stick), flashlight with batteries (store separately), glow sticks — often available NOW in Halloween supplies — candles, can opener, lanterns, mess kit, fixed & folding blade knives, lightweight stove & fuel. KEEP A LIGHT SOURCE AT THE TOP OR OTHER EASILY ACCESSIBLE POINT IN YOUR KIT.
8. Sanitary supplies, including female hygiene. Toilet paper, bar soap, razor, toothbrush & paste, dental floss (can be used for a variety of things) handwipes, plastic garbage bags, denture adhesive, diapers, etc. as needed.
9. Plastic sheeting. Can be used for shelter, repairs, weather proofing, sanitary needs and water collection/purification.
10. Money. At least $50 in SMALL bills plus several dollars in quarters & dimes. A mini-M&M container can hold $5 worth of quarters and a large number of bills tightly wound.
11. Personal paperwork. Include copies of important papers (photocopy, reduce & laminate if you wish), your contact plan, insurance companies & family phone numbers. A 3×5 card should be included in each kit that includes person’s name, home address, emergency contacts, parent’s name (for children), important medical history & allergies.
12. Communication. Battery operated radio, instant cell phone charger, small lightweight emergency banners, whistle, non-breakable mirror, pen, ’sharpie, & paper. Brightly colored duct tape can be used for signals.
13. Wire for binding, strapping and animal snares.
14. Emergency info, including first aid & FEMA pamphlets, studied beforehand. A road atlas & field/survival guides are also great.
15. Sewing Kit. Extremely sharp, thin needles–straight and curved (can be used for suturing if necessary), good quality sewing & quilting thread, safety pins, snaps, & buttons.
16. Distraction. Scriptures, small games, playing cards, pencil, paper, etc.
17. Infants, elderly & disabled. Analyze what you might need for anyone with special needs & include in kit.

Many of these items can be shared between family members. Though the list seems long, you may find that many of the items are already in your home. When you centrally locate them, these rarely used items will be easier to find AND available in the case of an evacuation/disaster. Begin with what you have and slowly add items as you acquire them.

Smaller kits should also be placed in your cars and your workplace. In many disasters, those at work may need to ’shelter in place’ until transportation is re-established.

Commercial kits are available, but the contents are often less than the best quality and must still be customized for your needs. For instance, one kit advertises ‘tube tents’ for shelter. The ‘tube tent’ is merely a lightweight piece of plastic sheeting that forms a tube. Thin, inexpensive rope is included that you are supposed to run through the tube to form a triangle. There are no end flaps and the plastic is too thin to withstand the sun, wind or rain for any length of time.

Store your kit where it is easily accessible. Consider placing a checklist on the outside of the kit, reminding you to grab items (if you have time) that may not be included, such as extra water, medications, extra equipment, etc.

Depending on the shelf life of your food, you will need to rotate items periodically. Be certain to check the clothing for fit and suitability.

Planning for tomorrow should include scenarios we all hope we never face! Facing those potential scenarios now will allow us to great tomorrow well prepared, no matter what it brings.

September is National Preparedness Month (also National Sewing Month) and in honor of this month long celebration of all things prepared, let’s all commit to make and keep at least ONE goal related to our overall preparedness status. Before welcoming in the upcoming holiday season, use September to analyze your current state of affairs and find at least one area in which you could improve. Make a plan and follow through with it! Over achievers, or simply truly concerned folks, might go for a goal a week.

National Preparedness Month can be a family affair. Simply assign different family members different goals to accomplish. Or have each family member learn one new skill and then share it with others.

To get you going, here a few of possibilities:

• Winter preparation: Check roofing, downspouts, chimney, driveways, drainage areas, basement, supply of de-icing chemicals & equipment, car tires, preparations for being snowed or iced ‘in’, supplies in case your power is out (such as candles, flashlights, warm clothing, alternative heat source, phones, batteries, etc), well sealed windows & doors, sidewalks and weakened tree limbs.
• Food storage: Do you have at least a 3-month supply of food in your house? A year’s supply of necessities? Two weeks worth of food you could eat with little or no power? Are your supplies well organized? Have you checked expiration dates lately?
• ‘Bug Out’ or 72-hour kits: Double check food, clothing and other supplies. Consider a small one for your office and car. Rotate what needs to be rotated. If you don’t have one, assemble one this month.
• Financial preparedness: Review your current benefits to be certain that you have the appropriate beneficiaries on life insurance, 401K, retirement plans, IRA accounts, etc. Are your records up to date? Securely filed? Taxes on target? What about debt load? If in debt, are you working to get out of it as quickly as possible? Could you trim expenses to save more? Is your resume up to date? Are you constantly looking for jobs in case you loose the one you have? Have you reviewed your budget lately to see where your money is going? Do you have adequate cash available for emergencies?
• What emergencies might you face? What natural or man-made disasters might your area experience? What can you do to prepare? How would you be warned or forewarned? If you had to evacuate where would you go? Thinking through the possibilities and planning ahead can save panic, indecision and unnecessary delays.
• Paper prepared? Are your important ‘paper’s in order? Can you grab them quickly? Does someone else know where you store vital information? Do you have a will or trust? (PLEASE get one now!) Guardians for your children? If you don’t have one, prepare a ‘What If? Notebook’. If you have one, update it.
• Workplace preparedness? Do you have a mini-’bug out’ kit at work? Do you know your company’s telecommuting policy in the event of snow or similar events that might make it impossible for you to get to work? Is there an evacuation plan? Fire safety plan? What if you had to evacuate—where would you go? How would you get home if you could not return to your vehicle? What if public transportation were disrupted? If you can’t get home, how will you contact your family? Take care of children or other dependents?
• Special needs preparedness. Do you have family members who may need special help during an emergency?  Are medications handy? Do you keep at least a four day supply, two weeks is better? Are there family members with mobility or cognitive disorders? How will their needs be met in a variety of emergencies? Is there equipment that requires electricity? Is there a care plan if the caregiver is disabled or cannot get home?
• Home Safety Audit. Check your home carefully for loose wiring, inappropriate extension cords, broken tiles, lack of childproofing where there should be, wobbly furniture, loose hand rails, electrical issues, cracked windows, doors that jam, leaks, temperature of hot water…be your own worst critic and see what you can find that should be fixed.
• Skills. What could you learn this month that would help you live more providently? Sewing? (It is National Sewing Month after all) Cooking? Baking? Canning? Gardening? Food preservation? Home repair? Budgeting? Job skills? First Aid? CPR? Alternative fuels? Alternative cooking methods? Bargain shopping? Re-purposing?
• Education. Are you continuing to learn? Are you helping your children develop a love of learning? What about a realistic view of college & the earning potential of different degrees? Vocational skills as a back up? Or a primary career path? Are you in touch with your children’s teachers? How safe is their school environment? What if the school is evacuated?
• Clean up! Clean out closets, donating what you do not use or ‘re-purpose (up-cycling is the cool phrase) it into something useful. Give your home a thorough clean out, dusting away summer’s dust. Check for signs of bugs or other unwelcome guests. Toss out out-dated medications. Get your home organized!
• Make a plan for holiday gift giving and associated expenses. Determine your budget NOW and then make a plan to accomplish all you need to before that ‘holly jolly budget-draining’ time of year is upon you. While cleaning your house, you might keep an eye out for items that may have been tucked away for a gift-giving occasion! If you plan on making gifts, now is the time to get started.

The possibilities are absolutely endless and there is abundant information available for free!  Any progress you make is wonderful, so pat yourself on the back and remember that provident living is not a one-time event, but a lifestyle!

It is the time of year when the call of new yellow pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers and a long laundry list of supplies is haunting your mind as you prepare for the return of the school year. Nearly everyone returning to school will include in their shopping list a backpack. For most students, the foremost criteria for choosing a backpack is how attractive, ‘in’ or ‘cool’ the backpack looks. But, it is becomingly increasingly common for students (and not just students) of all ages to incur a variety of injuries, pain and damage due to improperly designed, fitted, loaded and carried backpacks. How do you choose and use a backpack so that it is a help not a hindrance? And what added items should you include to promote a safe school year?

First, let’s go shopping!

• Don’t fail to look at sporting goods and outdoor outfitters (such as LL Bean) for high quality, durable and well made backpacks. A few extra dollars now and a bit of care along the way may prove your best investment.
• If you are carrying a laptop or netbook, be certain that the backpack has, or will hold, a protective sleeve for your electronics.
• Choose a backpack with wide, padded and adjustable straps. Be certain that the wearer can adjust the pack so that the majority of the weight is carried along the back of the shoulder line.

• If the pack is going to weigh more than a few pounds (less than 7% of the wearer’s weight), choose a backpack with a waist belt which will help equalize the pressure on the spine, shoulders and neck.
• Purchase or add reflective tape so that the wearer is more easily seen in the dark.
• Look for a backpack with easy to reach pockets, especially for small items that the wearer may want to access without taking off the backpack.
• An ergonomically designed backpack will conform the proper alignment of the spine.

Now that you have purchased a great, back-saving backpack, let’s pack it up!

• Do not fill the backpack to more than 15% of the wearer’s body weight.
• Keep identifying information inside the backpack. If the design is a common one and you want to easily identify your backpack, personalize it with a charm, patch or other identifier that does not include your name or other personal information.
• Distribute items so that the weight is evenly distributed. Falls occur frequently when backpack wearers are ‘out of balance’ due to shifting or unevenly distributed loads
• Be certain to include an ID card in the backpack. Include name, emergency contact info, important health information, etc. Place this card INSIDE the backpack where it is not easily seen.
• Pack sharp objects, even sharpened pencils, where they will not weaken the fabric or seams.
• Periodically clean out the backpack and be certain you are not carrying items you do not need.
• For YOUNG CHILDREN, you might want to have a specially marked pocket for papers you need to read, sign, etc.
• Older students, if allowed, might carry a small power bar, granola bar or other ‘emergency food’, water & a tiny flashlight. College students and commuters may want to carry water, a bit of money in small bills, a small flashlight and necessary medications.

You are packed up and ready to go…time to lift and carry that backpack properly!

• Learn to pick up your backpack as you would any heavy object. Bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back.
• Do not ’sling’ your backpack onto your back. It is not good for you and you may hit someone behind or beside you!
• Carefully put on one shoulder strap on at a time. Be certain the straps are adjusted so that the majority of the weight is on your upper back—just below the shoulder line. It may look cool to have your backpack slung low on your back, but you are causing harm to yourself!
• If you have to stoop over with the weight of the backpack in order to carry it, that backpack is TOO heavy!
• NEVER NEVER carry your backpack on one shoulder. Doing so not only causes your spine to be at an unnatural angle, you may unevenly develop muscles in your shoulders and chest. This uneven distribution of muscle mass can become unsightly AND pull other parts of your body out of whack.
• Carrying your backpack on your front is not better for your back than carrying it on the back. Either way, the backpack needs to be aligned, packed and carried appropriately.
• Fasten the waist buckle, especially if the backpack is 15% of your body weight! Let your entire torso share in carrying the load.
• While carrying your backpack, walk with good posture! Stand up straight with your shoulders back.
• If someone should grab your backpack, immediately ask them to stop. Injuries occur when friends or others jokingly add their own weight to that of your backpack.
• If at all possible, remove the backpack near a surface about table level. With your back to the table, remove one shoulder strap at a time and lower the backpack down your back to the table.
• When you get home, keep your backpack off of kitchen counters or other surfaces where food is prepared or served.

The essence of provident living is to always live today while preparing for whatever tomorrow brings. Preventing, rather than treating, injuries is the best way to be prepared everyday!

Comment from a physician: The really sad part is the failure rate for back surgeries. I’ve seen a lot of patients with multiple surgeries, no relief from the pain, and even some who got worse after the surgery. There’s even a specific diagnostic code for ‘failed back surgery’ cause it’s that common. Good advice to review!

Tim

For thousands and thousands of young adults, the end of summer heralds the beginning of their life as a college student. Whether you are a student or the parent of a student, take a few minutes to think through and prepare for this important and challenging time of life. In addition to tuition, housing, books and challenge of potentially living independently for the first time in their lives, college bound students should also consider a few ‘provident pointers’ of their own:

• Cell phone: Everyone seems to have one and they can be a true life line. Before purchasing a new phone or plan, be certain that the phone is usable/has coverage on the college campus. It is often wise to include the student’s phone in the family plan so that the student can call family members frequently.
• Banking: Open accounts that are convenient for the student and possibly the parents. Every student should be familiar with ATM safety and the safe guarding of personal information. A small personal shredder is a wise investment.
• Medical care: Find out now if your family health insurance covers the student away from home. Before signing up for student health insurance, be certain to read the fine print. Students might want to signing a medical power of attorney naming granting both parents the right to speak to medical providers concerning their care. Without such paperwork, providers are not legally allowed to discuss the student’s condition with anyone. Students should have a written copy of their medical history and current medications. For any ongoing medical issue, locate a physician near the college campus that will provide continuity of care.
• Personal safety. Many young adults are still in the ‘invincible’ phase of life. Others are trusting or believe that if they are headed to a religiously oriented school ‘all is well’. Review the importance of personal safety, including your photo & personal identity! Be self-confident, but aware. “The Gift Of Fear” is great pre-college reading for everyone.  Shred documents with personal information, safeguard belongings and avoid leaving expensive items unprotected. Be cautious about what you post online–never give your real name, make of car, schedule, school name, dorm name, etc. Predators will watch social networking sites and gather such information. Be smart!!
• Cars. If taking a car to school, be certain that their is adequate and well lit parking available. Obtain necessary parking permits, insurance coverage, a spare key, documents and emergency supplies for the car. Never overload a car or loan it to friends.
• Be space conscious. When planning what to take to that first dorm room, be certain that you know the capacity of the room! If possible, coordinate what will be brought with future room mates. Most dorm rooms are sadly lacking in space!
• Emergency preparedness. Pack a mini-72 hour kit for your dorm room. Be certain to have some well hidden cash, power bars, water, first aid supplies and basic medications.
• Debt. Remember that loans must be paid back. Review the true cost of credit and to limit their use student loans to absolutely necessary EDUCATIONAL expenses. Many college students are flooded with credit card offers and find themselves graduating with staggering debt loads.
• Life Skills. Every student should know the basics of laundry, healthy eating, financial record keeping, smart shopping, cooking, first aid and cleaning before heading off to college.
• Textbooks. Before shelling out a small fortune for textbooks, check carefully for used books. Check online sources for cheaper books–the savings can be substantial. Keep receipts for all books you purchase in case you drop a class! Keep your books in good condition and sell them back at the first opportunity (or sell them privately).
• Hand Washing & Health. Get in the habit of washing your hands often and well. This is your best defense about a wide variety of ailments. Take good care of your body–get enough sleep, eat well and sleep an adequate amount.
• Conflict. Learn how to peacefully resolve conflict–whether it is with your room mate, study group, classmates or friends.
• Stay connected. Stay connected with your family, life long friends and church. Though college is a time to begin ‘adult life,’ the anchors that have kept you steady are a source of strength, guidance and wisdom that you will need more than ever.

The college years are exciting and challenging. Good decisions, wise planning and some self-discipline will pave the way for success now and in the future!

“Bless you!” “Gesundheit!” “Need a tissue?” Are you hearing these comments to often this Spring? It could be that you are one of the countless victims of a record-setting Spring allergy season. Nearly every state is reporting significant increases in the number of people suffering from seasonal allergies, including many who have never been previously afflicted.

Though you cannot lower the pollen count outside, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the impact you feel. Also remember that the typical symptoms of allergies, runny nose, sneezing, itching, eyes watering, may seem to be no more than a nuisance, inflamed nasal passages and congested sinus’ can lead to more serious issues such as sinus infections, respiratory involvement and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. Consult your physician if your symptoms are not under control or suddenly worsen.

In the meantime, try these simple methods of gaining some relief from the down side of Spring’s splendor:

1. Make your bed every morning. I know, I know this sounds like your Mom speaking. Simply throwing the bedspread up over your pillows keeps a certain amount of dust and pollen from your pillow.

2. Frequently launder your bedding, including the mattress pad.

3. Shower before you go to bed and wash your hair. Your body & hair collect pollen all through the day. Don’t go to bed with it.

4. Keep your windows shut in the car & house, especially in the early morning and evening. Use your a/c and frequently change the filters.

5. Use nasal cleaning devices such as a Neti pot or saline spray. Spritzing out your nasal passages removes dust and pollen as it first enters the body. Be sure to ask your doctor first if you have chronic sinus problems and discontinue if you experience pain. Some people have very narrow sinus passages or other physiological issues that make using a Neti pot inadvisable.

6. Launder your clothing frequently. Don’t rehang clothing in your closet that you have worn in high pollen areas.

7. Frequently wash your dog. If you family has serious allergies, consider getting rid of hairy pets. Even if you are not allergic to the pet, the animal’s fur carries pollen, et al into your house and deposits it everywhere.

8. Invest in appropriate pillow and mattress covers that prevent the build up of allergens.

9. In the case of serious allergies, consider removing as many fibers as possible from sleeping areas. This includes carpet, drapery, bed drapings, etc.

10. Dust frequently with a damp or electrostatically charged micro-fiber cloth that traps dust instead of spreading it about.

11. Invest in a vacuum with a good HEPA filter. Vacuum frequently.

12. Remove dead leaves and other lingering vegetation from around your house. Last fall’s leaves are growing mold! If you are the allergy sufferer, have someone else do this job or wear a respirator.

13. Sanitize your shower curtains and bathrooms frequently to remove mold and mildew spores. Adding salt to the rinse cycle can cut down on mold & mildew.

14. Remove as many dyes, phospates and fragrances from your home that you can possibly manage. This includes laundry detergents, dryer sheets, fabric softeners, air fresheners, ‘plug-ins’, deodorants, shampoos, soaps, etc. Consider using ‘old fashioned’ cleaning solutions such as baking soda, salt, vinegar, borax and plain old elbow grease!

15. Reduce the clutter so that you can dust and vacuum with less hassle.

Remember, there are a wide range of allergy products available by prescription and over-the-counter. Be certain to speak with your healthcare provider about what options may be open to you!

And try to enjoy the Spring foliage!

For all of us in developed nations, we take for granted the availability of clean, safe drinking water. Whether we drink water from the tap or purchase bottled water, we rarely consider the consequences of not having safe water on hand. However, in many parts of the world, and following a wide range of disasters, safe drinking water is a luxury. The H2O that so freely flows from our taps can be cut off due to any number of natural or man-made disasters.

Being able to easily and safely decontaminate water is an essential skill for everyone. Though you can use a variety of methods (including boiling, chemical treatment or distillation), one group has developed what may be the simplest method to date.

SODIS (Solar Water Disinfection) has been proven to kill the germs which cause human illness. By learning this simple technique, you can be assured that you will be able to purify questionable water in nearly any circumstance. Whether you are camping, dealing with a disaster or traveling in a country with questionable water, this method can literally save your life.

In order to effectively disinfect water, you must begin with fairly clear water. If the water has debris, sand, dirt, etc in it, strain it repeatedly until it is clear. Place water in a clean PET bottle (such as juice or water comes in) that holds 3 liters or less. The bottle must be clear or have only a slight blue tinge to it. You must remove the label from the bottle and be certain that the bottle does not have a large number of scratches or other discolorations on it.

Once filled, tighten the lid securely. Place the bottle lying down in FULL sun for at least 6 hours. It is critical that the bottle be lying down, NOT standing up. If possible, place the bottle on a reflective surface such as a piece of tin or aluminum. Though not necessary, the reflective surface will speed up the disinfection process. If the day is cloudy, lengthen the time to 48 hours. If there is a cool or cold wind blowing, shelter the bottles from the wind.

Water that has been treated by this method should be drunk from the bottle or poured into a clean cup. Contamination often occurs when the water is poured from the bottle into a less-than-clean drinking container.

Storing a few clear plastic PET bottles (which should be marked as such) is a simple, inexpensive way to be prepared to purify that most essential of liquids-water.

For more information about this process and a downloadable flyer, visit:

http://www.sodis.ch/index_EN

One of the most common medical errors that can lead to serious illness or even death is one that you can help prevent. Approximately 1.3 million Americans are injured annually due to errors in the administration of medications. Though many of these errors occur in hospital settings, many occur in our own homes. The vast majority of these errors can be prevented by YOU and those you love. What can you do to protect yourself?

1. Know that the elderly and chronically ill are the most likely to be victims of medication errors. Both groups are most likely to have a larger than average number of prescription medications prescribed for them.

2. Children may be at a higher risk because their smaller body size makes it more likely that a dosing or drug interaction error will cause serious harm or death.

3. FULLY UNDERSTAND that medication errors can be fatal.

4. When prescribed a medication, be certain that the doctor explains why you are being prescribed this medication, what the medication should do for you, what the side effects are and how you should take the medication. For instance, should it be taken with meals, before a meal, at bedtime, etc.

5. Always provide every health care professional (including the pharmacist) with a complete list of ALL prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, herbal products, homeopathic remedies and vitamins that you take. Include the name of the medication, the dosage, how long you have been taking it and the medication’s use.

6. Understand that there is limited, peer-reviewed science based research into the interaction of herbal products, supplements and homepathic remedies. Most of these substances are NOT tested by independent peer-reviewed research nor their quality and potency regulated. Be certain that you fully research any ‘natural’ product that is recommended to you. Many of these products are the ‘natural’ version of powerful prescription medications. For instance, foxglove is merely natural digitalis, which can alter heart rhythms. Echinacea can lead to permanent liver damage, especially if used in combination with other medications/supplements. Prescription medications can interact with a wide range of products and there is, again, limited knowledge as to the interaction of prescription (or over-the-counter medications) and ‘alternative therapies’. Even simple vitamins can lead to overdoses and drug interactions.

7. Before taking a new medication, know how the drug is supposed to help you and all possible side effects.

8. Know what your medications look like. If you receive a new prescription and the medication looks different, do not take it until you speak with a pharmacist. Preferably, the pharmacy will have alerted you to a change in the appearance of your medication.

9. If hospitalized, ask what each medication you are being given is and what it is for. Competent staff will tell you the name of the medication before giving it to you. If they do not, be extra cautious. Again, if the medication looks different than what you normally see, ask!! Know what the dosage prescribed is. If something seems ‘off’, stop and ask to speak to a supervisor. My daughter was nearly killed in a hospital when a nurse attempted to administer 100 times the prescribed dose of a pain killer. The nurse had ‘misread’ where the decimal point was.

10. If the dosage and frequency of taking a medication is different than your physician told you, ASK questions!

11. Be certain that you are taking your medications exactly as prescribed. Regularly review the instructions on your prescription bottles!

12. If you take multiple medications, or care for someone who does, consider using a medication minder container. Many types are available at a variety of price points. These specially designed containers can be a great help in being certain that you are taking your medications as prescribed. This is vitally important for the elderly or anyone who may have memory issues.

13. Periodically review with your physician the medications you are taking. Each office visit should include a review of your medication, including when you need a new prescription written. Again, the elderly are most likely to have too many medications prescribed for them, often creating secondary problems. If a new symptom appears, ask the pharmacist if this could be a reaction to a medication.

14. When prescribed a medication, ask if there is a generic alternative which may save you money. Often, prescribers will merely write for the newest medication when an older, proven medication may work just as well. Also ask if there is an alternative to medication. Could you achieve the same results through lifestyle or diet changes?

15. Choose carefully and use one pharmacy for all of your prescriptions. Some points to consider when choosing a pharmacy:

• Is there a pharmacist available to answer all of your questions?
• Know the role of pharmacy technicians. Though they may perform many tasks within a pharmacy, including accepting prescriptions from you, they should not be answering questions about your medication’s interactions, uses and side effects.
• Does the pharmacist have time to talk to you in person or on the phone? If not, they may be over-worked which leads to more errors. Some pharmacies evaluate pharmacists on the number or prescriptions they fill per hour, not the number of customers they serve.
• Does the pharmacist answer your questions about drug interactions? If you are on medications for serious pain, heart problems, liver disease or kidney disease (or other serious long-term illnesses), be certain that you ask the pharmacist before taking over-the-counter, herbal or supplement preparations. Pharmacists should be able to answer your questions, with the exception of some herbal & ‘natural’ remedies that have not been well researched.
• Is the pharmacy efficient? Are prescriptions filled when they say they will be? An efficient pharmacy should be able to estimate when your prescription will be ready and alert you to possible delays. If they are chronically misrepresenting the time it will take to fill a prescription, they may be over-worked, under-staffed and more prone to errors.
• Can you understand the pharmacist? You should be able to freely communicate with this important member of your health care team!
• Be certain that the pharmacy has up-to-date software that warns of drug interactions, low/high dose alerts, LASA error checking (Look alike/sound alike) and patient allergies. Be certain that the pharmacist is aware of your drug and food allergies. Some food allergies can significantly impact the medications you can be prescribed.
• Is the pharmacy concerned with your privacy? Pharmacy staff should never announce the medication they are filling for you in a way that others might over hear.
• Does the pharmacy alert you when the appearance of your medication has changed?
• Does the pharmacy provide you with an information sheet that describes the appearance of your medication, possible side effects and uses of the medication?
• Does your pharmacy communicate efficiently with your physician’s office? Some communication errors are due to delays in the doctor’s office, but pharmacy staff should be able to up date you on their progress.
• Does your pharmacist relay information to you effectively? If they say they will get back to you, do they? Do they call you if there is a problem with a refill?
• Will your pharmacist attempt to answer your questions with research? We have had multiple times where a great pharmacist will go to extraordinary lengths to be certain that a medication is safe. This has included the pharmacist calling the pharmaceutical company for further information. This type of dedication can, literally, safe your life and you SHOULD EXPECT IT!
• Remember that the pharmacist is your safe guard when it comes to medications! They should have the most up-to-date and effective means by which you can be protected from possible allergic reactions or drug interactions. They are the trained professional when it comes to medication management!

16. Keep your medication information confidential and safe. Remove prescription labels from empty bottles before discarding. Likewise, shred information sheets or other paperwork that details what medications are in your home. Do not discuss publicly or post online medications you take. Theft of prescription drugs is on the rise.

17. Teach your children to never take medication (again, including ‘natural’ products) from someone other than you or a licensed health care professional.

18. Discard of out dated medications safely. Be especially vigilant about medications you may not take regularly, such as epi-pens or inhalers. Check their expiration date and get refills when needed.

19. Store your medicaitons safely. Know if the medication needs to be refrigerated. In general, most medications need to be protected from moisture, light and extremes in temperature.

20. Don’t run out! Be certain to carry vital medications with you and refill your prescriptions BEFORE you run out. Most insurers will allow you to refill a prescription seven days prior to the day you will run out.

21. KEEP YOUR MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE HANDS OF CHILDREN! Keep all medications, including vitamins, away from children. Be certain that visitors to your home safe guard any medication they have. Many children suffer overdoses while exploring Grandma’s luggage or purse.

Though there are many medical errors we cannot prevent, medication errors can often be prevented through our own vigilance, common sense and just a bit of time. Be wise, be cautious and be healthy!