Learn some electrical safety tips, find out how to get involved in National Preparedness Month in September, and find out the differences between heat-related illnesses.

1. Health and Safety Podcast July 28, 2010

2. Topics July 28, 2010: Electrical safety tips. National Preparedness Month. Heat-related Illnesses.

3. Electrical Safety Electrical safety tips from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department: Inspect electrical cords. Replace or repair loose or frayed cords. Avoid overloading outlets.

4. Electrical Safety If your power goes out a lot or the lights flicker, smell bad or make noise, have an electrician inspect the wiring. Electrical outlets in the bathroom should have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) that protects you from dangerous shock when water and electricity come together.

5. Electrical Safety All electrical outlets and switches should be covered by “face plates.” Avoid “cube taps” and other devices that allow connecting multiple appliances into a single receptacle. Consider additional circuits or outlets so you do not have to use extension cords.

6. Electrical Safety Don’t tie or knot electrical cords. Don’t let furniture sit on electrical cords. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plugging an appliance into a receptacle outlet. More fire safety information is at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr

7. National Preparedness Month September is National Preparedness Month Organizations can join the National Preparedness Month Coalition – register at ready.adcouncil.org. To learn more about National Preparedness Month, visit www.ready.gov.

8. Heat-related Illnesses Sunburn: Can cause swelling, blisters, fever and headaches. Take a shower using soap to remove oils that may block pores, preventing the body from cooling naturally. Apply dry, sterile dressings to blisters; if they persist, see a doctor.

9. Heat-related Illnesses Heat Cramps: Painful spasms, usually in leg and abdominal muscles, and may be accompanied by heavy sweating.

10. Heat-related Illnesses Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms includeheavy sweating, but skin may be cool, pale or flushed. Fainting or dizziness, weak pulse, nausea, vomiting, exhaustion and headaches may occur. Sit or lie down in a cool place, loosen your clothing and sip half a glass of water every 15 minutes.

11. Heat-related Illnesses Heat Stroke: A severe medical emergency and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include a high body temperature, as much as 105 degrees; hot, red, dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; rapid shallow breathing; and possible loss of consciousness.

12. Additional Information www.fairfaxcounty.gov www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergency 9-1-1 – Emergency police, fire, medical. 703-691-2131 – Non-emergency.