April 20 2020
By: Terry L. Mathis
We are staying home to be safe from a virus, but what other dangers lurk in our homes? According to National Safety Council, MOST unintentional injury-related deaths occur off the job. This quarantine is not only a time to assess your potential risks at home but a great opportunity to teach your family members how to manage their own personal safety. Begin by focusing on the most common risks that have historically caused death off the job.
For decades motor vehicle crashes were number one, but in 2011 poisoning overtook them as the leading cause of death. Motor vehicle crashes will be minimal as travel is curtailed but may increase again as we begin driving after a period of staying at home.
Falls are the next big danger followed by choking and suffocation, drowning, fires and burns.
Do your family members know how to recognize these hazards and how to manage them? Home schooling might be a good opportunity to teach such practical skills. Perhaps, next to keeping your loved ones well and COVID-19 free, the next greatest gift you could give them is an accident-free future.
Terry Mathis, Founder and retired CEO of ProAct Safety, has served as a consultant and advisor for top organizations the world over. A respected strategist and thought leader, Terry has authored five books, numerous articles, videos and blogs, and is known for his dynamic and engaging presentations. EHS Today has named him one of the '50 People Who Most Influenced EHS' four consecutive times. Business leaders and safety professionals seek Terry's practical insight and unique ability to introduce new perspectives that lead to real change.
