ISS Sharack NX-15

Allergic Reactions can be triggered by foods, medications, insect stings, pollen or other substances. Although most allergic reactions aren't serious, severe reactions can be lifethreatening and can require immediate medical attention.
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Signs and Symptoms: Mild Reaction
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-- itchiness
--mild skin redness
--mild swelling
--stuffy, runny nose
--sneezing
--itchy,watery eyes
--red bumps (hives) that occur anywhere
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Severe Reaction
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--swelling of the face or mouth
--difficulty swallowing or speaking
--wheezing or difficulty breathing
--abdominal pain,nausea, vomitting, or diarrhea
--dizziness or fainting
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WHAT TO DO:

1) Contact a doctor if a child has an allergic reaction that is more than mild or the reaction concerns you.

2) If the child has symptoms of a mild reaction, give an oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine.

3) If the child has symptoms of a severe allergic reaction and you have injectable epinephrine, immediately use it as directed and call for emergency medical help.
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SEEK Emergency Medical care if the child:
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- has aany symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.

- was exposed to a food or substance hat has triggered a severe reaction in the past

- was given injectable epinephrine

Animal Bites
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Animal bites and scratches that break the skin can cause infection. Rarely, animal bites ( particularly from wild animals ) can cause rabies, a dangerous, life threatening disease.
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What to Do:

1) Wash the area with soap and water, and apply pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth if the wound is bleeding. ( Do not apply an antiseptic or anything else to the wound.)

2) Cover the area with a bandage or sterile gauze.
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Seek medical care if the child:

- was bitten by a wild or stray animal, or any animal that hasn't recently had rabies shots or is acting strangely.
- was in close contact with a bat even if you don't see a bit mark
- has a bit that punctured or broke the skin.
- was bitten on the face, neck or hand, foot or near a joint.
- has a bite or scratch that's becoming red, hot, swollen, or increasingly painful
- is behind on shots or hasn't had a recent tetanus shot
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When seeking treatment, have the following information on hand:

- the kind of animal that bit the child
- the date of the animal's last rabies vaccination, if known
- any recent unusual behavior by the animal
- the animal's location ( address, if known 0
- if the animal was a stray or wild one or was captured by a local animal control service
- the child's immunization ( shots ) record
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Think Prevention!

- Many aniamalsbites are preventable. Always supervise young children around animals, even pets. Teach kids to handle pets gently and to stay away from wild animals. Kids should never tease pets and never feed wild or stay animals.

BROKEN BONES
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-You or your child may have a broken bone, if either of you heard a snap or a grinding noise during the injury.
- there is swelling,bruising, tenderness, or a feeling of " pins and neeles "
- it's painful to bear weight on the injured area or to move it
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What To Do??
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-- Remove clothing from the injured part
-- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in cloth.
-- Keep the injured limb in the position you find it
--Seek medical care, and don't allow the adult or child to eat, in case surgery is needed
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Do Not move the adult or child-- and call for emergency medical care- if;
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- the adult or child has a serious injury to the head, neck or back
- a broken bone comes through the skin ( apply constant pressure with a clean gauze pad or thick cloth, and kep the adult or child lying down until help arrives; do not wash the wound or push in any part of the bone that is sticking out)

Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. But before you and the kids rush out and start pedaling, there's an important factor that you need to consider — safety.
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Bicycle helmet use should not be optional for anyone in your family, no matter where you are or how short the ride. In many states it's the law.

Here's why: Most bike accidents involve a head injury, so a crash could mean permanent brain damage or death for someone who doesn't wear one while riding. In fact, each year in the United States, about half a million kids are seriously injured in bicycle-related accidents, and most of those injuries could have been avoided if a helmet was worn.

Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a helmet:

Pick bright colors that are visible to drivers and other cyclists.
Look for a helmet that's well ventilated.
Make sure that the helmet has a CPSC or Snell sticker inside. These indicate that the helmet meets standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the Snell Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit group that tests helmet safety.
Make sure your child's helmet fits correctly and can be adjusted
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You should be able to get help finding a well-fitting helmet and adjusting it properly at any bicycle store.

When kids wear a helmet, make sure that the straps are fastened. Also make sure they don't wear any other hat underneath it.

Be sure to replace any helmet made before 1999. If your child hits any surface hard while wearing a helmet, replace it — helmets lose their capacity to absorb shock after taking serious hits.

A few bike helmets can be used as protection for other activities, but in general, they're best suited to biking. Most helmets are made for one specific type of activity — for example, special helmets also are made for inline skating, baseball, and snowmobiling.

Kids should not wear any helmet when they're on a playground or climbing a tree — there is a risk of strangulation from the chin strap during these types of activities.
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Safe Clothing
What kids wear when riding a bike is also very important for safety:

--Fluorescent or bright-colored clothes will help kids be visible on the road. (Avoid dark clothes, especially during early dusk and twilight hours.)

--Lightweight clothes will help them avoid becoming overheated.

--Pant legs shouldn't be too loose-fitting or flared. These can get caught up in the chain while riding.

--If your child wears a backpack while riding, make sure the straps are tied up and can't get tangled in the spokes of the wheels.

--Choose shoes that grip the bike's pedals. Cleats, shoes with heels, or flip-flops can all create problems while riding. Kids should never ride barefoot!
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Rules of the Road for Bike Riding
Here are some must-know safety tips to teach kids:

--Stop at all stop signs and obey traffic lights just as cars do. Yield to pedestrians, stop at red lights, and be especially careful at intersections.

--Always ride in the same direction as cars do. Never ride against traffic.

-Try to use bike lanes or designated bike routes whenever you can — not the sidewalk!

-Never ride at dusk or in the dark.

-Always stop and check for traffic in both directions when leaving a driveway, an alley, or a curb.

-Watch traffic closely for turning cars or cars leaving driveways.

-Don't ride too close to parked cars — doors can open suddenly.

-Always walk a bike across busy intersections using the crosswalk and following traffic signals.

-When riding in a group, always ride single file on the street.

-When passing other bikers or people on the street, always pass to their left and call out "On your left!" so they'll watch for you.

-Never share the seat with a friend or ride on the handlebars — only one person should be on a bike at a time. It's easy to lose balance or suddenly swerve into traffic when riding with a passenger.

-Never wear headphones while biking — it's essential to hear everyone else on the road at all times.

-Never stand up while riding a bike.

-Never hitch a ride on a moving vehicle.

-Never change directions or lanes without first looking behind you, and always use the correct hand signals. Use your left arm for all hand signals:
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--Left turn: After checking behind you, hold your arm straight out to the left and ride forward slowly.

--Stop: After checking behind you, bend your elbow, pointing your arm downward in an upside down "L" shape and come to a stop.

--Right turn: After checking behind you, bend your elbow, holding your arm up in an "L" shape, and ride forward slowly. Or, hold your right arm straight out from your side.

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Bike Maintenance;

Check your child's bike at least once each season to keep it safe and well-maintained.

Be sure to check:

--tires — inflate to the pressure that's recommended on the sidewall of the tire

--chain — oil it regularly and remove dirt

--handlebars — adjust for height as your child grows and tighten all bolts

--brakes — check for frayed cables and replace worn-out brake pads

--seat — keep the seat level and adjust for height as needed

During hot, humid weather, the body's internal temperature can rise and can resault in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If not quickly treated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which requires immdeiate emergency medical care and can be fatal.
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Signs and Symptoms
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Heat Exhaustion;
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Severe thirst,
Muscle weakness,
Nausea ( sometimes vomitting ),
Fast shallow breathing,
Irritablilty,
Headache,
Increased sweating,
Cool, clammy skin,
Elevation of body temperature to less than 104 degrees Fahrenheit ( 40 degrees Celsius )
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Heatstroke:
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Sever, throbbing headache
Weakness, Dizziness,or Confusion
Difficulty breathing
Decreased Responsiveness or loss of consciousness
May not be sweating
Flushed, hot, dry skin
Elevation of body temperature to 104 degrees Fahrenheit ( 40 degrees Celsius or higher )
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What To Do :

If the child or adult has a temperature of 104 dgrees Fahrenheit ( 40 dgrees Celsius ) or more, or shows any symptoms of heatstroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. In cases of heat exhaustion and while awaiting help for a child or adult with possible heatstroke:

1) Bring the child or adult in doors or into the shade immediately.

2) Undress the child

3) Have the child or adult lay down; elevate feet slightly

4) If the child or adult is alert, place them in a cool ( not cold ) bath water, or sponge bathe the child or adult repeatedly. If outside spray the child or adult with mist from a garden hose.

5) If the child or adult is alert, give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids ( clear juices or sports drinks are best ).

6) If the child or adult is vomitting, turn his or her body to the side to pervent choking.

7) Monitor the child or adult 's temperature.
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Prevention!!

Always drink plenty of fluids before and during any activity in hot, sunny weather-- even if not thirsty. Make sure to wear light- colored loose clothing, do any heavy outdoor activities before noon or after 6pm. If feeling overheated go in doors immediately

We all need some sun exposure; it's our primary source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But it doesn't take much time in the sun for most people to get the vitamin D they need, and unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and even cancer. Even people in their 20s can develop skin cancer.

Most children rack up between 50% and 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18, so it's important that parents teach their children how to enjoy fun in the sun safely. With the right precautions, you can greatly reduce your child's chance of developing skin cancer.


We all need some sun exposure; it's our primary source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But it doesn't take much time in the sun for most people to get the vitamin D they need, and unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and even cancer. Even people in their 20s can develop skin cancer.


Most children rack up between 50% and 80% of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18, so it's important that parents teach their children how to enjoy fun in the sun safely. With the right precautions, you can greatly reduce your child's chance of developing skin cancer.

Facts About Sun Exposure
The sun radiates light to the earth, and part of that light consists of invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays. When these rays reach the skin, they cause tanning, burning, and other skin damage.
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Sunlight contains three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVA rays cause skin aging and wrinkling and contribute to skin cancer, such as melanoma. Because UVA rays pass effortlessly through the ozone layer (the protective layer of atmosphere, or shield, surrounding the earth), they make up the majority of our sun exposure. Beware of tanning beds because they use UVA rays. A UVA tan does not help protect the skin from further sun damage; it merely produces color and a false sense of protection from the sun.

UVB rays are also dangerous, causing sunburns, cataracts (clouding of the eye lens), and immune system damage. They also contribute to skin cancer. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is thought to be associated with severe UVB sunburns that occur before the age of 20. Most UVB rays are absorbed by the ozone layer, but enough of these rays pass through to cause serious damage.

UVC rays are the most dangerous, but fortunately, these rays are blocked by the ozone layer and don't reach the earth
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What's important is to protect your family from exposure to UVA and UVB, the rays that cause skin damage.

UV rays react with a chemical called melanin that's found in most people's skin. Melanin is your first defense against the sun. It absorbs dangerous UV rays before they do serious skin damage. Melanin is found in different concentrations and colors, resulting in different skin colors. The lighter your child's natural skin color, the less melanin it has to absorb UV and protect itself. The darker your child's natural skin color, the more melanin it has to protect itself. (But both dark- and light-skinned kids need protection from UV rays because any tanning or burning causes skin damage.) Also, people, especially kids, with fair complexions - lighter skin and eye color - are more likely to have freckles because there's less melanin in their skin. Although freckles are harmless, being outside in the sun may help cause them or make them darker.

As the melanin increases in response to sun exposure, the skin tans. But even that "healthy" tan may be a sign of sun damage. The risk of damage increases with the amount and intensity of exposure. Those who are chronically exposed to the sun, such as farmers, boaters, and sunbathers, are at much greater risk. A sunburn develops when the amount of UV exposure is greater than what can be protected against by the skin's melanin.
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Unprotected sun exposure is even more dangerous for kids with:

moles on their skin (or whose parents have a tendency to develop moles)
very fair skin and hair
a family history of skin cancer, including melanoma
You should be especially careful about sun protection if your child has one or more of these high-risk characteristics.

Also, not all sunlight is "equal" in UV concentration. The intensity of the sun's rays depends upon the time of year, as well as the altitude and latitude of your location. UV rays are strongest during summer. Remember that the timing of this season varies by location; if you travel to a foreign country during its summer season, you'll need to pack the strongest sun protection you can find.

Extra protection is also required near the equator, where the sun is strongest, and at high altitudes, where the air and cloud cover are thinner, allowing more damaging UV rays to get through the atmosphere. Even during winter months, if your family goes skiing in the mountains, be sure to apply plenty of sunscreen; UV rays reflect off both snow and water, increasing the probability of sunburn.
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How to Protect Your Child From the Sun
With the right precautions, kids can safely play in the sun. Here's the lowdown on the most effective strategies:

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Avoid the Strongest Rays of the Day

First, avoid being in the sun for prolonged times when it's highest overhead and therefore the strongest (normally from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM in the northern hemisphere). If your child is in the sun between these hours, as many kids are, be sure to apply protective sunscreen - even if he or she is just playing in the backyard. Most sun damage occurs as a result of incidental exposure during day-to-day activities, not at the beach.

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Even on cloudy, cool, or overcast days, UV rays travel through the clouds and reflect off sand, water, and even concrete. Clouds and pollution don't filter out UV rays, and they can give a false sense of protection. This "invisible sun" can cause unexpected sunburn and skin damage. Often, kids are unaware that they're developing a sunburn on cooler or windy days because the temperature or breeze keeps skin feeling cool on the surface.
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Cover Up
One of the best ways to protect your family from the sun is to cover up and shield skin from UV rays. Ensure that clothes will screen out harmful UV rays by placing your hand inside the garments and making sure you can't see your hand through them.

Because infants have thinner skin and underdeveloped melanin, their skin burns more easily than that of older kids. But sunscreen should not be applied to babies under 6 months of age, so they absolutely must be kept out of the sun whenever possible. If your infant must be in the sun, dress him or her in clothing that covers the body, including hats with wide brims to shadow the face. Use an umbrella to create shade.

Even older kids need to escape the sun. Long exposure can make them feel tired and irritable. For all-day outdoor affairs, bring along a wide umbrella or a pop-up tent to play in. If it's not too hot outside and won't make your child even more uncomfortable, you can have him or her wear a light long-sleeved shirt and/or long pants. Before heading to the beach or park, call ahead to find out if certain areas offer rentals of umbrellas, tents, and other sun-protective gear.
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Use Sunscreen Consistently
There are lots of good sunscreens available for kids, including formulations for sensitive skin, brands with fun scents like watermelon, long-lasting waterproof and sweat-proof versions, and easy-application varieties in spray bottles.

What matters most in a sunscreen is the degree of protection from UV rays it provides. When faced with the overwhelming sea of sunscreen choices at drugstores, concentrate on the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) numbers on the labels.

The SPF number tells you how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning if you apply the sunscreen, which acts as a "block" to the sun's rays (hence the term sunblock). For example, if your child would burn after 20 minutes of sun exposure, applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 gives him or her 15 times the protection.

For kids age 6 months and older, select an SPF of 15 or higher to prevent both sunburn and tanning. Choose a sunscreen that states on the label that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (referred to as "broad-spectrum" sunscreen). To avoid possible skin allergy, avoid sunscreens with PABA, and if your child has sensitive skin, look for a product with the active ingredient titanium dioxide (a chemical-free block).
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For sunscreen to do its job, it must be applied correctly. Be sure to:

Use sunscreen whenever your child will be in the sun.

Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside so that a good layer of protection can form. Don't forget about lips, hands, ears, feet, shoulders, and behind the neck. Lift up bathing suit straps and apply sunscreen underneath them (in case the straps shift as your child moves).

Don't try to stretch out a bottle of sunscreen; as a guide, apply the sunscreen generously.

Reapply sunscreen often, approximately every 2 to 3 hours, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. Reapply after your child is sweating or swimming.

Apply a waterproof sunscreen if your child will be around water or will go swimming. Water reflects and intensifies the sun's rays, so kids need protection that lasts. Waterproof sunscreens may last up to 80 minutes in the water, and some are also sweat- and rub-proof. But, regardless of the waterproof label, be sure to reapply sunscreen when kids come out of the water.
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Keep in mind that every child needs extra sun protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that all children - regardless of their skin tone - wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Although dark skin has more protective melanin and tans more easily than it burns, remember that tanning is also a sign of sun damage. Dark-skinned children can also develop painful sunburns.

Purchase Protective Eyewear for Kids

Sun exposure damages the eyes as well as the skin. Even 1 day in the sun can result in a burned cornea (the outermost, clear membrane layer of the eye). Cumulative exposure can lead to cataracts later in life (clouding of the eye lens, which results in blindness). The best way to protect eyes is to wear sunglasses.

Not all sunglasses provide the same level of ultraviolet protection; darkened plastic or glass lenses without special UV filters just trick the eyes into a false sense of safety. Purchase sunglasses with labels ensuring that they provide 100% UV protection.

But not all children enjoy wearing sunglasses, especially the first few times. To encourage kids, let them select a style they particularly like; many manufacturers make fun, multicolored glass frames or frames embossed with cartoon characters. And don't forget that kids want to be like grown-ups. If you wear sunglasses regularly, your kids may be willing to follow your example.

What to Do if Your Child Gets a Sunburn
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A sunburn can sneak up on your child, especially after a long day at the beach or park. Often, kids seem fine during the day, but then gradually develop an "afterburn" later that evening that can be painful and hot and can even make them feel sick. The best way to take care of your child is to treat the symptoms and prevent further problems.

When children get sunburned, they usually experience pain and a sensation of heat - symptoms that tend to become more severe several hours after sun exposure. Some children also develop chills. Because the sun has dried their skin, it can become itchy and tight. Burned skin typically begins to peel about a week after the sunburn. Encourage your child not to scratch or peel off loose skin because skin underneath the sunburn is vulnerable to infection.
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If your child does get a sunburn, the following tips may help you make him or her more comfortable:

Keep your child in the shade until the sunburn is healed. Any additional sun exposure will only increase the severity of the burn and increase pain.

Have your child take a cool (not cold) bath, or gently apply cool, wet compresses to the skin to help alleviate pain and heat.

Apply pure aloe vera gel (available in most pharmacies or taken directly from within the leaves of the plant) to any sunburned areas. It's excellent for relieving sunburn pain and helping skin heal quicker.

Give your child a pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen and spray on over-the-counter "after-sun" pain relievers. (Do not, however, give aspirin to children or teens.)

Apply topical moisturizing cream to rehydrate the skin and help reduce swelling. For the most severely burned areas, apply a thin layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream. (Do not use petroleum-based products, because they prevent excess heat and sweat from escaping. Also, avoid first-aid products that contain benzocaine, which may cause skin irritation or allergy.)

If the sunburn is severe and blisters develop, call your doctor. Until you can see your child's doctor, tell your child not to scratch, pop, or squeeze the blisters, which can become easily infected and can result in scarring
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What About Heat-Related Illnesses?

Heat-related illnesses such as heat syncope (fainting from heat), heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are far more serious than a sunburn. These conditions occur when kids become overheated and dehydrated, and in many cases, are accompanied by sunburn

Call your child's doctor if:

your child has an unexplained fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius)
the sunburned skin looks infected
your child has trouble looking at light (This may indicate a sunburn of the eye's cornea.)
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Contact your child's doctor for immediate assistance if your child has:

nausea
vomiting
fainting
delirium (seems temporarily mentally confused)
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Be Sun Safe Yourself

Being a good role model by wearing sunscreen and limiting your time in the sun not only reduces your risk of becoming sunburned, it reduces your child's risk, too. By using a variety of sun protection measures, such as keeping your child indoors during peak hours and encouraging your child to wear hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts, as well as using sunscreen, you can decrease your child's exposure to the damaging effects of the sun.



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With warm weather and family events, the Fourth of July can be a fun time with great memories. But before your family celebrates this year, make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety.

If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burn and eye injuries in children and adults. There were 9,300 fireworks injuries treated in hospital emergency departments in 2003, and 6 deaths linked to fireworks.

The best thing you can do to protect your child is not to use any fireworks at home - period. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave the lighting to the professionals.

Lighting fireworks at home isn't even legal in many areas, so if you still want to use them, be sure to check with your local police department first. If they're legal where you live, keep these safety tips in mind:

Children should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give your child a sparkler, make sure your child keeps it outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (982 degrees Celsius) - hot enough to melt gold.

Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster, or quarterpounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries.

Never try to make your own fireworks

Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents

Steer clear of others - fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.

Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket - the friction could set them off

Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.

Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.

Don't allow your child to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time

Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can
Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep your pet indoors to reduce the risk that the pet will run loose or get injured

If your child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don't allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage. Also, don't flush the eye out with water or attempt to put any ointment on it. Instead, cut out the bottom of a paper cup, place it around the eye, and immediately seek medical attention - your child's eyesight may depend on it. If it's a burn, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn (do not use ice). Call your child's doctor immediately

Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you'll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe. Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast

When a child is ill or injured and requires emergency care, doctors, nurses, and paramedics will have many questions about his or her medical history. And even the most organized parent might not be able to remember the details of a child's health history in a stressful situation.

That's why it's important to keep a comprehensive record of your child's health information nearby. In many cases, this information can help a medical professional make quicker diagnoses and decisions during an emergency, when each second counts.

Read the categories below to learn more, and create a complete health record for your kids. Keep one copy of the record in an accessible place at home (such as on the refrigerator), one in each car, one at each parent's workplace, and one in each parent's bag or wallet. You should also supply your child's school or day care, as well as babysitters with this list, along with the name and number of your doctor.
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Allergies
Record on your list any known allergies your child has to medications, both prescription and nonprescription. Allergic reactions to insect stings and bites and food allergies are also important to list. In addition, some kids may have latex allergies. In many cases, allergy information helps medical personnel discover a cause for problems like seizures or difficulty breathing.
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Medications
Certain medications can't be taken together, so paramedics need to know all medications (prescription and nonprescription) your kids take before they can administer any drug. A child's symptoms also could be due to side effects of medications, which is another reason it's important to report everything being taken. In addition, you need to know the doses, the dosing schedules, and when and how much of the medications were recently taken.

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Pre-existing Illnesses or Conditions
Pre-existing illnesses or conditions can have a great impact on the kinds of tests or treatments administered during an emergency. If your child has any health problem — from diabetes to epilepsy to asthma — emergency medical personnel must know. For additional protection, kids with chronic conditions should wear an identifying tag on a bracelet. This kind of immediate notification can help doctors save a child's life.

For a child with special needs, you and your doctor can fill out a form created by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). The Emergency Information Form for Children With Special Needs can be found at either aap.org or acep.org and can be updated as needed.

As with any other health record you create, keep the form in an easily accessed place at home, in parents' vehicles, in parents' purses or wallets, at parents' workplaces, and with the child's belongings when traveling. The form should also be on file with your doctor, school nurse, and child-care center. It can also be filed in a repository (or database) that can be accessed by medical professionals in the event of an emergency
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Hospitalizations and Operations
List the dates your child has been hospitalized, the reasons for hospitalization, treatments received, and the types of operations he or she has undergone. This information may help during and following an emergency situation
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Immunizations
Keeping an updated record of all your kids' immunizations is important. If you need help remembering or compiling all the information, the staff at your doctor's office can assist you. Be sure to include information about any reactions a child may have had following an immunization, such as seizures, high fever, or severe discomfort.

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Height and Weight
When calculating medication doses, it can be helpful for doctors to know the approximate height and weight of the child. (But you'll need to change this information periodically, since kids often grow quickly.)

A delicious mud pie, a good-luck rock, or a friendly frog are just a few of the presents kids love to bring home to Mom and Dad. But behind these adorable gifts, millions of germs could be lurking.

Kids don't always listen when you tell them to wash their hands before eating, but it's a message worth repeating. Hand washing is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep your kids from getting sick.
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The First Line of Defense Against Germs

Germs can be transmitted many ways, including:

touching dirty hands
changing dirty diapers
through contaminated water and food
through droplets released during a cough or a sneeze
via contaminated surfaces
through contact with a sick person's body fluids
When kids come into contact with germs, they can unknowingly become infected simply by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. And once they're infected, it's usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness.

Good hand washing is the first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses, from the common cold to more serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea.
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Washing Hands Correctly

Here's how to scrub those germs away. Demonstrate this routine to your kids — or better yet, wash your hands together often so they learn how important this good habit is:

1) Wash your hands in warm water. Make sure the water isn't too hot for little hands.

2)Use soap and lather up for about 10 to 15 seconds (antibacterial soap isn't necessary — any soap will do). Make sure you get in between the fingers and under the nails where uninvited germs like to hang out. And don't forget the wrists!

Rinse and dry well with a clean towel.
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To minimize the germs passed around your family, make frequent hand washing a rule for everyone, especially:

-before eating and cooking
-after using the bathroom
-after cleaning around the house
-after touching animals, including family pets
-before and after visiting or taking care of any sick friends or relatives
-after blowing one's nose, coughing, or sneezing
-after being outside (playing, gardening, walking the dog, etc.)

Don't underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink could save you trips to the doctor's office.

Blizzards are severe winter storms characterized by the following: snow or blowing snow with winds of 40 km/hr or more, visibility reduced to less than one km. in snow and/or blowing snow, windchill of -25 or colder. All of the above conditions are expected to last for four hours or more to be officially classified as a blizzard. However, caution should be exercised if any of these conditions exist, regardless of their duration.

If a blizzard warning is issued for your area, take the following precautions

-- MAINTAIN A GOOD SUPPLY OF HEATING FUEL AND FOOD. If you've been warned about a blizzard early enough, stock up on food and fuel. Include food that requires no preparation in case the power goes off.

-- ENSURE ANIMALS ARE SHELTERED, and provide them with plenty of food and water before the storm reaches full force.

-- DON'T GO OUTSIDE. You may lose your way in the blinding snow. If you must go out, firmly tie one end of a long rope to your house to provide a way back, and tie the rest of the rope to the buildings you must visit. Keep a tight grip on it whenever you walk outside

-- WAIT OUT THE STORM INDOORS. Blizzards may last for days at a time.

-- BE PREPARED IN CASE OF POWER FAILURE. Check battery powered equipment, flashlights, and portable radios before the storm hits. (See power failure precautions).

-- BE ALERT FOR FIRE HAZARDS due to overheated stoves, fireplaces, heaters or furnaces.

-- USE CAUTION SHOVELLING after the storm. It is extremely hard work for those in less than excellent physical condition, and can even bring on a heart attack.

-- KEEP AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ON HAND, in case you run out during the storm

During an emergency like a winter power outage or a severe winter storm, you could face frostbite. Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of frostbite, and remember severe frostbite can be a life-threatening emergency. The following information can help you deal with frostbite.

The months of December, January and February are the coldest months of the Ottawa winter and it's difficult to avoid the cold weather. Frostbite is defined as damage of the skin from exposure to cold weather. Extremely cold weather can lead to serious complications, the worst being amputation. Injuries from frostbite are extremely common, yet preventable.

Frostbite mostly affects areas where the circulation is poor. Since cold weather will cause the body to take preventive measures by constricting (making smaller) the blood vessel, this opens the door to frostbite injuries.

Look for the 4 Ps of frostbite

--Pink - affected areas will be reddish in colour. This is the first sign of frostbite.
--Pain - affected areas will become painful.
--Patches - white, waxy feeling patches show up - skin is dying.
--Pricklies - the areas will then feel numb

Tips to prevent frostbite:

--Get to a warm area before frostbite sets in. If it's too cold outside, consider staying indoors.
--Protect areas of poor circulation (ears, nose, fingers and toes).
--Keep extra mittens and gloves in the car, house or school bag.
--Wear larger sized mittens over your gloves.
--Wear a scarf to protect the chin, lips and cheeks. They are all extremely susceptible to frostbite.
--Wear two pairs of socks - wool if possible
--Keep feet warm and dry
--Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol narrows blood vessels, which promotes frostbite and then hypothermia
--Remove any wet clothing.

What to do in case of frostbite:

--Do not rub or massage affected areas. It may cause more damage.
--NOT HOT - warm up the area slowly. Use warm compresses or your own body heat to re-warm the area. Underarms are a good place.
--If toes or feet are frostbitten, try not to walk on them.
--Seek immediate medical attention if you see white or grey coloured patches or if the re-warmed area is numb.
--Always be on the lookout for the symptoms of frostbite. In case of serious cold weather injury, seek immediate medical attention

Hypothermia

Whenever the body's normal temperature becomes too low, hypothermia (hypo = low and thermia = temperature) occurs and will starve the brain of much needed oxygen.

During cold weather months, finding warmth can be the key to survival, but hypothermia can occur even during the hot days of July. Swimming in cold water for a long period of time can induce hypothermia even in the hottest months of the year. Remember, hypothermia can quickly become life-threatening.

Who is at Risk?

--Elderly - with inadequate clothing, food (food sustains normal body temperature) or heat
--Babies - sleeping in cold rooms or inappropriate clothing for the outdoors
--Homeless - lack of shelter, proper clothing and food
--Sport Enthusiasts - hikers, skiers
--Workers - people who work outdoors

Signs of Hypothermia

Look for the "UMBLES" from people affected by cold temperatures

A person who mumbles;
A person who stumbles; and
A person who fumbles objects

For infants look for cold reddish skin and low energy - always have a thermometer at home

Tips to prevent Hypothermia

--Wear clothes in layers: The under layer should be the insulating layer to prevent loss of your body heat while keeping the cold outside air away; the outer layer should be the "wind breaking" layer to reduce the chances of cold air reaching the insulating layer.
--Drink warm fluids, and no alcohol (it promotes other cold weather injuries).
--If you start to sweat, cool off a little. Wet clothes will accelerate other cold weather injuries.
--Wear a hat - up to 40% of body heat loss can occur through the head.
--Wear gloves or mittens or both!
--Wear a scarf to protect the chin, lips and cheeks - all are extremely susceptible to cold weather injuries

What to do in case of Hypothermia

Remove wet clothing that promotes hypothermia.
Get to a warm place as soon as possible. Use several layers of blankets heated in your home dryer if possible.
If the person is alert, give warm beverages. Never give alcoholic beverages.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Always be on the lookout for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. In case of serious cold weather injury, seek immediate medical attention

Why shovel your sidewalks?

Snow and ice create a hazardous situation for everyone but especially for seniors and people with disabilities. Shovelling and using salt, sand or other substances with ice melting properties will help reduce the potential for slip and fall incidents, which can and do cause serious injuries.

Safe snow shovelling requires proper preparation, the right tools, good technique and knowledge.

Preparation

Talk to your doctor about this activity and your health status before winter season arrives.
Think twice if you:
have had a heart attack or have other forms of heart disease
have high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels
are a smoker
lead a sedentary lifestyle
Consider hiring a student or using a volunteer service if you are a senior.
Shovel at least 1-2 hours after eating and avoid caffeine and nicotine.
Warm up first (walk or march in place for several minutes before beginning).
Start slow and continue at a slow pace (Suggestion: shovel for 5-7 minutes and rest 2-3 minutes).
Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.
Shovel early and often:
new snow is lighter than heavily packed/partially melted snow
take frequent breaks

Tools

Shovel:
sturdy yet lightweight is best (a small plastic blade is better than a large metal blade)
an ergonomically correct model (curved handle) will help prevent injury and fatigue
spray the blade with a silicone-based lubricant (snow does not stick and slides off)

Clothing:
wear multiple layers and cover as much skin as possible
wear a hat and scarf (make sure neither block your vision)
wear mittens (tend to be warmer than gloves)

Technique

Always try to push snow rather than lifting it.
Protect your back by lifting properly and safely:
stand with feet at hip width for balance
hold the shovel close to your body
space hands apart to increase leverage
bend from your knees not your back
tighten your stomach muscles while lifting
avoid twisting while lifting
walk to dump snow rather than throwing it
When snow is deep, shovel small amounts (1-2 inches at a time) at a time.
If the ground is icy or slippery, spread salt, sand or kitty litter to create better foot traction

Knowledge

Shovelling snow is strenuous activity that is very stressful on the heart.
Exhaustion makes you more susceptible to frostbite, injury and hypothermia.
Stop shovelling and call 911 if you have:
discomfort or heaviness in the chest, arms or neck
unusual or prolonged shortness of breath
a dizzy or faint feeling
excessive sweating or nausea and vomiting
wear boots with non-skid/no-slip rubber soles

Cold Injuries
Exposure to the cold can be hazardous, or even life-threatening. Your body's extremities, such as the ears, nose, fingers and toes, lose heat the fastest. Exposed skin may freeze, causing frostnip or frostbite. In extreme conditions or after prolonged exposure to the cold, the body core can also lose heat, resulting in hypothermia.

Frostnip
a mild form of frostbite, where only the skin freezes
skin appears yellowish or white, but feels soft to the touch
painful tingling or burning sensation

What to do:
do not rub or massage the area
warm the area gradually -- use body heat (a warm hand), or warm water, avoid direct heat which can burn the skin
once the affected area is warm, do not re-expose it to the cold

Frostbite
a more severe condition, where both the skin and the underlying tissue (fat, muscle, bone) are frozen
skin appears white and waxy, and is hard to the touch
no sensation -- the area is numb

What to do:
frostbite can be serious, and can result in amputation. Get medical help.
do not rub or massage the area
do not warm the area until you can ensure it will stay warm
warm the area gradually -- use body heat, or warm water (40 to 42oC), avoid direct heat which can burn the skin

Hypothermia
feeling cold over a prolonged period of time can cause a drop in body temperature (below the normal 37°C)
shivering, confusion and loss of muscular control can occur
can progress to a life-threatening condition where shivering stops, the person loses consciousness, and cardiac arrest may occur

What to do:
get medical attention immediately
lay the person down and avoid rough handling, particularly if the person is unconscious
get the person indoors
gently remove wet clothing
warm the person gradually, using any available source of heat

Plan ahead

Keep sidewalks, steps and driveways well lit.

Consider installing sensor lights in walkways.

Spread salt, sand or non-clumping cat litter on walkways to keep them free of ice.

Carry a small bag of salt, sand or non-clumping cat litter in your pocket to
spread on icy patches when out walking.

Consider using a walking aid with ice prongs or a ski pole.

Carry your personal identification.

Carry a flashlight with you in the dark.

Carry a cell phone and put a whistle in your pocket for emergencies
when walking alone.

Ask a friend or a neighbour to come along with you

Be Active

Keep moving in the winter months to stay strong, help your balance and
give you more energy.

Try to be active indoors. Go up and down the stairs, put down the TV remote
and get up to change the channel.

Do indoor balance and stretching exercises.

Consider joining a balance and strength class such as Tai Chi.

Keep in touch with friends and family. It will help the winter pass more quickly
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Wear the Gear

Cover your ears, head and fingers to avoid frostbite.

Wear sunglasses and a visor to reduce glare from sun and snow.

Dress in layers to stay warm.

Choose less bulky clothing so you can still move easily.

Wear sturdy boots that have a deep tread and fit well.

Try ice-grippers on your boots for better traction on icy and snow-packed surfaces.

**Remove your ice-grippers to walk on smooth surfaces such as
tiles or ceramic areas.
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Choose Smart

Plan activities according to your own likes and limits .

Plan your route. Let others know where you are going and when
you will be back if you are walking alone.

Give yourself enough time to get where you are going without rushing.

On icy surfaces, take small flat-footed steps.

Hold onto the hand rail when you go up or down the stairs.

Take extra caution on public sidewalks and report unsafe areas.

Take a taxi when conditions are bad. The money is well worth avoiding
a fall and hurting yourself.