Podcasts about safelivingtoday

This is the first episode of the new "Healthy and Happy Senior Living" podcast. Ongoing, this show will focus on helping seniors and caregivers live healthier, happier lives. With each episode, you'll discover the latest research, tools, and tips for enhancing every area of life. Note: This show replaces the "Safe Living Today" show.---Timestamps:00:00 - Show and host info;00:48 - Listen to other shows at www.StressReliefRadio.com;00:57 - Recent healthy aging studies;06:09 - Recognizing home holiday hazards and staying safe;10:31 - How to contact host Stephen Carter.---Research summaries shared in this episode include:"Study identifies unique set of attributes linked to healthy, optimal aging"; "Medical News Today": Link: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/study-identifies-attributes-linked-to-healthy-optimal-aging"1-minute bursts of physical activity during daily tasks could help you live longer"; publisted in "Medical News Today": Link: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/1-minute-bursts-of-activity-during-daily-tasks-promotes-longevity. Study summary also published in "MedicalExpress.com" at Short bursts of physical activity during daily life may lower risk of premature death.Alicia Gambino, Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Article: "'Tis the season for home holiday hazards"; published in "MedicalExpress.com": Link: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-12-tis-season-home-holiday-hazards.html."Loneliness increases risk of premature death for those with cardiovascular disease, finds systematic review"; published in "MedicalExpress.com". Link: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-12-loneliness-premature-death-cardiovascular-disease.html.---Host information:Stephen Carter. Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com. Email: CarterMethod@gmail.com.---Technical information:Recorded with Audacity. Edits with Twisted Wave. Final edits and rendering with Hindenburg Pro.Microphone: ST---Key words:senior wellbeing, senior health, exercise for seniors, home safety,

This episode highlights eight recall notices reported on the website for the Consumer Safety Product Commission for the United States.Find all recall notices at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls.Recall notice for the largest number of units for the dates between November 19 - 25, 2020 is:Crock-Pot 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers Recalled by Sunbeam Products Due to Burn HazardRecalled Crock-Pot 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-CookerName of product:Crock-Pot® 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-CookersHazard:The recalled Crock-Pot multi-cooker can pressurize when the lid is not fully locked. This can cause the lid to suddenly detach while the product is in use, posing burn risks to consumers from hot food and liquids ejected from the product.Remedy:ReplaceRecall date:November 24, 2020Units:About 914,430 (In addition, about 28,330 were sold in Canada.) Consumer Contact:Crock-Pot at 800-323-9519 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at recall.crockpot.com for more information. Link: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2021/Crock-Pot-6-Quart-Express-Crock-Multi-Cookers-Recalled-by-Sunbeam-Products-Due-to-Burn-Hazard.----Any Volume Recalls Bicycle Helmets Due to Risk of Head Injury; Sold Exclusively on ebay.com (Recall Alert)Recalled Any Volume bike helmet – side viewName of product:Bicycle HelmetsHazard:The helmets do not comply with the U.S. CPSC federal safety standard for bicycle helmets, posing a risk of head injury. Remedy:RefundRecall date:November 24, 2020Units:About 660Consumer Contact:Any Volume toll-free at 877-391-5003 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email at cs@anyvolume.com or online at www.anyvolume.com and click on BH 11 and H-103 Bike Helmet Recall Notice at the center of the homepage for more information.Recall DetailsDescription:This recall involves Any Volume’s adult bicycle helmets. The recalled medium-sized helmets were sold in blue, green, pink, red, white and yellow. The helmets have black nylon fabric straps with white striped patterns in the center and a black plastic knob at the back of the helmet for adjusting the fitting. Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helmets and contact Any Volume for a full refund. Any Volume is contacting all known purchasers directly. Incidents/Injuries:None reported.Sold Exclusively At:Online at ebay.com from May 2020 through October 2020 for about $15.Manufacturer(s):Dongguan Rikcon Sports Technology Co., Ltd and Dongguan Wencan Sporting Goods Co., Ltd., of ChinaImporter(s):West Lake International LLC., dba Any Volume, of Bridgeville, Pa.Manufactured In:ChinaRecall number:21-710----Eco Baby Spoons and Forks, Eco Feeding Spoons, and Eco Placemat Feeding Sets Recalled Due to Choking Hazard; Made by HerobilityRecalled Eco Baby Spoon and Fork and Eco Feeding SpoonRecalled Eco Baby Spoon and Fork and Eco Feeding SpoonName of product:Baby Spoons and Forks, Feeding Spoons and Placemat Feeding sets 4PCsHazard:The Eco Baby Spoon and Fork and Eco Feeding Spoon can break into small pieces, posing a choking hazard.Remedy:RefundRecall date:November 25, 2020Units:About 890 (In addition, about 11 in Canada)Consumer Contact:Contact Herobility toll-free at 866-510-5006 from 9 a.m. through 3 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.herobility.com and click on the recall link on the homepage or go directly to https://herobility.com/en/recalls.Recall DetailsIn Conjunction With:Description:This recall involves Eco Baby Spoons and Forks and Eco Feeding Spoons, as well as the Eco Placemat Feeding sets 4 PCS, because they include the Eco Feeding Spoon. The recalled spoons and forks are made entirely of a plastic compound, and are distinct from the other Herobility spoons and forks sold in the U.S., which consist of plastic handles with steel implements. The Herobility name and, in most instances, the date (month/2019) are located directly on the underside of the recalled products. In addition to products with a date stamp of (month/2019), products with no date stamp are included in the recall. Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled baby spoons and forks, feeding spoons and placemat sets and contact Herobility to return the products for a full refund or a Herobility gift card with free shipping on a future order. Herobility is notifying all consumers who purchased the recalled products through its website directly.Incidents/Injuries:None reported. Sold At:Online at www.herobility.com and at Buy Buy Baby, Dillard’s, The Mama ‘Hood, Kidsland, Traveling Tikes, Adolce Baby, Mum and Mini, Earth Baby, Global Enfant, Li’l Baby Sprouts, Mariposa Hill, Macy’s and Babylist stores nationwide from March 2019 through September 2020 for about $9 for the Eco Baby Spoon & Fork, about $10 for the Eco Feeding Spoon (3 Pack), and about $50 for the Eco Placemat Feeding set 4 PCS.Manufacturer(s):Herobility AB, of SwedenImporter(s):Herobility AB, of SwedenManufactured In:ChinaRecall number:21-033-----Lidl US Recalls Powerfix Steel Shelving Units Due To Tip-Over and Entrapment HazardsRecalled Lidl Powerfix shelving unit Name of product:Powerfix Steel Shelving UnitsHazard:The recalled shelving units can be missing wall mounting hardware, which is used to attach the shelving unit to the wall to prevent it from tipping or falling, posing tip-over and entrapment hazards.Remedy:RefundReplaceRecall date:November 25, 2020Units:About 4,000Consumer Contact:Contact Lidl US toll-free at 844-747-5435 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.lidl.com and click on “product recalls” at the bottom of the page or go to the “contact us” page at https://www.lidl.com/contact-us.Recall DetailsDescription:This recall involves Lidl’s Powerfix Metal Shelving Units. They are 59 inches tall, stand upright, and contain four metal shelves. They come in a box marked with article number 314367 and UPC 4017239206062. One of the shelves in the unit is marked with a white sticker with the article number 314367.Article Number:UPC:3143674017239206062 Remedy:Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled shelving units if they do not have mounting hardware attaching them to the wall and contact Lidl for free mounting hardware or return the shelving unit to Lidl for a full refund.Incidents/Injuries:None reported.Sold At:Lidl US stores in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Georgia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York from June 2019 through May 2020 for between $20 and $25.Importer(s):Lidl US Trading LLC, of Arlington, Va.Manufactured In:GermanyRecall number:21-038----RH Recalls Wine Barrel Chandeliers Due to Injury HazardRecalled 5-Arm Wine Barrel ChandelierName of product:Wine Barrel ChandeliersHazard:Hardware parts used to hang the chandeliers can break causing the chandelier to fall from the ceiling, posing an injury hazard. Remedy:ReplaceRepairRecall date:November 25, 2020Units:About 7,800 (In addition, about 600 were sold in Canada)Consumer Contact:RH toll-free at 833-786-0028 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Saturday and Sunday, email recall@rh.com or online at www.rh.com and click on “Safety Recalls” at the bottom of the page. Recall DetailsIn Conjunction With:Description:This recall involves RH Wine Barrel Chandeliers that consist of oak wine barrel staves and hoops and 5, 6, 8 or 12 “arms” with sockets for E12 candelabra bulbs or 6 “arms” for battery-operated flameless votives. The chandeliers were sold in a brown and polished nickel color in five styles under the following SKU numbers. SKU information is printed on the top of the unit and on the receipt.SKU Numbers- Gallery and Online SalesSKU Numbers- Outlet SalesStyle68060544BRN, 68060544PN, 68060146BRN, 68060146PN, 68060554BRN, 68060554PN68060544, 68060545, 68060146, 68060433, 68060554, 680605555-arm chandelier68060546BRN, 68060546PN, 68060091BRN, 68060091PN, 68060166BRN68060546,68060547,68060091, 68060431680601666-arm chandelier68060225BRN, 68060107BRN, 68060107PN, 68060548PN, 68060167BRN, 68060558PN68060432, 6806022568060107, 6806016768060549, 680605598-arm chandelier68060552BRN, 68060168BRN, 68060168PN68060552, 680601686829071212-arm chandelier31020090BRN31020090Garden/Outdoor (6-arm flameless votives) chandelier Remedy:Consumers should prevent people from going into the immediate area underneath the chandelier. Contact RH to schedule a free in-home repair or replacement depending on chandelier hardware type. The firm is notifying all known purchasers directly.Incidents/Injuries:RH has received 14 reports of hanging hardware components breaking, including 11 reports of the chandelier falling. No injuries have been reported.Sold At:RH galleries nationwide and online at rh.com from April 2009 through July 2018 and at RH outlets nationwide from October 2009 through March 2020 for between $80 and $3,500.Importer(s):RH US LLC, of Corte Madera, Calif.Manufactured In:Poland and IndiaRecall number:21-034Other product recall notices include bicycle frame, bicycle helmet, Qi wireless chargers, and more. Find details by searching recall notices at https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls.Host: Stephen CarterWebsite: http://www.SafeLivingToday@gmail.com;Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.Technical information:Recorded and first edit with Twisted Wave. Second edit and rendering with Hindenburg Journalist Pro.Mic: EV RE320

At the time of this recording, people in Portland, Oregon have been subjected to nearly three months of nightly riots, arsons, and other violence.While there have been peaceful protests in the wake of George Floyd's death in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, thousands of people across the U.S. have taken to the streets to engage in riots, looting, arsons, destruction of property, and in some instances murder. Sadly, the riots, looting, arsons, murders, and violence have continued in many cities and suburbs across the U.S.More than a hundred police departments face massive budget cuts in the wake of demands to "defund the police".This ongoing violence is creating direct risks to life and property for innocent people across the country.This episode identifies key Bible verses about how to prepare from a religious point of view. You also learn about resources for dealing with potential shortages of food, water, and other life sustaining items that may occur as a result of ongoing violence and COVID pandemic.Resources discussed in the episode:"Food and Water in an Emergency": Guide created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross. Link: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdfEpisode from, "Safe Living Today" podcast show: "Create a No Break-In Zone!" Link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/12441532Episode from, "Safe Living Today" podcast show: "How to Choose and Use Non-Lethal Personal Protection Weapons". Link: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/12918360News stories mentioned in this episode:“Chicago Looters Attack Ronald McDonald House with sick children inside, charity says ”: “Washington Times”, August 12, 2020; Link: https://m.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/aug/12/chicago-looters-attacked-ronald-mcdonald-house-wit/ and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMUBCQUYQ00"Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan continues to be lambasted for a June 11 interview with CNN’s Chris Cuomo, during which she suggested the occupied protest around the city’s east police precinct could simply be a “summer of love.” Q13 Fox - June 22, 2020, SEATTLE. https://www.q13fox.com/news/chop-seattle-mayor-walks-back-summer-of-love-comment"District attorney to drop charges against hundreds of Portland protesters": "Washington Examiner". https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/district-attorney-to-drop-charges-against-hundreds-of-portland-protesters"Churches burned and vandalized in riots"; https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/churches-burned-and-vandalized-in-riotsPortland protesters burn Bibles and American flag: https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/portland-protesters-burn-bibles/"Truckers SNAP, Won't Deliver To Cities That Defund Police As Nearly 129 Departments Defunded": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ordqvc2KbtgBible verses highlighted in this episode: Psalm 23 Verse 4:"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I fear no evil, for You are with me;Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me."Psalm 121 Verse 8, we’re told:"The Lord will guard your going out and your coming inFrom this time forth and forever."In Proverbs 14 Verse 16 we’re told:“The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.” https://biblehub.com/nlt/proverbs/14-16.htmIn Proverbs 22 Verse 3 of the New Living Translation, we’re told:"A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” https://biblehub.com/nlt/proverbs/22-3.htmHost: Stephen Carter; Email SafeLivingToday@gmail.com;Mic: EV RE320Key words / tags:God, Bible, Proverbs, riots, arson, anarchy, Portland, violence, murder, crisis, Churches, demonstrations, protests, George Floyd, Bible burnings, religion, prayer, Psalms,

In this episode you meet a struggling single mother down to her last $7 who won with a lottery scratch-off. She donated the money to a Kansas City police officer in intensive care wounded in the line of duty. You'll learn why Shetara Sims and her 12-year old daughter Rakiya Edmonson wanted to give back to police who were there for them after the murder of Rakiya's older sister several years earlier. Links for this story: "Struggling single mother donates lottery winnings to Mo. officer shot in line of duty" Link: https://www.witn.com/2020/07/21/struggling-single-mother-donates-lottery-winnings-to-mo-officer-shot-in-line-of-duty/ GoFundMe page for Shetara Sims: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-the-woman-with-a-heart-of-gold?utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet Second story: "Teaching Your Kids Kindness May Help Them Succeed Later In Life" Link: https://www.wbur.org/kindworld/2020/07/21/kids-kindness Host: Stephen Carter Contact email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Mic: EV RE320 Key words:kindness, Kansas City, Shetara Sims, police, police officer, shot, Adam Grant, teach kindness, --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/better-place/message

FDA Warns of Dangerous Hand SanitizersFDA is alerting consumers of Saniderm Products and UVT Inc.’s voluntary recall of Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer. Following FDA’s recommendation, two distributors – Saniderm Products and UVT – agreed to recall Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer packaged in 1-liter plastic bottles and labeled with “Made in Mexico” and “Produced by: Eskbiochem SA de CV.”List of products and other safety information is available through the Food and Drug Administration's website at: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-advises-consumers-not-use-hand-sanitizer-products-manufactured-eskbiochem.Host: Stephen Carter; Website: http://SafeLivingToday.com;Contact host: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com;Mic: EV RE320Key words:hand sanitizer, methanol, wood alcohol, FDA advises consumers not to use hand sanitizer products manufactured by Eskbiochem, toxic hand sanitizers, skin absorption, Stephen Carter, Safety, safe,

FDA Warns of Dangerous Hand SanitizersFDA is alerting consumers of Saniderm Products and UVT Inc.’s voluntary recall of Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer. Following FDA’s recommendation, two distributors – Saniderm Products and UVT – agreed to recall Saniderm Advanced Hand Sanitizer packaged in 1-liter plastic bottles and labeled with “Made in Mexico” and “Produced by: Eskbiochem SA de CV.”List of products and other safety information is available through the Food and Drug Administration's website at: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-advises-consumers-not-use-hand-sanitizer-products-manufactured-eskbiochem.Host: Stephen Carter; Website: http://SafeLivingToday.com;Contact host: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com;Mic: EV RE320Key words:hand sanitizer, methanol, wood alcohol, FDA advises consumers not to use hand sanitizer products manufactured by Eskbiochem, toxic hand sanitizers, skin absorption, Stephen Carter, Safety, safe,

In this episode you learn about a new study showing kindness and volunteering can make you healthier, happier, and may help you live longer. In addition, you'll meet an 11 year old girl and a 70 plus year old lady making an environmental difference in the world. Story sources cited in the episode: Do Good, Live Longer: Volunteering May Add Years To Lifespan, Improves Overall Well-Being: https://www.studyfinds.org/do-good-live-longer-volunteering-may-add-years-to-lifespan-improves-overall-well-being/ — This 11-Year-Old Activist Has Picked Up More Than 100,000 Pieces of Plastic: https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/lilly-platt-activist-plastic-environment/ — Host: Stephe Carter, CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC - https://www.EFT-MD.com; Email host at SafeLivingToday@outlook.com; Mic: EV RE320 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/better-place/message

The YWCA reports it is the largest network of domestic and sexual violence services provider in the United States. This episode highlights those service and why they're more important than ever in the wake of a sharp rise in domestic violence.Sources and resources mentioned in this video include:- The U.S. National YWCA website: https://www.YWCA.org;- How to find a local YWCA:https://secure2.convio.net/ywca/site/...- Nonprofit resource, Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse, FREA. Website: https://www.FREA.support;- The "New York Times" story, "A New Covid-19 Crisis: Domestic Abuse Rises Worldwide", by Amanda Taub: Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/06/wo...Contact, "Safe Living Today" host Stephen Carter: Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

The YWCA reports it is the largest network of domestic and sexual violence services provider in the United States. This episode highlights those service and why they're more important than ever in the wake of a sharp rise in domestic violence.Sources and resources mentioned in this video include:- The U.S. National YWCA website: https://www.YWCA.org;- How to find a local YWCA:https://secure2.convio.net/ywca/site/...- Nonprofit resource, Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse, FREA. Website: https://www.FREA.support;- The "New York Times" story, "A New Covid-19 Crisis: Domestic Abuse Rises Worldwide", by Amanda Taub: Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/06/wo...Contact, "Safe Living Today" host Stephen Carter: Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

New Online Bank ScamYou've received emails supposedly from your bank telling you to click a link immediately or your account wil be blocked. You're too smart to fall for this scam.But there's a new twist. Criminals are sending text messages that appear legitimate warning of a fraud in your account. You're told to click a link in the text message immediately or your account will be blocked.What do you do?In this brief episode you'll discover exactly how to handle this fraud and protect your money.Resource article: https://lifehacker.com/dont-click-on-links-in-texts-from-your-bank-1841747691?fbclid=IwAR2K88XJoU44hAUMf-Lp7S9QG5sxZVigTjDiyxqFQY1gAOT81UuUwDh1SuYPrevious episodes and more info about the, "Safe Living Today" podcast. http://SafeLivingToday.com Contact host: Email SafeLivingToday@gmail.comMic: SM58

New Online Bank ScamYou've received emails supposedly from your bank telling you to click a link immediately or your account wil be blocked. You're too smart to fall for this scam.But there's a new twist. Criminals are sending text messages that appear legitimate warning of a fraud in your account. You're told to click a link in the text message immediately or your account will be blocked.What do you do?In this brief episode you'll discover exactly how to handle this fraud and protect your money.Resource article: https://lifehacker.com/dont-click-on-links-in-texts-from-your-bank-1841747691?fbclid=IwAR2K88XJoU44hAUMf-Lp7S9QG5sxZVigTjDiyxqFQY1gAOT81UuUwDh1SuYPrevious episodes and more info about the, "Safe Living Today" podcast. http://SafeLivingToday.com Contact host: Email SafeLivingToday@gmail.comMic: SM58

Have you been ripped off by a store or online? In this episode you learn what actions you can take to get your money back from a brick and mortar or online company that sold you a shoddy product, failed to deliver any product at all, failed to honor their return policy, improperly billed your credit card, or that otherwise acted in an unethical or illegal way.Actions can include:- Use of the 3-day "cooling off" period for some purchases.- Consumer Protection Agencies at the local or State level.- Social media.- State Attorney General's office.- Better Business Bureau.- And more including why making purchases with a credit card rather than cash or debit cards offer major protections if there is a problem with the product or service.Resources mentioned in this podcast episode include:"How to Get Your Money Back After a Bad Purchase", from, "The Verge"; link https://www.theverge.com/2019/11/25/20982536/returns-refund-purchase-complaint-problem-broken-better-business-bureau-courts.Consumer Federation of America: link: https://consumerfed.org/press_release/nations-top-consumer-complaints-2/Host: Stephen CarterPodcast website: http://SafeLivingToday.com

Have you been ripped off by a store or online? In this episode you learn what actions you can take to get your money back from a brick and mortar or online company that sold you a shoddy product, failed to deliver any product at all, failed to honor their return policy, improperly billed your credit card, or that otherwise acted in an unethical or illegal way.Actions can include:- Use of the 3-day "cooling off" period for some purchases.- Consumer Protection Agencies at the local or State level.- Social media.- State Attorney General's office.- Better Business Bureau.- And more including why making purchases with a credit card rather than cash or debit cards offer major protections if there is a problem with the product or service.Resources mentioned in this podcast episode include:"How to Get Your Money Back After a Bad Purchase", from, "The Verge"; link https://www.theverge.com/2019/11/25/20982536/returns-refund-purchase-complaint-problem-broken-better-business-bureau-courts.Consumer Federation of America: link: https://consumerfed.org/press_release/nations-top-consumer-complaints-2/Host: Stephen CarterPodcast website: http://SafeLivingToday.com

Learn primary product recalls as reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and primary food product recalls as reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 31 October to 6 November 2019.For details on all product recalls as reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, go to https://www.cpsc.gov/.For FDA food product recalls go to https://www.foodsafety.gov/.For previous episodes and to subscribe at zero cost go to www.SafeLivingToday.com. Email host Stephen Carter at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com with comments or questions.

Learn primary product recalls as reported by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and primary food product recalls as reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from 31 October to 6 November 2019.For details on all product recalls as reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, go to https://www.cpsc.gov/.For FDA food product recalls go to https://www.foodsafety.gov/.For previous episodes and to subscribe at zero cost go to www.SafeLivingToday.com. Email host Stephen Carter at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com with comments or questions.

Protect Your Residence During National Crime Prevention MonthOctober is National Crime Prevention Month. Celebrated since 1984, after a Presidential proclamation, it’s a perfect time to assess risk and take action to enhance your safety and the safety of your family members.But where should you start? I suggest beginning with your home.Get a Crime Prevention Inspection From PoliceWhether you live in a house or apartment, contact your local police department on their non-emergency phone number and ask if they have a crime prevention unit. Most police agencies have specially trained crime prevention specialists who will come to your residence, conduct a security inspection, and offer recommendations to increase safety.Protecting Your HouseHere are some suggestions if you live in a house:Walk around your home and look for thick shrubbery near doors and windows where a criminal could hide. Cut shrubbery down and back as much as possible. The idea is to create open sight lines from your driveway and street so anyone near the house can be easily seen.Test your outside lights and replace any burned out bulbs. Are lights bright enough to illuminate doors and other potential areas of risk properly? If more light is needed, install brighter bulbs or add additional outside lighting. Ideally, all sides of your home should be illuminated. Keep lights on from dusk to dawn.If you have a ladder in your yard, bring it in. An easily accessible ladder is an invitation for a criminal to break-in through a second story window.If you have a patio door, secure it using what’s called a charley bar (available at virtually any hardware store) or by placing a wooden dowel in the sliding door track. You can also purchase a pair of locally activated door or window alarms for less than $25.Ensure you have and use a peephole or an outside camera for your entrance door. Have and use a security chain or take other precautions before opening the door to anyone you don’t know. Have a phone in hand when answering the door in case you need to call for help.Consider installing a home alarm. Many modern alarm systems are modular and wireless. Professional monitoring is available costing roughly $15 to $25 per month, but if that’s not affordable you can have an alarm sound locally if a break-in is detected. Many modern systems can be set to notify you through a smartphone app allowing video and audio connection.Keep doors and windows locked whether you are home or out.Protecting Your ApartmentIf you live in an apartment with a first floor outside entrance, all of the suggestions about securing a house will apply.If you live in a building with an interior entrance door, ensure the hallway leading to your door is well lit. Have and use a door peephole or video camera to monitor the area near your door. Use a security chain or take other appropriate precautions before opening the door to someone you don't know, even if your building requires an access card or code to enter the main lobby.Consider installing a modern modular wireless alarm if your budget allows.More Crime Prevention TipsHere are other Stay Safe blogposts focused on helping to keep you safe:Are You Practicing Safe Parking in Lots and Garages: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/18/Are-You-Practicing-Safe-Parking-in-Lots-and-GaragesAre You as Safe as Possible When Walking in the World: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/05/Are-You-as-Safe-as-Possible-When-Walking-in-the-WorldHow to Avoid Danger When Walking on Campus: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/08/26/How-to-Avoid-Danger-When-Walking-on-Campus"Online Dating: Tips to Help Keep You Safe - Part 1 and Part 2: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2017/10/09/Online-Dating-Tips-to-Help-Keep-You-Safe---Part-1; Part 2: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2017/10/01/Online-Dating-Tips-to-Help-Keep-You-Safe-%25E2%2580%2593-Part-2Please think about how you can take action to help keep you and your loved ones safe during this National Crime Prevention Month and every day of every month!Stephen CarterStress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.comStephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.

Protect Your Residence During National Crime Prevention MonthOctober is National Crime Prevention Month. Celebrated since 1984, after a Presidential proclamation, it’s a perfect time to assess risk and take action to enhance your safety and the safety of your family members.But where should you start? I suggest beginning with your home.Get a Crime Prevention Inspection From PoliceWhether you live in a house or apartment, contact your local police department on their non-emergency phone number and ask if they have a crime prevention unit. Most police agencies have specially trained crime prevention specialists who will come to your residence, conduct a security inspection, and offer recommendations to increase safety.Protecting Your HouseHere are some suggestions if you live in a house:Walk around your home and look for thick shrubbery near doors and windows where a criminal could hide. Cut shrubbery down and back as much as possible. The idea is to create open sight lines from your driveway and street so anyone near the house can be easily seen.Test your outside lights and replace any burned out bulbs. Are lights bright enough to illuminate doors and other potential areas of risk properly? If more light is needed, install brighter bulbs or add additional outside lighting. Ideally, all sides of your home should be illuminated. Keep lights on from dusk to dawn.If you have a ladder in your yard, bring it in. An easily accessible ladder is an invitation for a criminal to break-in through a second story window.If you have a patio door, secure it using what’s called a charley bar (available at virtually any hardware store) or by placing a wooden dowel in the sliding door track. You can also purchase a pair of locally activated door or window alarms for less than $25.Ensure you have and use a peephole or an outside camera for your entrance door. Have and use a security chain or take other precautions before opening the door to anyone you don’t know. Have a phone in hand when answering the door in case you need to call for help.Consider installing a home alarm. Many modern alarm systems are modular and wireless. Professional monitoring is available costing roughly $15 to $25 per month, but if that’s not affordable you can have an alarm sound locally if a break-in is detected. Many modern systems can be set to notify you through a smartphone app allowing video and audio connection.Keep doors and windows locked whether you are home or out.Protecting Your ApartmentIf you live in an apartment with a first floor outside entrance, all of the suggestions about securing a house will apply.If you live in a building with an interior entrance door, ensure the hallway leading to your door is well lit. Have and use a door peephole or video camera to monitor the area near your door. Use a security chain or take other appropriate precautions before opening the door to someone you don't know, even if your building requires an access card or code to enter the main lobby.Consider installing a modern modular wireless alarm if your budget allows.More Crime Prevention TipsHere are other Stay Safe blogposts focused on helping to keep you safe:Are You Practicing Safe Parking in Lots and Garages: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/18/Are-You-Practicing-Safe-Parking-in-Lots-and-GaragesAre You as Safe as Possible When Walking in the World: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/05/Are-You-as-Safe-as-Possible-When-Walking-in-the-WorldHow to Avoid Danger When Walking on Campus: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/08/26/How-to-Avoid-Danger-When-Walking-on-Campus"Online Dating: Tips to Help Keep You Safe - Part 1 and Part 2: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2017/10/09/Online-Dating-Tips-to-Help-Keep-You-Safe---Part-1; Part 2: https://www.frea.support/single-post/2017/10/01/Online-Dating-Tips-to-Help-Keep-You-Safe-%25E2%2580%2593-Part-2Please think about how you can take action to help keep you and your loved ones safe during this National Crime Prevention Month and every day of every month!Stephen CarterStress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.comStephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.

Safe Living Today Episode 30 Show Notes Episode Title: How to Avoid Danger When Walking on Campus It’s that time of year. Students arrive on campuses ready to dive into new academic and living adventures.  It’s also a time to remind ourselves how important it is to stay safe on and off campus. Whether you’re living in a college residence or you're a commuter, walking long distances to class locations and social happenings is a fact of life for most students. As fall turns into winter, more and more of those footsteps happen during the night. Here is a simple, easy to remember way to help you or loved ones stay safe when walking on or near campus. The SAFE Walking Method Think of the word, SAFE. Each letter in SAFE represents an aspect of the SAFE Walking Method. S - Scan the environment: Keep your attention on your surroundings and NOT on your cellphone. Have your cellphone turned on and easily accessible, but avoid looking at the phone’s screen. Avoid also listening to music or other audio that draws attention away from awareness of your surroundings. Nothing is more important than staying present as you notice the people, topography, and area activity as you’re walking. A - Avoid danger zones: Avoid dark, poorly lit areas during evening and nighttime hours. Avoid shortcuts taking you in back of buildings, near wooded or overgrown areas, or away from main roads and walkways.  If you’re in a parking lot, avoid walking between parked cars. Walk in the travel lanes if designated walkways aren’t available, being careful to watch for moving cars from the front, back, and sides. Pay attention to cars pulling out of parking spots. Drivers may not see you, so be attentive and stay safe. F - Friends: Get a little help from your friends! If possible, walk in a group. If there are others walking in the area try to stay close to people walking in the same direction.  E - Erect and Confident: Stand tall with head up as you walk erect and briskly in a confident posture. Criminals are drawn to people who appear timid, inattentive, or fearful.  Know how to activate 911 or other emergency number on your cellphone. Have keys, access cards, and your cellphone easily accessible. You don’t want to fumble through your purse or book bag looking for these items as you approach your destination. Other Safety Actions There are other actions that can help keep you safe. These include wearing a personal loud, shrill alarm easily activated if you sense danger, having a loud police type whistle, and having pepper spray easily available.  While these personal security products may be helpful in a threatening situation, it’s vital to practice using them before they’re needed in an emergency. This is particularly true for pepper spray. One More Vital Item: Trust Your Gut One really, really important additional item: Trust your gut. If you sense a threat, act on that internal “something’s not right” signal! These SAFE walking actions suggested in this post require only your awareness and attention. If you feel threatened, act immediately by calling for help or taking other steps to eliminate the threat and ensure your safety. Recapping Your SAFE Walking Actions To recap, your SAFE walking actions are: * Scan the environment.
* Avoid danger zones.
* Friends and Others Walking: Walk with friends and other people in a group if possible.
* Erect and Confident: Assume an erect and confident posture as you walk briskly to your destination.
 Practicing SAFE walking on campus and in other locations will help you reduce risk and enhance personal safety. More Safety Tips For more tips on staying safe when on campus and public places, walking, or using parking lots and garages, see these other FREA posts,  “Are You Practicing Safe Parking in Lots and Garages?”, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/18/Are-You-Practicing-Safe-Parking-in-Lots-and-Garages, “Are You as Safe as Possible When Walking in the World?”, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/05/Are-You-as-Safe-as-Possible-When-Walking-in-the-World “Sexual Assault on Campus - Don’t be a Victim!, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2018/08/21/Sex-Assaults-on-Campus---Don%E2%80%99t-be-a-Victim  Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.

Safe Living Today Episode 30 Show Notes Episode Title: How to Avoid Danger When Walking on Campus It’s that time of year. Students arrive on campuses ready to dive into new academic and living adventures.  It’s also a time to remind ourselves how important it is to stay safe on and off campus. Whether you’re living in a college residence or you're a commuter, walking long distances to class locations and social happenings is a fact of life for most students. As fall turns into winter, more and more of those footsteps happen during the night. Here is a simple, easy to remember way to help you or loved ones stay safe when walking on or near campus. The SAFE Walking Method Think of the word, SAFE. Each letter in SAFE represents an aspect of the SAFE Walking Method. S - Scan the environment: Keep your attention on your surroundings and NOT on your cellphone. Have your cellphone turned on and easily accessible, but avoid looking at the phone’s screen. Avoid also listening to music or other audio that draws attention away from awareness of your surroundings. Nothing is more important than staying present as you notice the people, topography, and area activity as you’re walking. A - Avoid danger zones: Avoid dark, poorly lit areas during evening and nighttime hours. Avoid shortcuts taking you in back of buildings, near wooded or overgrown areas, or away from main roads and walkways.  If you’re in a parking lot, avoid walking between parked cars. Walk in the travel lanes if designated walkways aren’t available, being careful to watch for moving cars from the front, back, and sides. Pay attention to cars pulling out of parking spots. Drivers may not see you, so be attentive and stay safe. F - Friends: Get a little help from your friends! If possible, walk in a group. If there are others walking in the area try to stay close to people walking in the same direction.  E - Erect and Confident: Stand tall with head up as you walk erect and briskly in a confident posture. Criminals are drawn to people who appear timid, inattentive, or fearful.  Know how to activate 911 or other emergency number on your cellphone. Have keys, access cards, and your cellphone easily accessible. You don’t want to fumble through your purse or book bag looking for these items as you approach your destination. Other Safety Actions There are other actions that can help keep you safe. These include wearing a personal loud, shrill alarm easily activated if you sense danger, having a loud police type whistle, and having pepper spray easily available.  While these personal security products may be helpful in a threatening situation, it’s vital to practice using them before they’re needed in an emergency. This is particularly true for pepper spray. One More Vital Item: Trust Your Gut One really, really important additional item: Trust your gut. If you sense a threat, act on that internal “something’s not right” signal! These SAFE walking actions suggested in this post require only your awareness and attention. If you feel threatened, act immediately by calling for help or taking other steps to eliminate the threat and ensure your safety. Recapping Your SAFE Walking Actions To recap, your SAFE walking actions are: * Scan the environment.
* Avoid danger zones.
* Friends and Others Walking: Walk with friends and other people in a group if possible.
* Erect and Confident: Assume an erect and confident posture as you walk briskly to your destination.
 Practicing SAFE walking on campus and in other locations will help you reduce risk and enhance personal safety. More Safety Tips For more tips on staying safe when on campus and public places, walking, or using parking lots and garages, see these other FREA posts,  “Are You Practicing Safe Parking in Lots and Garages?”, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/18/Are-You-Practicing-Safe-Parking-in-Lots-and-Garages, “Are You as Safe as Possible When Walking in the World?”, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2019/03/05/Are-You-as-Safe-as-Possible-When-Walking-in-the-World “Sexual Assault on Campus - Don’t be a Victim!, at https://www.frea.support/single-post/2018/08/21/Sex-Assaults-on-Campus---Don%E2%80%99t-be-a-Victim  Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.

7 Ways to Stay Safe for National Safety MonthJune is National Safety Month! In this episode, I’ll share seven simple, easy ways to enhance your safety and the safety of your loved ones. With June being National Safety Month, I’m recording this episode for two of my podcasts. Those are, “Safe Living Today” and “Weird and Whacky Holidays”. Of course, Living Safely is neither weird nor whacky. As a former Chief of Police, Security Director and leader of the Life Safety and Business Recovery group for one of the largest Financial Services Companies in the world, keeping people safe is one of my passions.A mindset of safety is a wonderful way to enhance your physical and emotional wellbeing. It also can save you money and help you avoid accidents that bring on pain and suffering.Here are my seven safety suggestions:1. June 1 is the beginning of the hurricane season in the Northern hemisphere. Now is a great time to stock up on non-perishable food and water so you can ride out an extended power outage. Plan on at least one to two gallons of bottled water per person per day. If you’re using well water, you’ll need additional water for the toilet I suggest having enough food and water to sustain you and your family for at least a week and preferably longer. There is a “Use by” date on water containers, so check and make sure the water is fresh. Act now to stockpile adequate food, water, a working battery or hand cranked radio, fresh batteries, and at least two working flashlights. If you have pets, ensure you have adequate food for them as well. For a more expansive guide on stocking supplies and preparing for disasters, I’ll have a link to an earlier “Safe Living Today” episode entitled, “Hurricane Irma - Prepare and Stay Safe” plus the link to an excellent guide prepared by the Red Cross and FEMA linked in the show notes. YouTube version of podcast: https://youtu.be/jePlA_S5Xl8. Red Cross - FEMA Guide: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdf.2. Have a family meeting and go over fire safety procedures and escape routes. Remind everyone of the “drop and roll” method to snuff out clothes fires. Have a working fire extinguisher, working smoke detectors, and Carbon Monoxide detectors. If you’re using battery operated detectors, change the batteries. Even better, upgrade to the new long life detectors.3. Have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car. Ensure everyone in the family knows basic First Aid and CPR.4. Create a safety kit for your car. Flashlights, fresh batteries, a working battery or crank radio, blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks should all be part of your kit. Have cellphone charging cords in the car. If you have people with Android and iPhones, you need at least one correct cord for each type of cellphone.5. Ensure there is a working car jack, tire wrench, and spare tire in the car. Ensure all drivers know how to change a flat tire. Keep jumper cables in the car and ensure drivers know how to use them. I highly recommend having a portable battery charger capable of jumpstarting your car. You’ll find them on Amazon and other online retailers and they’re available at most auto parts stores as well. Remember to charge them every two to three months and then put them back in the car.6. Have a “Go Bag” ready that contains medications, copies important documents, and anything else you want to keep safe. Make sure you have copies of insurance policies, medical information, insurance ID cards, medical directives, drivers licenses, and Social Security cards.7. Look around your home or workspace and identify and eliminate any electrical, tripping, or other safety hazards.To summarize,Stock up on water and non-perishable food.Review fire safety procedures and ensure your detectors and fire extinguishers are working properly.Ensure you have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car and everyone knows First Aid and CPR.Have a safety kit in your car.Ensure you have jumper cables, a spare tire, a wrench, and a jack in the car. Ensure drivers know what to do in an emergency.Have a “Go Bag” ready with medications, prescriptions, and copies of all important documents.Identify and fix all safety hazards in your home.With June being National Safety Month, this is the time to take action and safeguard yourself and your family.To listen to other “Safe Living Today” episodes and to subscribe so you never miss an episode, visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next episode, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Blessed.

National Safety Month - 7 Ways to Stay Safe!Show NotesJune is National Safety Month! In this episode, I’ll share seven simple, easy ways to enhance your safety and the safety of your loved ones. With June being National Safety Month, I’m recording this episode for two of my podcasts. Those are, “Safe Living Today” and “Weird and Whacky Holidays”. Of course, Living Safely is neither weird nor whacky. As a former Chief of Police, Security Director and leader of the Life Safety and Business Recovery group for one of the largest Financial Services Companies in the world, keeping people safe is one of my passions.A mindset of safety is a wonderful way to enhance your physical and emotional wellbeing. It also can save you money and help you avoid accidents that bring on pain and suffering.Here are my seven safety suggestions:1. June 1 is the beginning of the hurricane season in the Northern hemisphere. Now is a great time to stock up on non-perishable food and water so you can ride out an extended power outage. Plan on at least one to two gallons of bottled water per person per day. If you’re using well water, you’ll need additional water for the toilet I suggest having enough food and water to sustain you and your family for at least a week and preferably longer. There is a “Use by” date on water containers, so check and make sure the water is fresh. Act now to stockpile adequate food, water, a working battery or hand cranked radio, fresh batteries, and at least two working flashlights. If you have pets, ensure you have adequate food for them as well. For a more expansive guide on stocking supplies and preparing for disasters, I’ll have a link to an earlier “Safe Living Today” episode entitled, “Hurricane Irma - Prepare and Stay Safe” plus the link to an excellent guide prepared by the Red Cross and FEMA linked in the show notes. YouTube version of podcast: https://youtu.be/jePlA_S5Xl8. Red Cross - FEMA Guide: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdf.2. Have a family meeting and go over fire safety procedures and escape routes. Remind everyone of the “drop and roll” method to snuff out clothes fires. Have a working fire extinguisher, working smoke detectors, and Carbon Monoxide detectors. If you’re using battery operated detectors, change the batteries. Even better, upgrade to the new long life detectors.3. Have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car. Ensure everyone in the family knows basic First Aid and CPR.4. Create a safety kit for your car. Flashlights, fresh batteries, a working battery or crank radio, blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks should all be part of your kit. Have cellphone charging cords in the car. If you have people with Android and iPhones, you need at least one correct cord for each type of cellphone.5. Ensure there is a working car jack, tire wrench, and spare tire in the car. Ensure all drivers know how to change a flat tire. Keep jumper cables in the car and ensure drivers know how to use them. I highly recommend having a portable battery charger capable of jumpstarting your car. You’ll find them on Amazon and other online retailers and they’re available at most auto parts stores as well. Remember to charge them every two to three months and then put them back in the car.6. Have a “Go Bag” ready that contains medications, copies important documents, and anything else you want to keep safe. Make sure you have copies of insurance policies, medical information, insurance ID cards, medical directives, drivers licenses, and Social Security cards.7. Look around your home or workspace and identify and eliminate any electrical, tripping, or other safety hazards.To summarize,* Stock up on water and non-perishable food.* Review fire safety procedures and ensure your detectors and fire extinguishers are working properly.* Ensure you have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car and everyone knows First Aid and CPR.* Have a safety kit in your car.* Ensure you have jumper cables, a spare tire, a wrench, and a jack in the car. Ensure drivers know what to do in an emergency.* Have a “Go Bag” ready with medications, prescriptions, and copies of all important documents.* Identify and fix all safety hazards in your home.With June being National Safety Month, this is the time to take action and safeguard yourself and your family.To listen to other “Safe Living Today” episodes and to subscribe so you never miss an episode, visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next episode, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Blessed.

7 Ways to Stay Safe for National Safety MonthJune is National Safety Month! In this episode, I’ll share seven simple, easy ways to enhance your safety and the safety of your loved ones. With June being National Safety Month, I’m recording this episode for two of my podcasts. Those are, “Safe Living Today” and “Weird and Whacky Holidays”. Of course, Living Safely is neither weird nor whacky. As a former Chief of Police, Security Director and leader of the Life Safety and Business Recovery group for one of the largest Financial Services Companies in the world, keeping people safe is one of my passions.A mindset of safety is a wonderful way to enhance your physical and emotional wellbeing. It also can save you money and help you avoid accidents that bring on pain and suffering.Here are my seven safety suggestions:1. June 1 is the beginning of the hurricane season in the Northern hemisphere. Now is a great time to stock up on non-perishable food and water so you can ride out an extended power outage. Plan on at least one to two gallons of bottled water per person per day. If you’re using well water, you’ll need additional water for the toilet I suggest having enough food and water to sustain you and your family for at least a week and preferably longer. There is a “Use by” date on water containers, so check and make sure the water is fresh. Act now to stockpile adequate food, water, a working battery or hand cranked radio, fresh batteries, and at least two working flashlights. If you have pets, ensure you have adequate food for them as well. For a more expansive guide on stocking supplies and preparing for disasters, I’ll have a link to an earlier “Safe Living Today” episode entitled, “Hurricane Irma - Prepare and Stay Safe” plus the link to an excellent guide prepared by the Red Cross and FEMA linked in the show notes. YouTube version of podcast: https://youtu.be/jePlA_S5Xl8. Red Cross - FEMA Guide: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdf.2. Have a family meeting and go over fire safety procedures and escape routes. Remind everyone of the “drop and roll” method to snuff out clothes fires. Have a working fire extinguisher, working smoke detectors, and Carbon Monoxide detectors. If you’re using battery operated detectors, change the batteries. Even better, upgrade to the new long life detectors.3. Have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car. Ensure everyone in the family knows basic First Aid and CPR.4. Create a safety kit for your car. Flashlights, fresh batteries, a working battery or crank radio, blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks should all be part of your kit. Have cellphone charging cords in the car. If you have people with Android and iPhones, you need at least one correct cord for each type of cellphone.5. Ensure there is a working car jack, tire wrench, and spare tire in the car. Ensure all drivers know how to change a flat tire. Keep jumper cables in the car and ensure drivers know how to use them. I highly recommend having a portable battery charger capable of jumpstarting your car. You’ll find them on Amazon and other online retailers and they’re available at most auto parts stores as well. Remember to charge them every two to three months and then put them back in the car.6. Have a “Go Bag” ready that contains medications, copies important documents, and anything else you want to keep safe. Make sure you have copies of insurance policies, medical information, insurance ID cards, medical directives, drivers licenses, and Social Security cards.7. Look around your home or workspace and identify and eliminate any electrical, tripping, or other safety hazards.To summarize,Stock up on water and non-perishable food.Review fire safety procedures and ensure your detectors and fire extinguishers are working properly.Ensure you have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car and everyone knows First Aid and CPR.Have a safety kit in your car.Ensure you have jumper cables, a spare tire, a wrench, and a jack in the car. Ensure drivers know what to do in an emergency.Have a “Go Bag” ready with medications, prescriptions, and copies of all important documents.Identify and fix all safety hazards in your home.With June being National Safety Month, this is the time to take action and safeguard yourself and your family.To listen to other “Safe Living Today” episodes and to subscribe so you never miss an episode, visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next episode, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Blessed.

National Safety Month - 7 Ways to Stay Safe!Show NotesJune is National Safety Month! In this episode, I’ll share seven simple, easy ways to enhance your safety and the safety of your loved ones. With June being National Safety Month, I’m recording this episode for two of my podcasts. Those are, “Safe Living Today” and “Weird and Whacky Holidays”. Of course, Living Safely is neither weird nor whacky. As a former Chief of Police, Security Director and leader of the Life Safety and Business Recovery group for one of the largest Financial Services Companies in the world, keeping people safe is one of my passions.A mindset of safety is a wonderful way to enhance your physical and emotional wellbeing. It also can save you money and help you avoid accidents that bring on pain and suffering.Here are my seven safety suggestions:1. June 1 is the beginning of the hurricane season in the Northern hemisphere. Now is a great time to stock up on non-perishable food and water so you can ride out an extended power outage. Plan on at least one to two gallons of bottled water per person per day. If you’re using well water, you’ll need additional water for the toilet I suggest having enough food and water to sustain you and your family for at least a week and preferably longer. There is a “Use by” date on water containers, so check and make sure the water is fresh. Act now to stockpile adequate food, water, a working battery or hand cranked radio, fresh batteries, and at least two working flashlights. If you have pets, ensure you have adequate food for them as well. For a more expansive guide on stocking supplies and preparing for disasters, I’ll have a link to an earlier “Safe Living Today” episode entitled, “Hurricane Irma - Prepare and Stay Safe” plus the link to an excellent guide prepared by the Red Cross and FEMA linked in the show notes. YouTube version of podcast: https://youtu.be/jePlA_S5Xl8. Red Cross - FEMA Guide: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdf.2. Have a family meeting and go over fire safety procedures and escape routes. Remind everyone of the “drop and roll” method to snuff out clothes fires. Have a working fire extinguisher, working smoke detectors, and Carbon Monoxide detectors. If you’re using battery operated detectors, change the batteries. Even better, upgrade to the new long life detectors.3. Have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car. Ensure everyone in the family knows basic First Aid and CPR.4. Create a safety kit for your car. Flashlights, fresh batteries, a working battery or crank radio, blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks should all be part of your kit. Have cellphone charging cords in the car. If you have people with Android and iPhones, you need at least one correct cord for each type of cellphone.5. Ensure there is a working car jack, tire wrench, and spare tire in the car. Ensure all drivers know how to change a flat tire. Keep jumper cables in the car and ensure drivers know how to use them. I highly recommend having a portable battery charger capable of jumpstarting your car. You’ll find them on Amazon and other online retailers and they’re available at most auto parts stores as well. Remember to charge them every two to three months and then put them back in the car.6. Have a “Go Bag” ready that contains medications, copies important documents, and anything else you want to keep safe. Make sure you have copies of insurance policies, medical information, insurance ID cards, medical directives, drivers licenses, and Social Security cards.7. Look around your home or workspace and identify and eliminate any electrical, tripping, or other safety hazards.To summarize,* Stock up on water and non-perishable food.* Review fire safety procedures and ensure your detectors and fire extinguishers are working properly.* Ensure you have a well stocked First Aid kit in your home and car and everyone knows First Aid and CPR.* Have a safety kit in your car.* Ensure you have jumper cables, a spare tire, a wrench, and a jack in the car. Ensure drivers know what to do in an emergency.* Have a “Go Bag” ready with medications, prescriptions, and copies of all important documents.* Identify and fix all safety hazards in your home.With June being National Safety Month, this is the time to take action and safeguard yourself and your family.To listen to other “Safe Living Today” episodes and to subscribe so you never miss an episode, visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next episode, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Blessed.

New FBI Internet Crime Report - How to Protect Yourself!On April 22, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, the IC3, released its annual 2018 report on Internet reported crime statistics for 2014 through 2018.Here are some key findings:- Internet-enabled theft, fraud, and exploitation remain pervasive and were responsible for a staggering $2.7 billion in financial losses in 2018. Reported losses for 2015 totaled less than $1.1 billion; this means reported losses have nearly tripled in three short years. - IC3 received 351,936 complaints in 2018—an average of more than 900 every day. - The age group most at risk were those over 50 years of age.- The most frequently reported complaints were for non-payment/non-delivery scams, extortion, and personal data breaches. Scams included email compromises, romance / confidence frauds, and investment / pyramid / Ponzi schemes. - Bright spots reported by the IC3 include the establishment in February 2018 of the Recovery Asset Team and its success in recovering funds lost in business email compromise scams. The team was able to successfully recover more than $192 million in funds—a recovery rate of 75 percent.- According to Donna Gregory, the IC3 Chief, “The 2018 report shows how prevalent these crimes are. It also shows that the financial toll is substantial and a victim can be anyone who uses a connected device.”- To increase recovery chances, it is imperative victims contact their bank and IC3 immediately. - The IC3 website provides a list of scams along with avoidance tips. Visit: https:/www.ic3.govcrimeschemes.aspx- Preventive actions include keeping hardware and software updated and protected by anti-virus programs and strong passwords, learning to recognize suspicious messages, and researching and verifying the legitimacy of every offer, person, message, or opportunity presented online. You’ll find more prevention tips at https://www.ic3.govpreventiontips.aspxSteve Carter, the show’s host, recommends ongoing vigilance to help ensure online safety to include verifying the source of any and all emails asking you to click a link. Change passwords frequently. While not covered in the podcast, using a password tool such as LastPass https://www.lastpass.com/ can enhance online security. See “PC Magazine” review of password managershttps://www.pcmag.com/roundup300318/the-best-password-managersTo report an Internet related crime, go to https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspxSummary news release: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/ic3-releases-2018-internet-crime-report-042219To download the full report, go to https://www.ic3.gov/media/annualreport/2018_IC3Report.pdfTo contact the show, subscribe, or listen to previous episodes, go to http://SafeLivingToday.com

New FBI Internet Crime Report - How to Protect Yourself!On April 22, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, the IC3, released its annual 2018 report on Internet reported crime statistics for 2014 through 2018.Here are some key findings:- Internet-enabled theft, fraud, and exploitation remain pervasive and were responsible for a staggering $2.7 billion in financial losses in 2018. Reported losses for 2015 totaled less than $1.1 billion; this means reported losses have nearly tripled in three short years. - IC3 received 351,936 complaints in 2018—an average of more than 900 every day. - The age group most at risk were those over 50 years of age.- The most frequently reported complaints were for non-payment/non-delivery scams, extortion, and personal data breaches. Scams included email compromises, romance / confidence frauds, and investment / pyramid / Ponzi schemes. - Bright spots reported by the IC3 include the establishment in February 2018 of the Recovery Asset Team and its success in recovering funds lost in business email compromise scams. The team was able to successfully recover more than $192 million in funds—a recovery rate of 75 percent.- According to Donna Gregory, the IC3 Chief, “The 2018 report shows how prevalent these crimes are. It also shows that the financial toll is substantial and a victim can be anyone who uses a connected device.”- To increase recovery chances, it is imperative victims contact their bank and IC3 immediately. - The IC3 website provides a list of scams along with avoidance tips. Visit: https:/www.ic3.govcrimeschemes.aspx- Preventive actions include keeping hardware and software updated and protected by anti-virus programs and strong passwords, learning to recognize suspicious messages, and researching and verifying the legitimacy of every offer, person, message, or opportunity presented online. You’ll find more prevention tips at https://www.ic3.govpreventiontips.aspxSteve Carter, the show’s host, recommends ongoing vigilance to help ensure online safety to include verifying the source of any and all emails asking you to click a link. Change passwords frequently. While not covered in the podcast, using a password tool such as LastPass https://www.lastpass.com/ can enhance online security. See “PC Magazine” review of password managershttps://www.pcmag.com/roundup300318/the-best-password-managersTo report an Internet related crime, go to https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspxSummary news release: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/ic3-releases-2018-internet-crime-report-042219To download the full report, go to https://www.ic3.gov/media/annualreport/2018_IC3Report.pdfTo contact the show, subscribe, or listen to previous episodes, go to http://SafeLivingToday.com

Protect Your Kids at Petting Zoos From Drug Resistant BacteriaShow Notes:A new study finds petting zoos can be breeding grounds for drug resistant bacteria (MDR) including e coli. These bacteria can place anyone touching animals at risk, particularly young children.This study was done by researchers from Ariel University in Israel. They choose eight petting zoos at random, collecting fecal matter samples and swabs from fur, skin, and feathers from 228 animals representing 42 species. Of particular interest were two bacteria types, extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC-producing Enterobacteriaceae (AmpC-E). These bacteria are known to be highly resistant to antibiotics.About 12% of animals were colonized with at least one of the bacterial strains. Researchers discovered 35 bacterial species including two strains of e coli. E coli can cause serious The authors found that nearly 1 in 8 animals (12%) were found to be colonized with at least one of the two antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, with 35 different recovered species of bacteria. A quarter of animals that tested positive for drug-resistant bacteria had more than one bacterial strain, including two e. coli strains. E coli can cause serious diarrhea and other infections.According to researchers, children are at elevated risk of illness from these pathogens. One of the Researchers Speaks:Professor Shiri Navon-Venezia at Ariel University, one of the researchers, comments,“Our findings demonstrate that animals in petting zoos can result in shedding and transmission of MDR pathogens that may cause illness for human visitors, even when the animals appear healthy,”She continues (note: the professor was identified as "he" in the audio. My apology for the error),“We recognize the high educational and emotional value of petting zoos for children, therefore, we strongly recommend that petting zoo management teams implement a strict hygiene and infection control policy, together with rationalized antibiotic policy, in order to reduce the risk of transmission between animals and visitors.”Common Sense PrecautionsIf you take your kids or grandkids to petting zoos, apply these common sense precautions:- No food or drink consumption by kids until after they have visited and touched all of the animals AND HAVE WASHED THEIR HANDS AND EXPOSED SKIN COMPLETELY.- Don’t let them touch any objects that will be touched by other people during the time they’re interacting with petting zoo animals.- If there is any indication an animal is being treated with antibiotics, don’t let children touch or come near that animal.- As soon as possible, change children’s clothing. Place the clothing items directly in the washer and wash the clothes in hot water and dry with high heat.- Ensure YOU wash your hands and exposed skin after touching clothes worn by children at the petting zoo.For more, “Safe Living Today” episodes, visit us at www.SafeLivingToday.com.Sources and Resources“Petting Zoos May Be Crawling With Drug-Resistant Bacteria, Putting Kids At Risk”. https://www.studyfinds.org/petting-zoos-multi-drug-resistant-bacteria/.European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. "Petting zoos could potentially transmit highly virulent drug-resistant bacteria to visitors." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 14 April 2019. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190414111457.htm

Protect Your Kids at Petting Zoos From Drug Resistant BacteriaShow Notes:A new study finds petting zoos can be breeding grounds for drug resistant bacteria (MDR) including e coli. These bacteria can place anyone touching animals at risk, particularly young children.This study was done by researchers from Ariel University in Israel. They choose eight petting zoos at random, collecting fecal matter samples and swabs from fur, skin, and feathers from 228 animals representing 42 species. Of particular interest were two bacteria types, extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC-producing Enterobacteriaceae (AmpC-E). These bacteria are known to be highly resistant to antibiotics.About 12% of animals were colonized with at least one of the bacterial strains. Researchers discovered 35 bacterial species including two strains of e coli. E coli can cause serious The authors found that nearly 1 in 8 animals (12%) were found to be colonized with at least one of the two antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, with 35 different recovered species of bacteria. A quarter of animals that tested positive for drug-resistant bacteria had more than one bacterial strain, including two e. coli strains. E coli can cause serious diarrhea and other infections.According to researchers, children are at elevated risk of illness from these pathogens. One of the Researchers Speaks:Professor Shiri Navon-Venezia at Ariel University, one of the researchers, comments,“Our findings demonstrate that animals in petting zoos can result in shedding and transmission of MDR pathogens that may cause illness for human visitors, even when the animals appear healthy,”She continues (note: the professor was identified as "he" in the audio. My apology for the error),“We recognize the high educational and emotional value of petting zoos for children, therefore, we strongly recommend that petting zoo management teams implement a strict hygiene and infection control policy, together with rationalized antibiotic policy, in order to reduce the risk of transmission between animals and visitors.”Common Sense PrecautionsIf you take your kids or grandkids to petting zoos, apply these common sense precautions:- No food or drink consumption by kids until after they have visited and touched all of the animals AND HAVE WASHED THEIR HANDS AND EXPOSED SKIN COMPLETELY.- Don’t let them touch any objects that will be touched by other people during the time they’re interacting with petting zoo animals.- If there is any indication an animal is being treated with antibiotics, don’t let children touch or come near that animal.- As soon as possible, change children’s clothing. Place the clothing items directly in the washer and wash the clothes in hot water and dry with high heat.- Ensure YOU wash your hands and exposed skin after touching clothes worn by children at the petting zoo.For more, “Safe Living Today” episodes, visit us at www.SafeLivingToday.com.Sources and Resources“Petting Zoos May Be Crawling With Drug-Resistant Bacteria, Putting Kids At Risk”. https://www.studyfinds.org/petting-zoos-multi-drug-resistant-bacteria/.European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. "Petting zoos could potentially transmit highly virulent drug-resistant bacteria to visitors." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 14 April 2019. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190414111457.htm

Show Notes: "Safe Parking Tips for Parking Lots and Garages". "Safe Living Today Show", Ep 25.According to the most recent research from the *U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, there were more than 400,000 violent crimes in parking lots and garages on average each year for the four year study period. What can you do to help keep yourself safe when walking to and from your auto in parking lots and garages? Safe Parking Mindset and Actions * When entering a parking lot or garage, scan the area carefully. Look for one or more people who seem to be loitering. If there is any concern, park somewhere else or leave. 
 
* If you park in a multilevel lot, make note (as in write it down) where you are exactly including the level, the parking space number if available, and location of the closest elevator or stairwell. If it can be done safely, walk up or down the ramps rather than use a stairwell or elevator.
 * If possible, when walking from or to your car carry your driver’s license, money, and credit cards in a pocket rather than in your purse.
 * Walk briskly and confidently. Studies show criminals will look for people who appear nervous or unsure of themselves as they walk.
 * Avoid conversations. Keep walking.
 * Whenever possible, walk with others. If security staff members are available, ask for an escort.
 * When walking, scan the environment. Have your phone on, easily available, and ready to call 911 (or other emergency number for your location). 
 * Have your ignition remote unit or car keys in hand and ready. Many remote units have an emergency horn activator. Know how to activate that safety feature.
 * When approaching your car, look beneath the vehicle and then look in the back seat to ensure no one is hiding in either place. 
 * Enter the car and immediately lock the doors. Start your engine and leave. DO NOT check your phone, fix your makeup, or do anything else that delays your departure. 
 The Most Important Safety Measure The most important safety measure is to trust your intuition. Trust your gut. If something doesn’t seem quite right, get help or take other appropriate protective action immediately. Your Next Stay Safe Mini Tip: How to Stay Safe on City Streets In our next Stay Safe post, you’ll learn how to help mitigate the points of highest risk while walking on city streets. This post is part of our"Stay Safe" Mini Tip Posts to Keep You Safe Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.  *Citation: The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=tp&tid=44According to the most recent research from the *U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, there were more than 400,000 violent crimes in parking lots and garages on average each year for the four year study period. What can you do to help keep yourself safe when walking to and from your auto in parking lots and garages? Safe Parking Mindset and Actions * When entering a parking lot or garage, scan the area carefully. Look for one or more people who seem to be loitering. If there is any concern, park somewhere else or leave. 
 
* If you park in a multilevel lot, make note (as in write it down) where you are exactly including the level, the parking space number if available, and location of the closest elevator or stairwell. If it can be done safely, walk up or down the ramps rather than use a stairwell or elevator.
 * If possible, when walking from or to your car carry your driver’s license, money, and credit cards in a pocket rather than in your purse.
 * Walk briskly and confidently. Studies show criminals will look for people who appear nervous or unsure of themselves as they walk.
 * Avoid conversations. Keep walking.
 * Whenever possible, walk with others. If security staff members are available, ask for an escort.
 * When walking, scan the environment. Have your phone on, easily available, and ready to call 911 (or other emergency number for your location). 
 * Have your ignition remote unit or car keys in hand and ready. Many remote units have an emergency horn activator. Know how to activate that safety feature.
 * When approaching your car, look beneath the vehicle and then look in the back seat to ensure no one is hiding in either place. 
 * Enter the car and immediately lock the doors. Start your engine and leave. DO NOT check your phone, fix your makeup, or do anything else that delays your departure. 
 The Most Important Safety Measure The most important safety measure is to trust your intuition. Trust your gut. If something doesn’t seem quite right, get help or take other appropriate protective action immediately. Your Next Stay Safe Mini Tip: How to Stay Safe on City Streets In our next Stay Safe post, you’ll learn how to help mitigate the points of highest risk while walking on city streets. This post is part of our"Stay Safe" Mini Tip Posts to Keep You Safe Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.  *Citation: The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=tp&tid=44

Show Notes: "Safe Parking Tips for Parking Lots and Garages". "Safe Living Today Show", Ep 25.According to the most recent research from the *U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, there were more than 400,000 violent crimes in parking lots and garages on average each year for the four year study period. What can you do to help keep yourself safe when walking to and from your auto in parking lots and garages? Safe Parking Mindset and Actions * When entering a parking lot or garage, scan the area carefully. Look for one or more people who seem to be loitering. If there is any concern, park somewhere else or leave. 
 
* If you park in a multilevel lot, make note (as in write it down) where you are exactly including the level, the parking space number if available, and location of the closest elevator or stairwell. If it can be done safely, walk up or down the ramps rather than use a stairwell or elevator.
 * If possible, when walking from or to your car carry your driver’s license, money, and credit cards in a pocket rather than in your purse.
 * Walk briskly and confidently. Studies show criminals will look for people who appear nervous or unsure of themselves as they walk.
 * Avoid conversations. Keep walking.
 * Whenever possible, walk with others. If security staff members are available, ask for an escort.
 * When walking, scan the environment. Have your phone on, easily available, and ready to call 911 (or other emergency number for your location). 
 * Have your ignition remote unit or car keys in hand and ready. Many remote units have an emergency horn activator. Know how to activate that safety feature.
 * When approaching your car, look beneath the vehicle and then look in the back seat to ensure no one is hiding in either place. 
 * Enter the car and immediately lock the doors. Start your engine and leave. DO NOT check your phone, fix your makeup, or do anything else that delays your departure. 
 The Most Important Safety Measure The most important safety measure is to trust your intuition. Trust your gut. If something doesn’t seem quite right, get help or take other appropriate protective action immediately. Your Next Stay Safe Mini Tip: How to Stay Safe on City Streets In our next Stay Safe post, you’ll learn how to help mitigate the points of highest risk while walking on city streets. This post is part of our"Stay Safe" Mini Tip Posts to Keep You Safe Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.  *Citation: The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=tp&tid=44According to the most recent research from the *U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, there were more than 400,000 violent crimes in parking lots and garages on average each year for the four year study period. What can you do to help keep yourself safe when walking to and from your auto in parking lots and garages? Safe Parking Mindset and Actions * When entering a parking lot or garage, scan the area carefully. Look for one or more people who seem to be loitering. If there is any concern, park somewhere else or leave. 
 
* If you park in a multilevel lot, make note (as in write it down) where you are exactly including the level, the parking space number if available, and location of the closest elevator or stairwell. If it can be done safely, walk up or down the ramps rather than use a stairwell or elevator.
 * If possible, when walking from or to your car carry your driver’s license, money, and credit cards in a pocket rather than in your purse.
 * Walk briskly and confidently. Studies show criminals will look for people who appear nervous or unsure of themselves as they walk.
 * Avoid conversations. Keep walking.
 * Whenever possible, walk with others. If security staff members are available, ask for an escort.
 * When walking, scan the environment. Have your phone on, easily available, and ready to call 911 (or other emergency number for your location). 
 * Have your ignition remote unit or car keys in hand and ready. Many remote units have an emergency horn activator. Know how to activate that safety feature.
 * When approaching your car, look beneath the vehicle and then look in the back seat to ensure no one is hiding in either place. 
 * Enter the car and immediately lock the doors. Start your engine and leave. DO NOT check your phone, fix your makeup, or do anything else that delays your departure. 
 The Most Important Safety Measure The most important safety measure is to trust your intuition. Trust your gut. If something doesn’t seem quite right, get help or take other appropriate protective action immediately. Your Next Stay Safe Mini Tip: How to Stay Safe on City Streets In our next Stay Safe post, you’ll learn how to help mitigate the points of highest risk while walking on city streets. This post is part of our"Stay Safe" Mini Tip Posts to Keep You Safe Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Email: SafeLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts.  *Citation: The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), Bureau of Justice Statistics. https://www.bjs.gov/index.cfm?ty=tp&tid=44

Show Notes:First episode in the 2-minute safety tip series in the Safe Living Today show.Are you as attentive as possible when you’re walking in public? Do you give 100% attention to your surroundings when you’re out in the world? Do you use your cellphone as a lifeline when walking or do you take these outside walking opportunities to text or talk to friends and family members? Here’s the bottom line:Safe Walking Means No Text or Talking!To stay as safe as possible, give 100% of your attention to your surroundings. Keep your eyes up and away from your cellphone. Wait until you’re in a safe location before texting or talking.As you’re walking with your cellphone in hand ready to call 911 - or the emergency number for your location - if necessary, continually scan the surroundings and be ready to act if you sense danger or even get an uneasy feeling that something is just not right.Trust your gut. Go to a place of safety and get help. For more episodes visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.

Show Notes:First episode in the 2-minute safety tip series in the Safe Living Today show.Are you as attentive as possible when you’re walking in public? Do you give 100% attention to your surroundings when you’re out in the world? Do you use your cellphone as a lifeline when walking or do you take these outside walking opportunities to text or talk to friends and family members? Here’s the bottom line:Safe Walking Means No Text or Talking!To stay as safe as possible, give 100% of your attention to your surroundings. Keep your eyes up and away from your cellphone. Wait until you’re in a safe location before texting or talking.As you’re walking with your cellphone in hand ready to call 911 - or the emergency number for your location - if necessary, continually scan the surroundings and be ready to act if you sense danger or even get an uneasy feeling that something is just not right.Trust your gut. Go to a place of safety and get help. For more episodes visit http://SafeLivingToday.com.

Human trafficking and slavery continue to be insidious societal cancers affecting millions of people around the world. January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. At FREA, we're highlighting this issue in January so you can be aware of the risks and take action to protect you and your loved ones. Is there anything we can do to keep you and loved ones safe?  The answer is absolutely “Yes”.  First, some context. What is Human Trafficking? The Polaris Project, a nonprofit charity working since 2002 to end trafficking, tells us: *"Human trafficking is the business of stealing freedom for profit. In some cases, traffickers trick, defraud or physically force victims into providing commercial sex. In others, victims are lied to, assaulted, threatened or manipulated into working under inhumane, illegal or otherwise unacceptable conditions. It is a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to 24.9 million people around the world." History In 2007, the United States Senate designated January 11th as, “National Human Trafficking Awareness Day”. On December  31, 2015, President Obama proclaimed the entire month of January as, "National Slavery and Human Trafficking Month". This problem isn’t limited to Western countries. Human trafficking and slavery is a huge global scourge. Experts estimate there are 20 to 30 million people in slavery around the world.  The Sad Statistics  The U.S. State Department estimates there are 600,000 to 800,000 people trafficked across international borders each year. Eighty percent of those people are female and half are children. The FBI says as many as 18,000 people are trafficked every year in the U.S. alone. Based on reports from non-profits and agencies who work in the field of human trafficking, the number of victims is likely much higher. Sadly, children are 12 to 14 years old on average when they enter the sex trade. Many are runaways who experienced abuse before leaving home. Human trafficking is the third largest international crime generating $32 billion every year, with $15.5 billion of that number made in industrialized countries. Only drugs and weapons trafficking earn more money. Human Misery From Human Trafficking  Let’s look beyond the numbers. Every person, every child lured or forced into sex or labor slavery is a living, breathing human being. They will experience unspeakable acts of brutality.  The health and psychological toll victims experience can last a lifetime. Even when victims are freed from physical bondage, emotional pain may never be extinguished. Fortunately, many human traffic survivors can be helped to achieve emotional wellbeing using methods shared in the “Resources” section of our https://FREA.support website. How to Protect You and Your Loved Ones Here are ways to reduce risk for you, children, and teens: * First, talk about the reality of human trafficking with your children and teens.
 * Pay attention to your children’s social media communications. Know who they are talking with, texting, or connecting with on social media.
 * If you are an adult or older teen who interacts with people you don't know personally on social media, this same warning applies to you. The "person of your dreams" you meet on social media could turn out to be a criminal planning to gain your trust and then force you into human trafficking.
 * Traffickers are heavy users of social media. They target vulnerable children and teens, gaining their trust online and then arranging in-person meetings. During such meetings, children are either lured into sexual acts or are outright kidnapped.
 It’s not only children and teens who are targets. Vulnerable adults, usually women, are also at risk. Get Help Now! If you’re a victim or are in touch with a victim, call the National Trafficking Hot-line at 888-373-7888. You can also text 233733 using “Help” or “Info”. Get help now! There is a way out of bondage.  If you or a loved one is at risk, again, get help now before you or your loved one is enticed or kidnapped into the dark, degrading, and life threatening world of human trafficking. Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Podcast Website and Contact: www.SafeLivingToday.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts. References and Resources: *The Polaris Project Non-profit Charity: https://polarisproject.org/ National Human Trafficking Hotline: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/ National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: http://www.missingkids.com/home NetSmartz411: An online resource for answering questions about Internet safety, computers, and the web. http://www.netsmartz411.org/. Presidential Proclamation - National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2015/12/31/presidential-proclamation-national-slavery-and-human-trafficking Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse: Blog post associated with this podcast episode: http://bit.ly/2R0g886

Human trafficking and slavery continue to be insidious societal cancers affecting millions of people around the world. January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. At FREA, we're highlighting this issue in January so you can be aware of the risks and take action to protect you and your loved ones. Is there anything we can do to keep you and loved ones safe?  The answer is absolutely “Yes”.  First, some context. What is Human Trafficking? The Polaris Project, a nonprofit charity working since 2002 to end trafficking, tells us: *"Human trafficking is the business of stealing freedom for profit. In some cases, traffickers trick, defraud or physically force victims into providing commercial sex. In others, victims are lied to, assaulted, threatened or manipulated into working under inhumane, illegal or otherwise unacceptable conditions. It is a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to 24.9 million people around the world." History In 2007, the United States Senate designated January 11th as, “National Human Trafficking Awareness Day”. On December  31, 2015, President Obama proclaimed the entire month of January as, "National Slavery and Human Trafficking Month". This problem isn’t limited to Western countries. Human trafficking and slavery is a huge global scourge. Experts estimate there are 20 to 30 million people in slavery around the world.  The Sad Statistics  The U.S. State Department estimates there are 600,000 to 800,000 people trafficked across international borders each year. Eighty percent of those people are female and half are children. The FBI says as many as 18,000 people are trafficked every year in the U.S. alone. Based on reports from non-profits and agencies who work in the field of human trafficking, the number of victims is likely much higher. Sadly, children are 12 to 14 years old on average when they enter the sex trade. Many are runaways who experienced abuse before leaving home. Human trafficking is the third largest international crime generating $32 billion every year, with $15.5 billion of that number made in industrialized countries. Only drugs and weapons trafficking earn more money. Human Misery From Human Trafficking  Let’s look beyond the numbers. Every person, every child lured or forced into sex or labor slavery is a living, breathing human being. They will experience unspeakable acts of brutality.  The health and psychological toll victims experience can last a lifetime. Even when victims are freed from physical bondage, emotional pain may never be extinguished. Fortunately, many human traffic survivors can be helped to achieve emotional wellbeing using methods shared in the “Resources” section of our https://FREA.support website. How to Protect You and Your Loved Ones Here are ways to reduce risk for you, children, and teens: * First, talk about the reality of human trafficking with your children and teens.
 * Pay attention to your children’s social media communications. Know who they are talking with, texting, or connecting with on social media.
 * If you are an adult or older teen who interacts with people you don't know personally on social media, this same warning applies to you. The "person of your dreams" you meet on social media could turn out to be a criminal planning to gain your trust and then force you into human trafficking.
 * Traffickers are heavy users of social media. They target vulnerable children and teens, gaining their trust online and then arranging in-person meetings. During such meetings, children are either lured into sexual acts or are outright kidnapped.
 It’s not only children and teens who are targets. Vulnerable adults, usually women, are also at risk. Get Help Now! If you’re a victim or are in touch with a victim, call the National Trafficking Hot-line at 888-373-7888. You can also text 233733 using “Help” or “Info”. Get help now! There is a way out of bondage.  If you or a loved one is at risk, again, get help now before you or your loved one is enticed or kidnapped into the dark, degrading, and life threatening world of human trafficking. Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Podcast Website and Contact: www.SafeLivingToday.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" and "Mind Over Stress" podcasts. References and Resources: *The Polaris Project Non-profit Charity: https://polarisproject.org/ National Human Trafficking Hotline: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/ National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: http://www.missingkids.com/home NetSmartz411: An online resource for answering questions about Internet safety, computers, and the web. http://www.netsmartz411.org/. Presidential Proclamation - National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2015/12/31/presidential-proclamation-national-slavery-and-human-trafficking Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse: Blog post associated with this podcast episode: http://bit.ly/2R0g886

Show Notes - How to Protect Against Cell Phone Created Cancer RiskComments or questions: Email safelivingtoday@gmail.comThis episode of safe living today we are going to answer the question is there cancer risk when using your cell phone? And, if so, is there anything we can do to reduce that risk? Hello, this is Stephen Carter and I am your host for the Safe Living Today show. today's conversation is about cell phone risk. How risky is it really to use a cell phone? Are there ways we can mitigate that risk if in fact, risk is present? Our first stop on today's discussion is the National Cancer Institute, which is part of NIH or National Institutes of Health Looking at their about cancer section. Here is a question:Why is there concern that cell phones may cause cancer or other health problems? Their answer: there are three main reasons why people are concerned that cell phones - also known as mobile or wireless telephones - might have potential to cause certain types of cancer or other health problems. 1. Cellphones admit radio frequency radiation or radio waves, a form of non ionizing radiation from their antennas. Parts of the body nearest to the antenna can absorb this energy, 2. The number of cellphone users has increased rapidly. There were more than 400 million cell phone subscribers in the US in 2017 according to the Cellular Communications and Internet Association. Globally, there are more than 5 billion, users around the world.3. Over time, the number of cell phone calls per day, the length of each call, the amount of time people use, cell phones have increased.The National Cancer Institute page continues with additional information based on studies they reported. There are some studies that show a likelihood of effects from radiation. Are there ways we can protect ourselves and lower the probability we would contract cancer from cell phone use?The Environmental Working Group, which is an organization dedicated to the environment, has a useful infographic that suggests six ways to reduce the risk of cellphone use:1. Use a headset or the phone speaker. According to EWG's, "Guide to Safer Cellphone Use", headsets emit much less radiation than phones. They say you can choose either wired or wireless headsets. My recommendation is to use a wired set of headphones because some wireless headsets emit continuous low level radiation. If you do use wireless earbuds, take them out when they're not in use. You can also of course, simply use the speaker mode on your phone, and that reduces radiation into the brain.2. Hold phone away from your body. Hold the phone away from your ear, away from your body when you're talking. If you are using a headset, don't put the phone in your pocket, or don't clip it to your belt. Put it in your bag, your purse or put it on a nearby surface. Get it away from your body. The amount of radiation absorbed by your head and body decreases as a function of the distance away from the body and the phone. 3. Text more, talk less. Phones use less radiation when sending texts compared to when you are using voice communication. Texting keeps radiation away from your head. Use those text messages and skip phone calls whenever possible. 4. Call when the signal is strong. Check your phone signal strength meter. If that meter is weak, wait to make that call or even better text. Why does this matter? Because research tells us that radiation exposure increases dramatically when cell phone signals are weak.5. Limit children's phone use. Children's brains can absorb twice as much cellphone radiation as those of adults, The Environmental Working Group joins health agencies and at least six countries in recommending limits for children's phone use. Limit their use to emergencies only. 6. Skip the radiation shield. This may seem counter intuitive. However, radiation shield such as antenna caps and the keypad covers reduce the connection quality and they force the phone to transmit with greater energy. That greater energy draw on the phone increases radiation. Remember recommendation number 4? Call when the signal is strong. Using a radiation shield can weaken that signal. For more tips from the Environmental Working Group. Check out their site at https://ewg.org/cellphone-radiation. Links:Our website: http://www.SafeLivingToday.comNIH's National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/cell-phones-fact-sheetEnvironmental Working Group's, "EWG's Guide to Safer Cell Phone Use": http://bit.ly/2LzVupcIf you found the information in this episode useful I asked you to please share it with loved ones. Share it with friends. Post it to social media. We do want to get the word out that it is vital to stay safe and taking precautions with our cell phone use can help us do exactly that until we again visit and chat This is your host Stephen Carter for the Safe Living Today show asking you to please be well, be safe, and be blessed.

Show Notes - How to Protect Against Cell Phone Created Cancer RiskComments or questions: Email safelivingtoday@gmail.comThis episode of safe living today we are going to answer the question is there cancer risk when using your cell phone? And, if so, is there anything we can do to reduce that risk? Hello, this is Stephen Carter and I am your host for the Safe Living Today show. today's conversation is about cell phone risk. How risky is it really to use a cell phone? Are there ways we can mitigate that risk if in fact, risk is present? Our first stop on today's discussion is the National Cancer Institute, which is part of NIH or National Institutes of Health Looking at their about cancer section. Here is a question:Why is there concern that cell phones may cause cancer or other health problems? Their answer: there are three main reasons why people are concerned that cell phones - also known as mobile or wireless telephones - might have potential to cause certain types of cancer or other health problems. 1. Cellphones admit radio frequency radiation or radio waves, a form of non ionizing radiation from their antennas. Parts of the body nearest to the antenna can absorb this energy, 2. The number of cellphone users has increased rapidly. There were more than 400 million cell phone subscribers in the US in 2017 according to the Cellular Communications and Internet Association. Globally, there are more than 5 billion, users around the world.3. Over time, the number of cell phone calls per day, the length of each call, the amount of time people use, cell phones have increased.The National Cancer Institute page continues with additional information based on studies they reported. There are some studies that show a likelihood of effects from radiation. Are there ways we can protect ourselves and lower the probability we would contract cancer from cell phone use?The Environmental Working Group, which is an organization dedicated to the environment, has a useful infographic that suggests six ways to reduce the risk of cellphone use:1. Use a headset or the phone speaker. According to EWG's, "Guide to Safer Cellphone Use", headsets emit much less radiation than phones. They say you can choose either wired or wireless headsets. My recommendation is to use a wired set of headphones because some wireless headsets emit continuous low level radiation. If you do use wireless earbuds, take them out when they're not in use. You can also of course, simply use the speaker mode on your phone, and that reduces radiation into the brain.2. Hold phone away from your body. Hold the phone away from your ear, away from your body when you're talking. If you are using a headset, don't put the phone in your pocket, or don't clip it to your belt. Put it in your bag, your purse or put it on a nearby surface. Get it away from your body. The amount of radiation absorbed by your head and body decreases as a function of the distance away from the body and the phone. 3. Text more, talk less. Phones use less radiation when sending texts compared to when you are using voice communication. Texting keeps radiation away from your head. Use those text messages and skip phone calls whenever possible. 4. Call when the signal is strong. Check your phone signal strength meter. If that meter is weak, wait to make that call or even better text. Why does this matter? Because research tells us that radiation exposure increases dramatically when cell phone signals are weak.5. Limit children's phone use. Children's brains can absorb twice as much cellphone radiation as those of adults, The Environmental Working Group joins health agencies and at least six countries in recommending limits for children's phone use. Limit their use to emergencies only. 6. Skip the radiation shield. This may seem counter intuitive. However, radiation shield such as antenna caps and the keypad covers reduce the connection quality and they force the phone to transmit with greater energy. That greater energy draw on the phone increases radiation. Remember recommendation number 4? Call when the signal is strong. Using a radiation shield can weaken that signal. For more tips from the Environmental Working Group. Check out their site at https://ewg.org/cellphone-radiation. Links:Our website: http://www.SafeLivingToday.comNIH's National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/cell-phones-fact-sheetEnvironmental Working Group's, "EWG's Guide to Safer Cell Phone Use": http://bit.ly/2LzVupcIf you found the information in this episode useful I asked you to please share it with loved ones. Share it with friends. Post it to social media. We do want to get the word out that it is vital to stay safe and taking precautions with our cell phone use can help us do exactly that until we again visit and chat This is your host Stephen Carter for the Safe Living Today show asking you to please be well, be safe, and be blessed.

What fuels sexual violence? Let’s begin by looking at high school males. According to a study led by researchers from the School of Public Health, Georgia State University, nearly one in five, about 20%, of male freshmen admitted to committing one or more acts of sexual violence prior to entering college. These 20% of male students reported frequent use of sexually explicit media, binge drinking, and strong masculine beliefs. They tended to associate with friends who had similar behavior patterns and beliefs about sexual violence through their high school years. On the positive side, the study found young men with knowledge of what constitutes consent and who had a strong sense of family were less likely to commit sexual violence before entering college. The study involved 1,133 male freshmen between 18 and 24 years of age. Thirty different four-year colleges across Georgia participated in the study. The research timeframe included the fall semester of 2013, and the spring and fall 2014 semesters. Implications of Study Federal law requires universities and colleges receiving government student aid to provide sexual violence prevention programs.  As the study notes: However, these policies do not take into consideration that many college freshmen already may have engaged in sexual violence before matriculation,", the researchers said. "For these policies and programming to be effective, more tailored prevention efforts, which incorporate assessments of incoming freshmen's precollege sexual violence experiences along with associated risk and protective behaviors and attitudes, are needed." Action Needed to Help Stop Sexual Violence While the call for, “…assessments of incoming freshmen’s precollege sexual violence experiences…”is laudable, how many male high school students are going to put on their application, “I committed sexual violence” or admit to that behavior during conversations with college representatives?  I suggest a society-wide comprehensive approach that creates sexual abuse prevention and human kindness programs in high schools and middle schools. These middle and high school programs could focus on why it's vital to treat others with dignity and respect. Both male and female students would benefit from programs emphasizing respect based beliefs, behaviors, and boundaries that support the best interests and future wellbeing of students through high school, college, and onward through their adult lifetimes.  Where to Begin The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers a good resource that can help schools, communities, and organizations establish effective prevention programs.  You’ll find, “Stop SV: a Technical Package to Prevent Sexual Violence”, by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/SV-Prevention-Technical-Package.pdf. Download the CDC resource and use it to support conversations and actions in your community. You can truly make a difference by helping to stop sexual violence and creating a supportive, kind community of respect. FREA is Here to Help Here at FREA, we are happy to consult with those who would like to include self-care techniques as part of prevention and recovery programs. You can reach us through the, “Contact” menu tab on our website at www.FREA.support. Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Safe Living Today Podcast: http://SafeLivingToday.com | Email: SaleLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" Internet radio show and podcast. References and resources for this post: “Porn, alcohol, peers linked to sexual assault by male college freshmen”; https://medicalxpress.com/news/2018-06-porn-alcohol-peers-linked-sexual.html#nRlv. Laura F. Salazar et al. Precollege Sexual Violence Perpetration and Associated Risk and Protective Factors Among Male College Freshmen in Georgia, Journal of Adolescent Health (2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2017.09.028 Sexual Violence: Prevention Strategies; Centers for Disease Control; https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/prevention.html

What fuels sexual violence? Let’s begin by looking at high school males. According to a study led by researchers from the School of Public Health, Georgia State University, nearly one in five, about 20%, of male freshmen admitted to committing one or more acts of sexual violence prior to entering college. These 20% of male students reported frequent use of sexually explicit media, binge drinking, and strong masculine beliefs. They tended to associate with friends who had similar behavior patterns and beliefs about sexual violence through their high school years. On the positive side, the study found young men with knowledge of what constitutes consent and who had a strong sense of family were less likely to commit sexual violence before entering college. The study involved 1,133 male freshmen between 18 and 24 years of age. Thirty different four-year colleges across Georgia participated in the study. The research timeframe included the fall semester of 2013, and the spring and fall 2014 semesters. Implications of Study Federal law requires universities and colleges receiving government student aid to provide sexual violence prevention programs.  As the study notes: However, these policies do not take into consideration that many college freshmen already may have engaged in sexual violence before matriculation,", the researchers said. "For these policies and programming to be effective, more tailored prevention efforts, which incorporate assessments of incoming freshmen's precollege sexual violence experiences along with associated risk and protective behaviors and attitudes, are needed." Action Needed to Help Stop Sexual Violence While the call for, “…assessments of incoming freshmen’s precollege sexual violence experiences…”is laudable, how many male high school students are going to put on their application, “I committed sexual violence” or admit to that behavior during conversations with college representatives?  I suggest a society-wide comprehensive approach that creates sexual abuse prevention and human kindness programs in high schools and middle schools. These middle and high school programs could focus on why it's vital to treat others with dignity and respect. Both male and female students would benefit from programs emphasizing respect based beliefs, behaviors, and boundaries that support the best interests and future wellbeing of students through high school, college, and onward through their adult lifetimes.  Where to Begin The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers a good resource that can help schools, communities, and organizations establish effective prevention programs.  You’ll find, “Stop SV: a Technical Package to Prevent Sexual Violence”, by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/SV-Prevention-Technical-Package.pdf. Download the CDC resource and use it to support conversations and actions in your community. You can truly make a difference by helping to stop sexual violence and creating a supportive, kind community of respect. FREA is Here to Help Here at FREA, we are happy to consult with those who would like to include self-care techniques as part of prevention and recovery programs. You can reach us through the, “Contact” menu tab on our website at www.FREA.support. Stephen Carter Stress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Safe Living Today Podcast: http://SafeLivingToday.com | Email: SaleLivingToday@gmail.com Stephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" Internet radio show and podcast. References and resources for this post: “Porn, alcohol, peers linked to sexual assault by male college freshmen”; https://medicalxpress.com/news/2018-06-porn-alcohol-peers-linked-sexual.html#nRlv. Laura F. Salazar et al. Precollege Sexual Violence Perpetration and Associated Risk and Protective Factors Among Male College Freshmen in Georgia, Journal of Adolescent Health (2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2017.09.028 Sexual Violence: Prevention Strategies; Centers for Disease Control; https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/prevention.html

How to Stay Injury and Fire Free Over the HolidaysThere are about 200 decorating related injuries each day during the holiday season. Each year there are about 100 Christmas Tree fires resulting in about 10 deaths and $12 million in property loss.On December 6, 2018 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) held a joint event to promote consumer safety during the holiday season.The CPSC reported emergency room departments treated about 18,400 holiday decorating injuries between November 2017 and January 2018. Thirty-eight percent of those injuries involved falls with the remainder percentage involving lacerations, sprains, and other injuries. Two people died as a result of falls from ladders.Key Safety Recommendations:Trees and Decorations:- If you buy a cut Christmas tree, check for freshness.- If you buy an artificial tree, ensure it’s labeled “Fire Resistant”. - Place trees at a distance from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents, and radiators.- If children are in your home, avoid sharp or breakable decorations. Keep trimmings with small parts out of children’s reach.Candles:- If you decorate with candles, always keep then in sight. If you leave the area where candles are burning, extinguish them.- If children or pets are present, consider what additional safety measures are needed.- Place candles on stable, heat resistant surfaces away from trees, curtains, furniture, and flammable decorations.Lights:- Use only U.L or other nationally recognized laboratory tested and approved lights.- Hand check each light set. Dispose of unsafe lights new or old.- Don’t use electric lights on metallic trees or objects.- Use only U.L. tested extension cords rated for the intended purpose. Inspect for safety.- If you’re using outdoor lights, inspect them for safety. Ensure they are outdoor rated.Fireplaces:- Avoid putting wrapping paper in fireplaces. Doing so can result in sudden ignition risking burns and fires outside the fireplace.Smoke Alarms- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed on every floor and in every bedroom. Smoke and C02 alarms save lives. - Test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries at least once annually.Visit our Safe Living Today show website at http://SafeLivingToday.com to subscribe and listen to other episodes.Resource for This Episode:“CPSC and NIST Team Up to Demonstrate Holiday Decorating Hazards”https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2019/CPSC-and-NIST-Team-Up-to-Demonstrate-Holiday-Decorating-Hazards

How to Stay Injury and Fire Free Over the HolidaysThere are about 200 decorating related injuries each day during the holiday season. Each year there are about 100 Christmas Tree fires resulting in about 10 deaths and $12 million in property loss.On December 6, 2018 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) held a joint event to promote consumer safety during the holiday season.The CPSC reported emergency room departments treated about 18,400 holiday decorating injuries between November 2017 and January 2018. Thirty-eight percent of those injuries involved falls with the remainder percentage involving lacerations, sprains, and other injuries. Two people died as a result of falls from ladders.Key Safety Recommendations:Trees and Decorations:- If you buy a cut Christmas tree, check for freshness.- If you buy an artificial tree, ensure it’s labeled “Fire Resistant”. - Place trees at a distance from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents, and radiators.- If children are in your home, avoid sharp or breakable decorations. Keep trimmings with small parts out of children’s reach.Candles:- If you decorate with candles, always keep then in sight. If you leave the area where candles are burning, extinguish them.- If children or pets are present, consider what additional safety measures are needed.- Place candles on stable, heat resistant surfaces away from trees, curtains, furniture, and flammable decorations.Lights:- Use only U.L or other nationally recognized laboratory tested and approved lights.- Hand check each light set. Dispose of unsafe lights new or old.- Don’t use electric lights on metallic trees or objects.- Use only U.L. tested extension cords rated for the intended purpose. Inspect for safety.- If you’re using outdoor lights, inspect them for safety. Ensure they are outdoor rated.Fireplaces:- Avoid putting wrapping paper in fireplaces. Doing so can result in sudden ignition risking burns and fires outside the fireplace.Smoke Alarms- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed on every floor and in every bedroom. Smoke and C02 alarms save lives. - Test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries at least once annually.Visit our Safe Living Today show website at http://SafeLivingToday.com to subscribe and listen to other episodes.Resource for This Episode:“CPSC and NIST Team Up to Demonstrate Holiday Decorating Hazards”https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2019/CPSC-and-NIST-Team-Up-to-Demonstrate-Holiday-Decorating-Hazards

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The scourge of domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, or IPV, is a world-wide problem. Abusers can be found among the rich, poor, and middle class. Abusers can be teenagers or in their 90s. Abuse is an equal opportunity crime committed by people who are black, white, latino, and from all other ethnic groups.What is Domestic Abuse / Intimate Partner Violence?The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers a simple and useful definition*:"Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship."These behaviors can include physical harm, creating fear, restricting a partner from doing what they choose, or forcing a partner to behave in ways they otherwise would reject. Examples of abuse are physical violence, threats and intimidation, sexual abuse, inflicting emotional pain, and financial deprivation. Any one of these acts is abusive.How Prevalent is Domestic Abuse / IPV?Here are a few sobering statistics provided by the National Domestic Violence Hotline**:On average, 24 people per minute experience rape, physical violence or stalking by in intimate partner in the U.S. That’s more than 12 million women and men a year.Approximately 25% of women and 14% of men 18 years old and older in the U.S. have been a victim of severe physical violence by a partner in their lifetime.More than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.Nearly half of all women and men in the U.S. have experience psychological aggression by a partner in their lifetime.Most female victims of intimate partner violence were previously victimized by the same offender, including 77% of women ages 18 to 24,, 76% of females ages 24 to 34, and 81% of women ages 35 to 49.Patterns of AbuseSadly, the statistics make clear abusive behavior typically gets worse over time. Some abusers will show contrition after a violent act, but that contrition is generally short lived. One common pattern is for an abuser to voice an apology, but then add something like,“If only you wouldn’t do “X”, I wouldn’t be triggered.” This tactic is designed to have the victim assume responsibility for the abuser’s behavior. Typically, it won’t be long before the abuser again acts out.Alcohol, drugs, financial or other stress, and an abuser’s own history of being an abuse victim can all play a roll. Regardless of the reasons, victims need to understand that once a pattern of physical and emotional abuse is in place, it’s not likely to stop until the victimized partner takes action to make it stop.Get HelpIf you or a loved one is experiencing domestic / intimate partner abuse help is available:First, if you are using your family computer or a cell phone that your partner has access to, make sure there is no tracking software on the device. Use a library computer or a friend’s phone or computer to search for help.If you are assaulted, call police. In most states in the U.S., if there is any evidence of assault, police must arrest the suspected offender.In the U.S., call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or (TTY) 1-800-787-3224. The website is https://www.thehotline.org/. You can talk by phone or through online chat to get information with a trained, caring helper.Search online for domestic abuse resources in your community. There may be temporary housing and / or counseling available at a domestic abuse shelter.If you do move out, limit the number of people who know where you are to those with an absolute need to know. Some abusers are smooth talkers and can convince friends or family members to tell them where you are.If an abuser is charged either by police or through you obtaining a warrant, show up to trial and testify. An abuser will voice deep sorrow and contrition in an attempt to get you to not testify. Don’t fall for the lie. Testify. Your life may depend on it.Emotional First AidThe emotional trauma from domestic / intimate partner violence can be deep and long-lasting. Applying the Emotional First Aid techniques available on our FREA website is a great place to start the recovery process. Please explore the written and video demonstrated techniques under the various tabs on the FREA site. You’ll find the FREA website at https://www.FREA.support.Stephen CarterStress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Safe Living Today Podcast: http://SafeLivingToday.comStephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" Internet radio show and podcast.* Definition and Warning Signs: https://www.thehotline.org/is-this-abuse/abuse-defined/** https://www.thehotline.org/resources/statistics/

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The scourge of domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, or IPV, is a world-wide problem. Abusers can be found among the rich, poor, and middle class. Abusers can be teenagers or in their 90s. Abuse is an equal opportunity crime committed by people who are black, white, latino, and from all other ethnic groups.What is Domestic Abuse / Intimate Partner Violence?The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers a simple and useful definition*:"Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship."These behaviors can include physical harm, creating fear, restricting a partner from doing what they choose, or forcing a partner to behave in ways they otherwise would reject. Examples of abuse are physical violence, threats and intimidation, sexual abuse, inflicting emotional pain, and financial deprivation. Any one of these acts is abusive.How Prevalent is Domestic Abuse / IPV?Here are a few sobering statistics provided by the National Domestic Violence Hotline**:On average, 24 people per minute experience rape, physical violence or stalking by in intimate partner in the U.S. That’s more than 12 million women and men a year.Approximately 25% of women and 14% of men 18 years old and older in the U.S. have been a victim of severe physical violence by a partner in their lifetime.More than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.Nearly half of all women and men in the U.S. have experience psychological aggression by a partner in their lifetime.Most female victims of intimate partner violence were previously victimized by the same offender, including 77% of women ages 18 to 24,, 76% of females ages 24 to 34, and 81% of women ages 35 to 49.Patterns of AbuseSadly, the statistics make clear abusive behavior typically gets worse over time. Some abusers will show contrition after a violent act, but that contrition is generally short lived. One common pattern is for an abuser to voice an apology, but then add something like,“If only you wouldn’t do “X”, I wouldn’t be triggered.” This tactic is designed to have the victim assume responsibility for the abuser’s behavior. Typically, it won’t be long before the abuser again acts out.Alcohol, drugs, financial or other stress, and an abuser’s own history of being an abuse victim can all play a roll. Regardless of the reasons, victims need to understand that once a pattern of physical and emotional abuse is in place, it’s not likely to stop until the victimized partner takes action to make it stop.Get HelpIf you or a loved one is experiencing domestic / intimate partner abuse help is available:First, if you are using your family computer or a cell phone that your partner has access to, make sure there is no tracking software on the device. Use a library computer or a friend’s phone or computer to search for help.If you are assaulted, call police. In most states in the U.S., if there is any evidence of assault, police must arrest the suspected offender.In the U.S., call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or (TTY) 1-800-787-3224. The website is https://www.thehotline.org/. You can talk by phone or through online chat to get information with a trained, caring helper.Search online for domestic abuse resources in your community. There may be temporary housing and / or counseling available at a domestic abuse shelter.If you do move out, limit the number of people who know where you are to those with an absolute need to know. Some abusers are smooth talkers and can convince friends or family members to tell them where you are.If an abuser is charged either by police or through you obtaining a warrant, show up to trial and testify. An abuser will voice deep sorrow and contrition in an attempt to get you to not testify. Don’t fall for the lie. Testify. Your life may depend on it.Emotional First AidThe emotional trauma from domestic / intimate partner violence can be deep and long-lasting. Applying the Emotional First Aid techniques available on our FREA website is a great place to start the recovery process. Please explore the written and video demonstrated techniques under the various tabs on the FREA site. You’ll find the FREA website at https://www.FREA.support.Stephen CarterStress Solutions, LLC | www.EFT-MD.com | Safe Living Today Podcast: http://SafeLivingToday.comStephen Carter is a former Chief of Police, Corporate Security Director and safely leader for one of the world's largest financial services companies. He is now the CEO of Stress Solutions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people enhance physical and emotional wellbeing through stress mastery using mind-body methods. He is the host of the, "Safe Living Today" Internet radio show and podcast.* Definition and Warning Signs: https://www.thehotline.org/is-this-abuse/abuse-defined/** https://www.thehotline.org/resources/statistics/

Reports of sexual assault on airplanes are growing. Fortunately, law enforcement authorities are aware of this increasing risk and want to stop it. You'll learn about this growing problem and what to do if you are faced with protecting yourself at 30,000 feet.You'll also learn about a growing phone scam risk where callers pretend to be law enforcement officials. This scam has victimized thousands of people and needs to be stopped. The U.S. Marshal's Service and FBI are asking your help by reporting these criminals if you are called. You'll learn how to report these cases along with what exactly these fraudsters will say to you.Finally, you'll discover why it's vital to take action that protects your Internet router from a Russian malware attack. For more information about the malware attack and what to do, see https://finance.yahoo.com/news/russian-router-malware-just-got-203402042.html.For more details about this episode, visit our website at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.

Reports of sexual assault on airplanes are growing. Fortunately, law enforcement authorities are aware of this increasing risk and want to stop it. You'll learn about this growing problem and what to do if you are faced with protecting yourself at 30,000 feet.You'll also learn about a growing phone scam risk where callers pretend to be law enforcement officials. This scam has victimized thousands of people and needs to be stopped. The U.S. Marshal's Service and FBI are asking your help by reporting these criminals if you are called. You'll learn how to report these cases along with what exactly these fraudsters will say to you.Finally, you'll discover why it's vital to take action that protects your Internet router from a Russian malware attack. For more information about the malware attack and what to do, see https://finance.yahoo.com/news/russian-router-malware-just-got-203402042.html.For more details about this episode, visit our website at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.

What to Do if Your Young One Goes Missing - And How to Ensure They Don’tWelcome to episode 16 of the Safe Living Today Show. This is your host Stephen Carter, former Chief of Police and Corporate Security Director for one of the world’s largest financial services company. The purpose of this podcast is to share with you the tools, tips, and methods for you and your loved ones to stay safe in your home, online, and when you’re out and about in the world.This episode is about keeping children and teens safe and what to do if a young one goes missing.“Time Magazine” reported the the body of a 16-year-old girl from Alexandria, Virginia was discovered 2-weeks after she walked out of her home after receiving a text message from an unknown person. Later that evening, Jholie Moussa sent a text message to her twin sister she was attending a party in Norfolk, Virginia, which is 200 miles away. There is no evidence that she in fact attended a party in Norfolk. Her body was found in a park close to her home.Because runaway cases are so common, police originally believed Jholie wasn’t in imminent danger. Why? Because she left home on her own accord.This sad case points to the risk children and teens face when they act impulsively, trust the wrong person, or choose to run-a-way from home. How many young people go missing? There’s no firm number, but depending on the various sources who track this information reported disappearances run between 400,000 to 800,000 a year. Each one of these missing children is a living, breathing, human being who deserves to be reunited with his or her’s family.Let’s look at two parts of the problem.What steps can parents, grandparents, and other family members take to help ensure a young person doesn’t put herself or himself in a dangerous position?First, talk to young people about the risks they face online. Predators are working social media sites 24 X 7. They usually assume false identities and gain the trust of adolescents - male and female - with the intent of separating the young person from their family. Through smooth online and later phone or video conversations, the young person is lured into meeting the predator. Once that happens, that young person may be given drugs, encouraged to engage in sex, and - in many cases - outright kidnapped. That young person may taken to another city and forced into prostitution. In virtually every case, the victim is told if they try to contact their parents, the parents will be murdered. After a few weeks or months, that young person may be murdered if they’re not “producing” for the human traffickers. Second, monitor your child’s activity online. This can prove challenging if they’re using SnapChat or some of the other applications where messages disappear after a short period. Check to see if these types of applications are on your child’s phone. Consider using parental controls for ‘tweens and young teens to ensure you know what applications they’re using and what they’re doing online.Third, know who your child is spending time with in the physical world. Are they going to the mall? Who will they be with? Drive them to and from the mall and other destinations. Talk to your child about their friends and what kinds of conversations occur with their friends.Engage with your kids daily in a loving, caring way. Listen, learn, and guide. In some rare cases, you may have to take action to protect your child he or she won’t like. Do it anyway. Be a parent, not a friend. Be kind and open, but remember your child needs loving guidance, not unfettered freedom to engage in dangerous activity that can get them in serious trouble or even killed.You’ll find a great resource for facts and conversation starters by going to http://GirlsHealth.gov and selecting the “Relationship” tap. I’ll have this site linked up in the show notes of this episode at our http://SafeLivingToday.com site. The information at the http://GirlsHealth.gov site is valuable for young females and males. Boys face the same risks as girls, including sexual abuse and kidnapping.Let’s turn our attention to the second major part of the problem.What do you do if a child goes missing to increase the probability that the child will be found safe and sound.The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is a non-profit organization focused on helping find missing children, reduce child sexual exploitation, and prevent child victimization.They offer guidance on what actions to take immediately. I’ve also added to their list. Actions include:• Immediately call your local law enforcement agency.• When you call the law enforcement agency, report all of the details including:• Your child’s full name, date of birth, height, weight, color of hair and eyes.• Description of last known clothing worn, any scars or unusual marks, description of glasses if your child wears them, any needed medication, medical conditions, and type of braces if worn.• When your child went missing, list of friends with phone numbers if known, details about any previous disappearances, details about any recent family arguments, and any other information that is relevant to the child’s disappearance.• Provide one or more recent photographs. If your child was fingerprinted through one of the child protection programs, provide those prints to law enforcement officials.• Ask the law enforcement agency to enter your child’s information into what’s called NCIC. The agency will know what the national database is.The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children also offers guidance as to what to search in and around your home or location where the child went missing, how to handle a missing child situation in a store, and other vital guidance.Go to their website at http://www.MissingKids.com, that’s www.MissingKids.com. I’ll have this and other resources linked up on the show notes for this episode at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.In summary, • Young people are at risk for predators on the Internet and in the physical world. • Talk with your kids frequently about those risks, monitor their online activities, and know who they’re spending time with. Be loving and kind, but be firm.• Be a parent, not a buddy. They need boundaries. When you provide those boundaries, they know you care and you love them. • Bad things can happen to good people including your child. Do all you can to keep your loved ones safe.• If your child goes missing, call law enforcement immediately. Have all of the items listed earlier available to give to law enforcement.• Know what to do if your child goes missing in a store or other location. Visit the website at http://www.MissingKids.com for downloadable guides to keep handy and other important, potentially life saving information.There is a lot of information in this podcast, too much to remember. Please visit our Safe Living Today website to get show notes about everything we’ve covered and the links to the resources mentioned during the show. You can also subscribe to the show so you’ll never miss a potentially life saving episode. Visit us at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next show, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to stay safe, stay well, and stay blessed.

What to Do if Your Young One Goes Missing - And How to Ensure They Don’tWelcome to episode 16 of the Safe Living Today Show. This is your host Stephen Carter, former Chief of Police and Corporate Security Director for one of the world’s largest financial services company. The purpose of this podcast is to share with you the tools, tips, and methods for you and your loved ones to stay safe in your home, online, and when you’re out and about in the world.This episode is about keeping children and teens safe and what to do if a young one goes missing.“Time Magazine” reported the the body of a 16-year-old girl from Alexandria, Virginia was discovered 2-weeks after she walked out of her home after receiving a text message from an unknown person. Later that evening, Jholie Moussa sent a text message to her twin sister she was attending a party in Norfolk, Virginia, which is 200 miles away. There is no evidence that she in fact attended a party in Norfolk. Her body was found in a park close to her home.Because runaway cases are so common, police originally believed Jholie wasn’t in imminent danger. Why? Because she left home on her own accord.This sad case points to the risk children and teens face when they act impulsively, trust the wrong person, or choose to run-a-way from home. How many young people go missing? There’s no firm number, but depending on the various sources who track this information reported disappearances run between 400,000 to 800,000 a year. Each one of these missing children is a living, breathing, human being who deserves to be reunited with his or her’s family.Let’s look at two parts of the problem.What steps can parents, grandparents, and other family members take to help ensure a young person doesn’t put herself or himself in a dangerous position?First, talk to young people about the risks they face online. Predators are working social media sites 24 X 7. They usually assume false identities and gain the trust of adolescents - male and female - with the intent of separating the young person from their family. Through smooth online and later phone or video conversations, the young person is lured into meeting the predator. Once that happens, that young person may be given drugs, encouraged to engage in sex, and - in many cases - outright kidnapped. That young person may taken to another city and forced into prostitution. In virtually every case, the victim is told if they try to contact their parents, the parents will be murdered. After a few weeks or months, that young person may be murdered if they’re not “producing” for the human traffickers. Second, monitor your child’s activity online. This can prove challenging if they’re using SnapChat or some of the other applications where messages disappear after a short period. Check to see if these types of applications are on your child’s phone. Consider using parental controls for ‘tweens and young teens to ensure you know what applications they’re using and what they’re doing online.Third, know who your child is spending time with in the physical world. Are they going to the mall? Who will they be with? Drive them to and from the mall and other destinations. Talk to your child about their friends and what kinds of conversations occur with their friends.Engage with your kids daily in a loving, caring way. Listen, learn, and guide. In some rare cases, you may have to take action to protect your child he or she won’t like. Do it anyway. Be a parent, not a friend. Be kind and open, but remember your child needs loving guidance, not unfettered freedom to engage in dangerous activity that can get them in serious trouble or even killed.You’ll find a great resource for facts and conversation starters by going to http://GirlsHealth.gov and selecting the “Relationship” tap. I’ll have this site linked up in the show notes of this episode at our http://SafeLivingToday.com site. The information at the http://GirlsHealth.gov site is valuable for young females and males. Boys face the same risks as girls, including sexual abuse and kidnapping.Let’s turn our attention to the second major part of the problem.What do you do if a child goes missing to increase the probability that the child will be found safe and sound.The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is a non-profit organization focused on helping find missing children, reduce child sexual exploitation, and prevent child victimization.They offer guidance on what actions to take immediately. I’ve also added to their list. Actions include:• Immediately call your local law enforcement agency.• When you call the law enforcement agency, report all of the details including:• Your child’s full name, date of birth, height, weight, color of hair and eyes.• Description of last known clothing worn, any scars or unusual marks, description of glasses if your child wears them, any needed medication, medical conditions, and type of braces if worn.• When your child went missing, list of friends with phone numbers if known, details about any previous disappearances, details about any recent family arguments, and any other information that is relevant to the child’s disappearance.• Provide one or more recent photographs. If your child was fingerprinted through one of the child protection programs, provide those prints to law enforcement officials.• Ask the law enforcement agency to enter your child’s information into what’s called NCIC. The agency will know what the national database is.The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children also offers guidance as to what to search in and around your home or location where the child went missing, how to handle a missing child situation in a store, and other vital guidance.Go to their website at http://www.MissingKids.com, that’s www.MissingKids.com. I’ll have this and other resources linked up on the show notes for this episode at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.In summary, • Young people are at risk for predators on the Internet and in the physical world. • Talk with your kids frequently about those risks, monitor their online activities, and know who they’re spending time with. Be loving and kind, but be firm.• Be a parent, not a buddy. They need boundaries. When you provide those boundaries, they know you care and you love them. • Bad things can happen to good people including your child. Do all you can to keep your loved ones safe.• If your child goes missing, call law enforcement immediately. Have all of the items listed earlier available to give to law enforcement.• Know what to do if your child goes missing in a store or other location. Visit the website at http://www.MissingKids.com for downloadable guides to keep handy and other important, potentially life saving information.There is a lot of information in this podcast, too much to remember. Please visit our Safe Living Today website to get show notes about everything we’ve covered and the links to the resources mentioned during the show. You can also subscribe to the show so you’ll never miss a potentially life saving episode. Visit us at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com.Until our next show, this is your host Stephen Carter asking you to stay safe, stay well, and stay blessed.

Stop Package Theft From Your Doorstep! - Don’t be a Victim of the Porch Pirate GrinchDon't Let the Porch Pirate Grinch Ruin Your ChristmasIf you buy gifts online and have them shipped to you, you run the risk of having those gifts stolen right off of your front porch by criminals known as porch pirates. Estimates are 23 million people have been victims. I want to ensure you are not one of the many people who will have packages stolen this holiday season.Here are 6 ways to protect against this common crime.First, the new Amazon Key service. This is a recently announced delivery option by Amazon. Amazon customers buy a lock and video camera system at a cost starting about $250. Once installed and activated, Amazon delivery representatives can unlock your door and leave packages inside your home. The door re-locks after the delivery rep leaves.There is one small problem: this brand new system was hacked several days after it was launched. Amazon sent a patch, but according to reports not all home systems were properly updated.My advice: run away from this service and run very, very fast and far. Due to the multiple risks inherent is this type of system, I cannot recommend the Amazon Key service.Option 2, Amazon’s Locker Service. One Amazon service I whole heartedly recommend is their Locker Service. Amazon has installed secured lockers in more than 2,000 locations such as 7-11’s, Whole Foods, Safeways, and other retailers.When you make a purchase from Amazon, you can designate one of the locker locations as your “ship to” address. You’ll receive a notification from Amazon letting you know the package has arrived at the locker. You simply go to the locker location and enter the access code you’ll be given by Amazon to retrieve your package. You have 3-days to pick up your package. You can also initiate returns at the same location if that turns out to be necessary. You’ll see a photo of the Amazon Locker kiosk at my local Safeway store in the show notes, available at www.SafeLivingToday.com. A third option is a system called Package Guard. This device is about the size of a Frisbee. Delivery personnel place packages on the Package Guard and you’re instantly notified that the package is waiting. If anyone takes the package before you disarm the Package Guard, an alarm is activated. The Package Guard costs about $90. You’ll find details at the company’s website located at www.thepackageguard.com.A fourth option is to have packages delivered to your workplace. Check with your company to ensure they allow personal package deliveries. If they do, this is a great option.Option five is to require signature verifications for all packages, or for packages that contain expensive items. This can be inconvenient, specially if you’re typically not at home. It does, however, provide an added layer of package protection.Option six is to rent a P.O. box for a few months at the Post Office, a UPS store, or other mail handling service and have packages shipped to the P.O. Box address. Prices will vary, but typically a 3-month rental at a UPS store will cost about $75. Renting a P.O. Box from late November through February can provide a secure delivery location for your holiday packages.Video Cameras:A word about outside video cameras. You’ve probably seen videos of people walking onto someone’s porch, taking a package, and running to a waiting vehicle. Sometimes the image quality of the porch pirate is excellent, sometimes not. While I do recommend video camera installations to capture activity in your yard and at your door, cameras won’t stop a determined criminal from stealing your packages. Video cameras may help identify the criminal, but if a thief’s face is covered the video images could prove useless. The best way to protect your packages is to not have them available on your doorstep.How to Handle Missing Packages:What do you do if you are expecting a package, but when checking the normal home delivery location it doesn’t show up?First, check all doors and the area around your garage to ensure the delivery rep didn’t place the package in an unusual location. UPS and FedEX hire temporary workers during the holiday season and your usual delivery person may not be the one delivering a package.Check with neighbors to ensure the package wasn’t left at the wrong address.If after checking around your home and talking with neighbors, it’s obvious the package is missing, notify the company who shipped the package and confirm their records show the package was delivered. Let the seller know the package is missing and report the theft to your local police. If the package was shipped via the United States Postal Service, notify the postal inspector’s office as well.How about insurance reimbursement for packages stolen from your porch? Depending on your policy, you may be able to file a claim for insurance reimbursement. However, your deductible will probably apply. Check your homeowners policy and call your insurance company if you are thinking of filing an insurance claim for stolen items.But if you choose to employ one of the six methods to keep your delivered packages safe, you won’t need to worry about a Grinch porch pirate stealing your holiday gifts.To summarize those six methods, they are:- Sign up for and use the new Amazon Key Service. I do not recommend this new service, but it is an option.- Use an Amazon Locker near your home as the “ship to” address. I do strongly recommend this service.- Purchase and use the Package Guard product. You’ll find details about this product at www.ThePackageGuard.com.- Have packages delivered to your workplace.- Require signature verification for all packages or packages containing expensive items.- Rent a P.O.Box at the Post Office, UPS Store, or other mail handling service and have packages shipped to the P.O Box address.Choose to employ one of these safe package delivery options, and the Porch Pirate Grinch will not ruin your holidays.Thank you for joining me for this episode. You can get the show notes for this and all of our episodes at www.SafeLivingToday.com. You can also subscribe to the show there as well. You’ll find us on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Subscribe on Android, and on most other podcast listening services. You can reach me with questions or comments at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.As I close this episode, I wish you and yours a happy holiday season. And, as always, I ask you to please… Stay Safe, Stay Well, and Stay Blessed.

Stop Package Theft From Your Doorstep! - Don’t be a Victim of the Porch Pirate GrinchDon't Let the Porch Pirate Grinch Ruin Your ChristmasIf you buy gifts online and have them shipped to you, you run the risk of having those gifts stolen right off of your front porch by criminals known as porch pirates. Estimates are 23 million people have been victims. I want to ensure you are not one of the many people who will have packages stolen this holiday season.Here are 6 ways to protect against this common crime.First, the new Amazon Key service. This is a recently announced delivery option by Amazon. Amazon customers buy a lock and video camera system at a cost starting about $250. Once installed and activated, Amazon delivery representatives can unlock your door and leave packages inside your home. The door re-locks after the delivery rep leaves.There is one small problem: this brand new system was hacked several days after it was launched. Amazon sent a patch, but according to reports not all home systems were properly updated.My advice: run away from this service and run very, very fast and far. Due to the multiple risks inherent is this type of system, I cannot recommend the Amazon Key service.Option 2, Amazon’s Locker Service. One Amazon service I whole heartedly recommend is their Locker Service. Amazon has installed secured lockers in more than 2,000 locations such as 7-11’s, Whole Foods, Safeways, and other retailers.When you make a purchase from Amazon, you can designate one of the locker locations as your “ship to” address. You’ll receive a notification from Amazon letting you know the package has arrived at the locker. You simply go to the locker location and enter the access code you’ll be given by Amazon to retrieve your package. You have 3-days to pick up your package. You can also initiate returns at the same location if that turns out to be necessary. You’ll see a photo of the Amazon Locker kiosk at my local Safeway store in the show notes, available at www.SafeLivingToday.com. A third option is a system called Package Guard. This device is about the size of a Frisbee. Delivery personnel place packages on the Package Guard and you’re instantly notified that the package is waiting. If anyone takes the package before you disarm the Package Guard, an alarm is activated. The Package Guard costs about $90. You’ll find details at the company’s website located at www.thepackageguard.com.A fourth option is to have packages delivered to your workplace. Check with your company to ensure they allow personal package deliveries. If they do, this is a great option.Option five is to require signature verifications for all packages, or for packages that contain expensive items. This can be inconvenient, specially if you’re typically not at home. It does, however, provide an added layer of package protection.Option six is to rent a P.O. box for a few months at the Post Office, a UPS store, or other mail handling service and have packages shipped to the P.O. Box address. Prices will vary, but typically a 3-month rental at a UPS store will cost about $75. Renting a P.O. Box from late November through February can provide a secure delivery location for your holiday packages.Video Cameras:A word about outside video cameras. You’ve probably seen videos of people walking onto someone’s porch, taking a package, and running to a waiting vehicle. Sometimes the image quality of the porch pirate is excellent, sometimes not. While I do recommend video camera installations to capture activity in your yard and at your door, cameras won’t stop a determined criminal from stealing your packages. Video cameras may help identify the criminal, but if a thief’s face is covered the video images could prove useless. The best way to protect your packages is to not have them available on your doorstep.How to Handle Missing Packages:What do you do if you are expecting a package, but when checking the normal home delivery location it doesn’t show up?First, check all doors and the area around your garage to ensure the delivery rep didn’t place the package in an unusual location. UPS and FedEX hire temporary workers during the holiday season and your usual delivery person may not be the one delivering a package.Check with neighbors to ensure the package wasn’t left at the wrong address.If after checking around your home and talking with neighbors, it’s obvious the package is missing, notify the company who shipped the package and confirm their records show the package was delivered. Let the seller know the package is missing and report the theft to your local police. If the package was shipped via the United States Postal Service, notify the postal inspector’s office as well.How about insurance reimbursement for packages stolen from your porch? Depending on your policy, you may be able to file a claim for insurance reimbursement. However, your deductible will probably apply. Check your homeowners policy and call your insurance company if you are thinking of filing an insurance claim for stolen items.But if you choose to employ one of the six methods to keep your delivered packages safe, you won’t need to worry about a Grinch porch pirate stealing your holiday gifts.To summarize those six methods, they are:- Sign up for and use the new Amazon Key Service. I do not recommend this new service, but it is an option.- Use an Amazon Locker near your home as the “ship to” address. I do strongly recommend this service.- Purchase and use the Package Guard product. You’ll find details about this product at www.ThePackageGuard.com.- Have packages delivered to your workplace.- Require signature verification for all packages or packages containing expensive items.- Rent a P.O.Box at the Post Office, UPS Store, or other mail handling service and have packages shipped to the P.O Box address.Choose to employ one of these safe package delivery options, and the Porch Pirate Grinch will not ruin your holidays.Thank you for joining me for this episode. You can get the show notes for this and all of our episodes at www.SafeLivingToday.com. You can also subscribe to the show there as well. You’ll find us on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Subscribe on Android, and on most other podcast listening services. You can reach me with questions or comments at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.As I close this episode, I wish you and yours a happy holiday season. And, as always, I ask you to please… Stay Safe, Stay Well, and Stay Blessed.

In this episode you’ll learn how to stack the survival odds in your favor if you ever find yourself in the middle of a terrorist attack.Who is this podcast for? If you’re keen to keep you and your loved ones safe in your home, online, and when out and about in your world, this podcast is for you. Other episodes and subscription links at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com. Key Points:- On October 31 a self-proclaimed radical Muslim drove a rented truck up a New York City bicycle path with the intent of killing as many people as possible. Specifics about the terrorist and other related info in audio.- The New York City murderous attack follows the mass killing in Las Vegas by an apparently deranged 64-year old man on October 1st. The death toll in that tragedy stands at 59 people with more than 500 other people wounded.- The 2017 terror attack victim count in the U.S. stands at 76 people dead and 577 people injured. This does not include so-called work-place violence killings, murders that are deemed to be non-terrorist related, and the murder of police officers for no reason other than they wore a uniform.- World-wide, as of November 1, we’ve had 1,052 attacks so far in 2017 with 6,595 people killed. - Terrorist attacks and other acts of deadly violence have occurred on public streets, in schools, on college campuses, on military bases, in restaurants, shopping centers, government buildings, hotels, office buildings, in the workplace, and other locations. - Each attack is unique as to location, actors, and circumstances. That said, based on lessons learned from these types of incidents, there are actions you can take to increase your odds of surviving a terror attack.- Put simply, you have three options: Run, Hide, or Fight. Which of those three actions is best depends on the circumstances and where you are physically in relation to the attacker or attackers. - To help you develop a survival mindset, we’ll use the word “ALERT” as an acronym. The letters stand for: Awareness, Lockdown, Engage, Run, and Talk. - “A” stands for Awareness. When you’re Aware, you’re paying attention to your surroundings. You’re noticing the people around you. You’re listening to the sounds in the environment and you’re noticing exit doors or escape routes. Examples and specific guidance about how to stay attentive are presented in the audio podcast episode.- “L” stands for lockdown. Lockdown is the same as sheltering in place. This is typically the best action when you know or suspect there is an active shooter somewhere in a building, but you don’t know where. Specifics of what to do in audio.- “E” stands for Engage, as in Engage the assailant in a physical fight. Typically, this action is taken as a last resort when you believe death or serious injury is imminent and no other viable option exists. Specific instructions for using weapons of opportunity, when - and how - to engage are in the audio podcast episode.- “R” stands for “Run”. As soon as you believe it’s safe, move as quickly as possible away from the attack scene and don’t stop until you’re several blocks away. If you’re wearing high heels, take them off before running. The more distance you put between you and the scene of the attack, the more likely you are to survive.- “T” stands for “Talk”. The first person you want to “Talk” to throughout the attack is yourself. Keep reminding yourself to, “stay calm, stay focused”. Avoid using negatives such as, “don’t panic!”. How to use single word affirmations to stay calm, what to say to police, and what to say to other people described in the audio podcast episode.- Statistically, the probability of being involved in a terrorist attack is small, but growing. Knowing and rehearsing the skills you learn in this podcast will increase your odds of surviving a terrorist attack.More information and citations for stats are available at our website, http://www.SafeLivingToday.com. Contact us at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

In this episode you’ll learn how to stack the survival odds in your favor if you ever find yourself in the middle of a terrorist attack.Who is this podcast for? If you’re keen to keep you and your loved ones safe in your home, online, and when out and about in your world, this podcast is for you. Other episodes and subscription links at http://www.SafeLivingToday.com. Key Points:- On October 31 a self-proclaimed radical Muslim drove a rented truck up a New York City bicycle path with the intent of killing as many people as possible. Specifics about the terrorist and other related info in audio.- The New York City murderous attack follows the mass killing in Las Vegas by an apparently deranged 64-year old man on October 1st. The death toll in that tragedy stands at 59 people with more than 500 other people wounded.- The 2017 terror attack victim count in the U.S. stands at 76 people dead and 577 people injured. This does not include so-called work-place violence killings, murders that are deemed to be non-terrorist related, and the murder of police officers for no reason other than they wore a uniform.- World-wide, as of November 1, we’ve had 1,052 attacks so far in 2017 with 6,595 people killed. - Terrorist attacks and other acts of deadly violence have occurred on public streets, in schools, on college campuses, on military bases, in restaurants, shopping centers, government buildings, hotels, office buildings, in the workplace, and other locations. - Each attack is unique as to location, actors, and circumstances. That said, based on lessons learned from these types of incidents, there are actions you can take to increase your odds of surviving a terror attack.- Put simply, you have three options: Run, Hide, or Fight. Which of those three actions is best depends on the circumstances and where you are physically in relation to the attacker or attackers. - To help you develop a survival mindset, we’ll use the word “ALERT” as an acronym. The letters stand for: Awareness, Lockdown, Engage, Run, and Talk. - “A” stands for Awareness. When you’re Aware, you’re paying attention to your surroundings. You’re noticing the people around you. You’re listening to the sounds in the environment and you’re noticing exit doors or escape routes. Examples and specific guidance about how to stay attentive are presented in the audio podcast episode.- “L” stands for lockdown. Lockdown is the same as sheltering in place. This is typically the best action when you know or suspect there is an active shooter somewhere in a building, but you don’t know where. Specifics of what to do in audio.- “E” stands for Engage, as in Engage the assailant in a physical fight. Typically, this action is taken as a last resort when you believe death or serious injury is imminent and no other viable option exists. Specific instructions for using weapons of opportunity, when - and how - to engage are in the audio podcast episode.- “R” stands for “Run”. As soon as you believe it’s safe, move as quickly as possible away from the attack scene and don’t stop until you’re several blocks away. If you’re wearing high heels, take them off before running. The more distance you put between you and the scene of the attack, the more likely you are to survive.- “T” stands for “Talk”. The first person you want to “Talk” to throughout the attack is yourself. Keep reminding yourself to, “stay calm, stay focused”. Avoid using negatives such as, “don’t panic!”. How to use single word affirmations to stay calm, what to say to police, and what to say to other people described in the audio podcast episode.- Statistically, the probability of being involved in a terrorist attack is small, but growing. Knowing and rehearsing the skills you learn in this podcast will increase your odds of surviving a terrorist attack.More information and citations for stats are available at our website, http://www.SafeLivingToday.com. Contact us at SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

Don’t Be a Craigslist Crime Victim! - How to Buy and Sell Safely: Episode 13 - Show Notes:Who Is the Safe Living Today Podcast For?If you are keen to stay safe in your home, online, and when you’re out and about in your world, this is your show. Host Stephen Carter has more than 40-years experience in law enforcement, as a senior Corporate Security Executive, and a Safety Expert.This, “Don’t Be a Craigslist Crime Victim!" Episode:Have you ever used Craigslist to buy or sell an item? Millions of postings and transactions have occurred on Craigslist. The good news is the vast majority of transactions occur honestly and safely. Sadly, not all transactions are safe and legitimate.Headlines:- “Anne Arundel County Man Charged With Murder in Craigslist Robbery”;- “Glenn Burnie Maryland: A Millersville Man is Arrested in Connection to a Craigslist Robbery and Murder”;- “Baltimore Police Arrest Suspect in Connection With a Sykesville Man Who Came to Baltimore to Sell a Dirt Bike Posted on Craigslist”;- CNN Story: "A South Georgia Man Was Charged With Murder in the Death of a Couple Who Went Missing Last Week After Contacting a Car Seller on Craigslist”;- “Man Charged in Craigslist in West Hartford Sex Assault Makes Multiple Confessions”.In the last case, the suspect claimed, “I just came to get a bike and animalistic instincts kicked in”. Stacking Odds in Your Favor:How can you stack the odds toward safety in your favor when buying or selling on Craigslist?The number one way to ensure your safety in my view is to meet in a public place to transact a sale. The best place is to meet in the lobby of a police station. Howard County Maryland Police Department has a formal program that allows buyers and sellers to meet in the station lobbies. Many other police agencies have similar programs.Actions to help ensure your safety include:- Meet in a public place such as a police station, the lobby of a bank, the food court area of a busy shopping center, a busy coffee shop, or a large store such as a Walmart. People pay little attention to what happens on parking lots, but do pay attention to what happens inside a store.- Avoid meeting on parking lots, in secluded locations, or in private homes unless absolutely necessary to inspect or sell a large item (see additional precautions below).- Use extreme caution when buying or selling items of high value. Ensure you know exactly what you’re buying or selling. Ensure the item is in working order.- Let friends and family know where you’re going and with whom you’re meeting. If possible, take at least one friend or family member with you to witness the transaction.- Both you and anyone who accompanies you should have a cell phone readily available.- Trust your instincts. If there is a tiny voice in the back of your head suggesting something’ is wrong, stop the transaction and take action to assure your safety.- If you’re looking at a large item such as a sofa or washer that requires you to go to the seller’s home, take at least one person with you and preferably two people. One person should accompany you into the residence while the second person waits outside. Everyone should have cell phones at the ready. If you’re selling a large item, have at least one adult with you when a potential buyer is in your residence.- If someone is coming into your home, to the extent possible ensure you have the full name, address, and phone number of the person coming to your home. - If you’re selling an item, take only cash; no checks.- If you’re responding to an ad for a home or apartment rental, be extremely cautious. Scammers will post ads to attract renters to residences they do not own. Listen at time stamp 7 minutes 11 seconds for details about these frauds and how to avoid becoming a victim.Never Miss an Episode:To ensure you never miss an episode of the, “Safe Living Today” show, go to http://SafeLivingToday.com, scroll down to the links to subscribe on iTunes (now Apple Podcasts), subscribe on stitcher.com, or to subscribe on Android. You can also listen to this and prior episodes on YouTube on the http://SafeLivingToday.com website.To email the host, create an email addressed to, SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

Don’t Be a Craigslist Crime Victim! - How to Buy and Sell Safely: Episode 13 - Show Notes:Who Is the Safe Living Today Podcast For?If you are keen to stay safe in your home, online, and when you’re out and about in your world, this is your show. Host Stephen Carter has more than 40-years experience in law enforcement, as a senior Corporate Security Executive, and a Safety Expert.This, “Don’t Be a Craigslist Crime Victim!" Episode:Have you ever used Craigslist to buy or sell an item? Millions of postings and transactions have occurred on Craigslist. The good news is the vast majority of transactions occur honestly and safely. Sadly, not all transactions are safe and legitimate.Headlines:- “Anne Arundel County Man Charged With Murder in Craigslist Robbery”;- “Glenn Burnie Maryland: A Millersville Man is Arrested in Connection to a Craigslist Robbery and Murder”;- “Baltimore Police Arrest Suspect in Connection With a Sykesville Man Who Came to Baltimore to Sell a Dirt Bike Posted on Craigslist”;- CNN Story: "A South Georgia Man Was Charged With Murder in the Death of a Couple Who Went Missing Last Week After Contacting a Car Seller on Craigslist”;- “Man Charged in Craigslist in West Hartford Sex Assault Makes Multiple Confessions”.In the last case, the suspect claimed, “I just came to get a bike and animalistic instincts kicked in”. Stacking Odds in Your Favor:How can you stack the odds toward safety in your favor when buying or selling on Craigslist?The number one way to ensure your safety in my view is to meet in a public place to transact a sale. The best place is to meet in the lobby of a police station. Howard County Maryland Police Department has a formal program that allows buyers and sellers to meet in the station lobbies. Many other police agencies have similar programs.Actions to help ensure your safety include:- Meet in a public place such as a police station, the lobby of a bank, the food court area of a busy shopping center, a busy coffee shop, or a large store such as a Walmart. People pay little attention to what happens on parking lots, but do pay attention to what happens inside a store.- Avoid meeting on parking lots, in secluded locations, or in private homes unless absolutely necessary to inspect or sell a large item (see additional precautions below).- Use extreme caution when buying or selling items of high value. Ensure you know exactly what you’re buying or selling. Ensure the item is in working order.- Let friends and family know where you’re going and with whom you’re meeting. If possible, take at least one friend or family member with you to witness the transaction.- Both you and anyone who accompanies you should have a cell phone readily available.- Trust your instincts. If there is a tiny voice in the back of your head suggesting something’ is wrong, stop the transaction and take action to assure your safety.- If you’re looking at a large item such as a sofa or washer that requires you to go to the seller’s home, take at least one person with you and preferably two people. One person should accompany you into the residence while the second person waits outside. Everyone should have cell phones at the ready. If you’re selling a large item, have at least one adult with you when a potential buyer is in your residence.- If someone is coming into your home, to the extent possible ensure you have the full name, address, and phone number of the person coming to your home. - If you’re selling an item, take only cash; no checks.- If you’re responding to an ad for a home or apartment rental, be extremely cautious. Scammers will post ads to attract renters to residences they do not own. Listen at time stamp 7 minutes 11 seconds for details about these frauds and how to avoid becoming a victim.Never Miss an Episode:To ensure you never miss an episode of the, “Safe Living Today” show, go to http://SafeLivingToday.com, scroll down to the links to subscribe on iTunes (now Apple Podcasts), subscribe on stitcher.com, or to subscribe on Android. You can also listen to this and prior episodes on YouTube on the http://SafeLivingToday.com website.To email the host, create an email addressed to, SafeLivingToday@gmail.com.

Spreaker Live Show #129 for Oct 4th, 2017Show Duration: 64 minutesHost: Rob Greenlee, Head of Content, Spreaker @robgreenlee - rob(at)spreaker(dotcom)Co-Host: Alex Exum, Host of “The Exum Experience Podcast” on SpreakerWe stream LIVE every Weds at 3 Pacific /6pm EST from SpreakerLiveShow.comShow Today:- Top Strategies to Starting a Podcast and Building Long-Term Success - We got two audio comments on from Kyle Wilcox, Host of “The WWS EdTech Sandbox” and a bunch more fresh comments from you this week!On the show today:Top Strategies to Starting a PodcastPart 1: Personal Goals? What Should It Be About? Hobby or Business?Part 2: Research Passion Topics & Other Shows? Your Expertise & Abilities? Part 3: Podcast Recording & Equipment, Editing, Hosting Audio and PublishingPart 4: Podcast Promotion: Launch - Promo Episode, Buildup Expectations of your show. Getting the Word Out Listener Comments about last week’s episode “SLS128: Worried Podcast Advertisers”:Steve Carter who sent us a great Audio comment last week about YouTube Stats: Rob / Alex, Thank you for the clarification on how YouTube plays are counted as part of the Spreaker stats.I'm on the first "pro" level of service which means the listener stats are basic. I'll revisit the CMS stats section again, but at the basic level I don't believe I can see the source of listens.I see the daily bar graph of listens (downloads and plays) and the individual episode downloads and plays. It's not particularly important to me to have more comprehensive stats, at least right now.Thanks also for the kind comments about my voice and website. For now, I'm using a Google Sites website with a redirect from GoDaddy for the http://www.SafeLivingToday.com URL. Depending on whether the podcast gets more traction, I may invest in a more robust site; for now, the present site does what it needs to do at zero cost.Steve CarterPlay Audio Comment: 1:40 sec: Kyle Wilcox, Indiana - leave audio comments: App called Voxer, Speakpipe. Integrate tech: https://www.speakpipe.com/voice-recorderPlay Audio Comment 2 about Live Video Show Tips from Kyle WilcoxTamara Ford (Shelf Addiction)My podcast is 97% clean. A curse word may slip out once in a while from a guest or myself. Not often, I actually sort of cringe a little when it slips out.Linda IrwinI also prefer Skype to Google Hang Outs for video call recording. OBS hates Hang Outs and makes it very laggy, both in video and audio.Spreaker Links:http://Adore.fmhttp://blog.spreaker.comhttp://SpreakerLiveShow.comhttps://Spreaker.comEmail: rob at spreaker.comSend Questions and Comments to:Twitter: http://twitter.com/spreaker using #SpreakerLiveTwitter: http://twitter.com/robgreenleeTwitter: http://twitter.com/alexeum Tech Support: support at spreaker.com

Spreaker Live Show #129 for Oct 4th, 2017Show Duration: 64 minutesHost: Rob Greenlee, Head of Content, Spreaker @robgreenlee - rob(at)spreaker(dotcom)Co-Host: Alex Exum, Host of “The Exum Experience Podcast” on SpreakerWe stream LIVE every Weds at 3 Pacific /6pm EST from SpreakerLiveShow.comShow Today:- Top Strategies to Starting a Podcast and Building Long-Term Success - We got two audio comments on from Kyle Wilcox, Host of “The WWS EdTech Sandbox” and a bunch more fresh comments from you this week!On the show today:Top Strategies to Starting a PodcastPart 1: Personal Goals? What Should It Be About? Hobby or Business?Part 2: Research Passion Topics & Other Shows? Your Expertise & Abilities? Part 3: Podcast Recording & Equipment, Editing, Hosting Audio and PublishingPart 4: Podcast Promotion: Launch - Promo Episode, Buildup Expectations of your show. Getting the Word Out Listener Comments about last week’s episode “SLS128: Worried Podcast Advertisers”:Steve Carter who sent us a great Audio comment last week about YouTube Stats: Rob / Alex, Thank you for the clarification on how YouTube plays are counted as part of the Spreaker stats.I'm on the first "pro" level of service which means the listener stats are basic. I'll revisit the CMS stats section again, but at the basic level I don't believe I can see the source of listens.I see the daily bar graph of listens (downloads and plays) and the individual episode downloads and plays. It's not particularly important to me to have more comprehensive stats, at least right now.Thanks also for the kind comments about my voice and website. For now, I'm using a Google Sites website with a redirect from GoDaddy for the http://www.SafeLivingToday.com URL. Depending on whether the podcast gets more traction, I may invest in a more robust site; for now, the present site does what it needs to do at zero cost.Steve CarterPlay Audio Comment: 1:40 sec: Kyle Wilcox, Indiana - leave audio comments: App called Voxer, Speakpipe. Integrate tech: https://www.speakpipe.com/voice-recorderPlay Audio Comment 2 about Live Video Show Tips from Kyle WilcoxTamara Ford (Shelf Addiction)My podcast is 97% clean. A curse word may slip out once in a while from a guest or myself. Not often, I actually sort of cringe a little when it slips out.Linda IrwinI also prefer Skype to Google Hang Outs for video call recording. OBS hates Hang Outs and makes it very laggy, both in video and audio.Spreaker Links:http://Adore.fmhttp://blog.spreaker.comhttp://SpreakerLiveShow.comhttps://Spreaker.comEmail: rob at spreaker.comSend Questions and Comments to:Twitter: http://twitter.com/spreaker using #SpreakerLiveTwitter: http://twitter.com/robgreenleeTwitter: http://twitter.com/alexeum Tech Support: support at spreaker.com

Spreaker Live Show #128 for Sept 27th, 2017Show Duration: 48 minutesHost: Rob Greenlee, Head of Content, Spreaker @robgreenlee - rob(at)spreaker(dotcom)Co-Host: Alex Exum, Host of “The Exum Experience Podcast” on SpreakerWe stream LIVE every Weds at 3 Pacific /6pm EST from SpreakerLiveShow.comShow Today:- Are company brand safety worries impacting podcastings advertising potential- Spreaker Studio for iOS 11 is out with some changes - We got an audio question from Steve of Safe Living Today ShowOn the show today:- Are company brand safety worries impacting podcastings advertising potentialHost reads by popular hosts are an effective advertising method on podcasts but many marketers are worried about brand safety by being in some podcasts and are failing to maximise their potential.live / host read ads by hosts resonate best with audiences because there is already an in-built trust. They are even more effective if the brand allows the host to inject their own personality into the read.Marketers worried about a lack of control are often choosing safer options of a scripted read by the podcast producer because they are concerned about brand damage if the host says something negative or off color.Advertising on a podcast where the host drops the four-letter words, but the audience won’t be offended because they have chosen to be there. Likely won’t be shocked because that’s what they expect when they tune in for.Truth is the less scripted a live read feels, the better the response. Advertising duration/time should be restricted to three minutes per hour, less than radio or television, as tolerance of interruptive advertising is lower among podcast listeners because it is a more personal medium. - Spreaker Studio iOS 11 Make it Even Easier to Pick your Sounds for your Podcast (http://blog.spreaker.com)Warning: Advise NOT to use Major Label Music in your Podcast, Epidemic Sound Subscription Option or music you make Music libraries are increasingly becoming more like dispersed pockets of musical treasure: some tracks tucked away in folders on your device, some songs just stored on iCloud, some tracks shared with you through Dropbox. So when you’re uploading music to your podcast, you want to easily be able to tap into your library, however spread out it may be!That’s what our podcasting community has shared with us and we want podcasting reflect the way that you work best. Recording and editing your content with Spreaker Studio on your iPhone or iPad gives you the mobility to podcast on the go, and now with the new iOS update you can directly insert media files that you have on your device, both locally and in the cloud, without needing to shuffle them around into a single folder first.In Spreaker Studio, go to the recording page and clip the + sign to add content. Click ‘Browse’ to search through your device to add music to your playlist, or add new effects from your own collection.With iOS 11 your choice is not limited to the contents of the Apple Music app- search through ALL your stored files. And on iPad iOS 11, you can even drag and drop from your documents folder:Listener Comments:Play Audio Comment: Safe Living Today Show - http://www.SafeLivingToday.comSpreaker Links:http://Adore.fmhttp://blog.spreaker.comhttp://SpreakerLiveShow.comhttps://Spreaker.comEmail: rob at spreaker.comSend Questions and Comments to:Twitter: http://twitter.com/spreaker using #SpreakerLiveTwitter: http://twitter.com/robgreenleeTwitter: http://twitter.com/alexeum Tech Support: support at spreaker.com

Spreaker Live Show #128 for Sept 27th, 2017Show Duration: 48 minutesHost: Rob Greenlee, Head of Content, Spreaker @robgreenlee - rob(at)spreaker(dotcom)Co-Host: Alex Exum, Host of “The Exum Experience Podcast” on SpreakerWe stream LIVE every Weds at 3 Pacific /6pm EST from SpreakerLiveShow.comShow Today:- Are company brand safety worries impacting podcastings advertising potential- Spreaker Studio for iOS 11 is out with some changes - We got an audio question from Steve of Safe Living Today ShowOn the show today:- Are company brand safety worries impacting podcastings advertising potentialHost reads by popular hosts are an effective advertising method on podcasts but many marketers are worried about brand safety by being in some podcasts and are failing to maximise their potential.live / host read ads by hosts resonate best with audiences because there is already an in-built trust. They are even more effective if the brand allows the host to inject their own personality into the read.Marketers worried about a lack of control are often choosing safer options of a scripted read by the podcast producer because they are concerned about brand damage if the host says something negative or off color.Advertising on a podcast where the host drops the four-letter words, but the audience won’t be offended because they have chosen to be there. Likely won’t be shocked because that’s what they expect when they tune in for.Truth is the less scripted a live read feels, the better the response. Advertising duration/time should be restricted to three minutes per hour, less than radio or television, as tolerance of interruptive advertising is lower among podcast listeners because it is a more personal medium. - Spreaker Studio iOS 11 Make it Even Easier to Pick your Sounds for your Podcast (http://blog.spreaker.com)Warning: Advise NOT to use Major Label Music in your Podcast, Epidemic Sound Subscription Option or music you make Music libraries are increasingly becoming more like dispersed pockets of musical treasure: some tracks tucked away in folders on your device, some songs just stored on iCloud, some tracks shared with you through Dropbox. So when you’re uploading music to your podcast, you want to easily be able to tap into your library, however spread out it may be!That’s what our podcasting community has shared with us and we want podcasting reflect the way that you work best. Recording and editing your content with Spreaker Studio on your iPhone or iPad gives you the mobility to podcast on the go, and now with the new iOS update you can directly insert media files that you have on your device, both locally and in the cloud, without needing to shuffle them around into a single folder first.In Spreaker Studio, go to the recording page and clip the + sign to add content. Click ‘Browse’ to search through your device to add music to your playlist, or add new effects from your own collection.With iOS 11 your choice is not limited to the contents of the Apple Music app- search through ALL your stored files. And on iPad iOS 11, you can even drag and drop from your documents folder:Listener Comments:Play Audio Comment: Safe Living Today Show - http://www.SafeLivingToday.comSpreaker Links:http://Adore.fmhttp://blog.spreaker.comhttp://SpreakerLiveShow.comhttps://Spreaker.comEmail: rob at spreaker.comSend Questions and Comments to:Twitter: http://twitter.com/spreaker using #SpreakerLiveTwitter: http://twitter.com/robgreenleeTwitter: http://twitter.com/alexeum Tech Support: support at spreaker.com

If a disaster happens, do you have enough food, water, and other necessities to last two weeks or longer? Unfortunately, the vast majority of people give little or no thought to stockpiling enough resources to last at least two weeks. Please don't wait until a major storm is predicted or a disaster has already happened. It may be too late. Take action now to safeguard yourself and your loved ones by creating a stockpile of food, water, and other necessities. RECOMMENDED ITEMSEnsure you have access to items like:- Enough gallon jugs of water. The CDC recommends at least 1-gallon per person per day at a minimum (replace with new water jugs at least annually). If you are on well water, you'll need additional water storage.- Two can openers (in case one breaks);- Canned and other nonperishable food. Consider those with special dietary needs. (Note: track "Use by" dates and replace outdated items as needed);- Pet food and supplies (if applicable);- Toilet paper and paper towels;- Trash bags;- A hand cranked portable radio and flashlight;- Battery operated radios and flashlights;- Plenty of batteries (check battery type needed for each battery powered item);- A Coleman type camping stove (nice to have, but depending on food may not be mandatory);- Enough prescription and non-prescription medications; - Books, paper, and pens (it gets real boring real fast with no electricity); and,- Blankets and enough clothing.You'll want to fill your car's gas tank ahead of a storm in the event officials order an evacuation such as occurred in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. I suggest keeping bottles of water, snacks, and blankets in your car in the event you're stuck for an extended period on a highway.Here is a good PDF resource prepared by FEMA and the American Red Cross that will help you decide what you should stockpile and how those items should be stored and used. I suggest printing this guide out and taking action on the recommendations.Link: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdfLink From My Google Drive: https://tinyurl.com/yagunt9aStay Safe, Stay Well, and Stay Blessed,Steve Carterhttp://www.SafeLivingToday.com

If a disaster happens, do you have enough food, water, and other necessities to last two weeks or longer? Unfortunately, the vast majority of people give little or no thought to stockpiling enough resources to last at least two weeks. Please don't wait until a major storm is predicted or a disaster has already happened. It may be too late. Take action now to safeguard yourself and your loved ones by creating a stockpile of food, water, and other necessities. RECOMMENDED ITEMSEnsure you have access to items like:- Enough gallon jugs of water. The CDC recommends at least 1-gallon per person per day at a minimum (replace with new water jugs at least annually). If you are on well water, you'll need additional water storage.- Two can openers (in case one breaks);- Canned and other nonperishable food. Consider those with special dietary needs. (Note: track "Use by" dates and replace outdated items as needed);- Pet food and supplies (if applicable);- Toilet paper and paper towels;- Trash bags;- A hand cranked portable radio and flashlight;- Battery operated radios and flashlights;- Plenty of batteries (check battery type needed for each battery powered item);- A Coleman type camping stove (nice to have, but depending on food may not be mandatory);- Enough prescription and non-prescription medications; - Books, paper, and pens (it gets real boring real fast with no electricity); and,- Blankets and enough clothing.You'll want to fill your car's gas tank ahead of a storm in the event officials order an evacuation such as occurred in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. I suggest keeping bottles of water, snacks, and blankets in your car in the event you're stuck for an extended period on a highway.Here is a good PDF resource prepared by FEMA and the American Red Cross that will help you decide what you should stockpile and how those items should be stored and used. I suggest printing this guide out and taking action on the recommendations.Link: https://www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdfLink From My Google Drive: https://tinyurl.com/yagunt9aStay Safe, Stay Well, and Stay Blessed,Steve Carterhttp://www.SafeLivingToday.com