This month's Health, Fitness & Nutrition section provides several safety tips for around the home. Many dangers that we perform are often overlooked, and I would like to point out a few of them and hopefully prevent any accidents from happening. Leaving a child home alone is a big issue, and I provide tips for deciding when this should occur. Some cooking safety tips are also included in this section.

Outdoor activities can be popular when there's snow outside, and so you will find some safety guidelines for several activities. Safety is often overlooked by children when playing in the snow, and so parents and teachers need to be aware of safety issues to help keep kids safe.

I am very fond of pets, and I have had from "one to many" since I can remember. I believe that having pets is something that everyone should be allowed to experience, so I have included some tips to help you decide if it is right for you and your children. There are many things you need to consider, and I have included some excellent links that talk about all of them. Owning an animal is an amazing experience if done correctly, so I hope these tips help, and allow you to be confident in the decision you make.

Remember to have a safe holiday season.

Brenna Clark
pelinks4u editorial assistant

Sledding is a very popular winter activity for kids, but there's an estimated 33,000+ sledding injuries treated in hospitals each year. If sledding is done safely it can be a very fun activity that allows for a good amount of physical activity, hauling yourself and the sled up the hill. So this is a great activity to encourage as long as guidelines are followed, and rules are enforced by an adult. Keep your kids and students safe by following the National Safety Council's guidelines which include:

	Children ages 5 to 9 are most susceptible to injury. Parents of young children should not let them sled alone. Older kids should be taught to check for hazards.
	Keep all equipment in good condition. Broken parts, sharp edges, and cracks invite injuries.
	Dress for the conditions.
	Sled on spacious, gently sloping dunes which have a level run-off at the end so that the sled can come to a halt safely.
	Make sure the sledding path does not cross traffic, and is free from hazards such as vegetation, rocks, or other obstructions.
	The proper position for sledding is to sit or lay on your back on the top of the sled, with your feet pointing downhill. Sledding head first increases the risk of head injury and should be avoided.

The most often overlooked of these guidelines is sledding on gentle slopes. Taking risks can sometimes be fun, but only when risks can be calculated and controlled. The speed of sledding is great fun, but even small amounts of speed can cause very serious and sometimes fatal injuries if obstructions are hit. Don't allow for sledding where there are obstructions. Trees, rocks, etc., should be well beyond the level run-off at the bottom of a gentle slope.

Also make sure that all kids are continuously watched. Many times small children who are not paying attention get hit by sledders coming down the hill. This causes serious injuries and needs to be prevented. With these things in mind, get out there and have a very safe and fun sledding adventure.

Other popular winter activities can also be encouraged, but remember the safety rules for them as well.

ICE SKATING

	Skates should fit comfortably and provide ankle support.
	Only skate in designated skating areas where the ice is known to be strong.
	Always check for cracks, holes, and debris on the ice.
	Never skate alone.

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING

	Be familiar with skiing and snowboarding safety guidelines.
	Prepare before you hit the slopes by being in good physical condition and taking lessons.
	Use the right equipment and make sure it's in good condition.
	Wear a helmet. Helmet use by skiers and snowboarders could reduce head injuries by about fifty percent.
	When ski-wear shopping, purchase fabrics which are water and wind resistant. Clothing should not be loose at the ankles or wrists. Collars that completely cover the neck are also helpful for wind resistance.
	Dress in layers.
	Use sunblock. Sun reflecting off snow is surprisingly strong.
	Wear eye protection. Goggles or glasses help protect your eyes from the sun and flying objects.
	Make sure your child memorizes and follows the National Ski Patrol's responsibility code.
	Find out more about helmets, snow sports safety, and kids from Lids on Kids.

If You are a Victim of Domestic Violence Be Prepared to Get Away - Developing a plan makes victims feel empowered. It is particularly important that you NOT tell the abuser of your plans. For your safety, and to ensure you get the help you need there are some preparations that you must make. This site provides VERY good information and advice.

WomensLaw.org - WomensLaw.org was founded in February 2000 by a group of lawyers, teachers, activists, and web designers interested in seeing the power of the Internet work for more disadvantaged people, and specifically for survivors of domestic violence. WomensLaw.org provides easy-to-understand legal information and resources to women living with or escaping domestic violence.

The site publishes state-specific legal information for domestic violence. It also publishes information on getting help in your community.

Know the Rules - Abduction and Kidnapping Prevention Tips for Parents and Guardians. According to a study conducted by the Washington State Attorney General's Office for the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, in 57 percent of the cases, the victims of child-abduction murder are victims of opportunity. These tips will help families lessen the opportunity for abduction and kidnapping, and better safeguard their children.

At What Age is it Safe to Leave My Child Home Alone?

When you're ready to leave your child home alone for the first time, be sure to:

	Consider your child's age and maturity level. For example, if your child is extremely impulsive, you might want to wait until he or she is older than 12.
	Begin with several "dry runs" where you leave your child home alone for short periods of time.
	Leave a phone number where you can be reached. If possible, provide a land line in addition to your cell phone number, just in case your company's service is disrupted for any reason.
	Call home to check on your child.
	If possible, make arrangements for your child to check in with you, or with a relative or neighbor, while you are out.
	Thoroughly prepare your child for staying home alone. Consider using a book, such as Dottie Raymer's Staying Home Alone, to discuss what it means to make safe choices.
	Be specific in discussing your expectations, and how you would like your child to use his or her time. For example:
	-	Is the TV allowed?
	-	If so, are there any channels that are off-limits?
	-	Do you want your child to answer the phone?
	-	Should homework be completed before you arrive?
	-	May your child use the computer?
	-	Can your child have friends over while you're not at home?
	-	Can he or she go to other friends' houses?
	Make sure your home is childproof. For example:
	-	Are medications kept in a locked cabinet?
	-	Are there firearms in the home?
	-	If so, are they in a locked cabinet and/or do they have child safety locks?
	-	What could your child potentially get into that might cause harm?
	Practice handling emergencies. For example:
	-	What would you do in an emergency?
	-	What if someone were trying to get into the house?
	-	What would you do if there were a fire?
	Ask your child if he or she feels confident and ready to stay home alone. If he or she is hesitant, hire a babysitter and reconsider this issue in six months.

A pet can be a great addition to the family. Many parents decide that a pet would be a wonderful present. However, there are many things to consider, including the right pet, care of that pet, and safety of their children. If you are thinking about getting a pet for a child, or have already done so, here are some resources that will make the experience a safe and enjoyable one.

What do I need to know about getting a puppy? This is an excellent page that presents all the things that go into raising a puppy, and also deciding if you should get one. There are wonderful links that will give great information on breeds, and how to choose the one that is right for you.

Kids and Dogs Information and Resources
This page has great links for kids. There are stories written by other children about their dogs, activities to do with their dogs, education about having a dog or getting one, and many other excellent links. There is also a portion that has safety tips for parents. There are many links that are extremely informative and worthwhile. Check it out and have your kids play around with it too.

FDA Children's All About Animals page
This page has a few simple tips for keeping your animals happy and healthy. It also has a portion on reptile safety. The site targets younger kids and would be a great learning tool for them. It also includes an activity.

Cat Basics 101
This site has everything that you would need to know about getting a cat, or owning a cat. There are tons of links to great resources that go into detail about everything you would need to know.

Top 7 Pets for Kids
This site discusses each pet briefly, and presents pros and cons for each. The pets presented are ones that any family could own if chosen.

With all of these sites you will find excellent information. Just remember there are a few things that must be thought through first. Will you have enough time and money to care for the pet you choose? Will it be compatible with the children in your home? Do you know what kind of care the animal needs, and can you provide it?

Care includes regular veterinary check ups, vaccinations, and other needs dependant upon what kind of pet was chosen. Think it through, and if you do not have enough information visit a vet clinic and ask questions. Most will be very willing to help, and can give you thorough, high quality information. Keeping a pet is a great way to build confidence, independence, and responsibility in a child.

Cytomegalovirus - Infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV), a member of the herpes virus family, is very common. Children typically become infected with the virus in early childhood, especially those in child-care and preschool settings. Find out more. Also read Definition of Cytomegalovirus.

Infectious Mononucleosis - is an infection that is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV is very common, and most people have been exposed to the virus at some time in childhood. Find out more.

From the CDC, read Epstein-Barr Virus and Infectious Mononucleosis.

Inside Look: How Viruses Invade Us - Even though the smallest viruses are only about one-millionth of an inch long, they live up to their Latin namesake—poison. They are capable of infecting and hijacking a human body, creating health hazards as minor as the common flu and as disastrous as the AIDS epidemic. Find out more.

With family structures 'ever changing' in today's society, many children arrive home from school before a parent, and often do not have supervision for a period of time. Many of these kids cook for themselves, using various appliances. In colder weather warm dishes are most popular, so there are a few safety tips that all parents should have.

MICROWAVE SAFETY

	Children below the age of seven should not use the microwave when there is no supervision.
	The child must be able to reach the oven comfortably. If (s)he can't then the microwave should be lowered so that the child does not pull hot things down onto his/her body.
	Children need to learn that the microwave is not a toy. At no time should the child lean or swing on the oven door.
	Children should be taught all safety precautions: use potholders, remove coverings carefully and away from them, pay special attention to packages that crisp food, because the may be extra hot. Also often overlooked is the fact that children do not know what can, and cannot, go in the microwave - for example metal.
	Don't assume that because a child has mastered one cooking skill (s)he can cook everything. Set out appropriate food that they can cook on their own in a designated spot.

Here are some more general kitchen safety tips that came from Kraft foods.

TOP 10 SAFETY RULES FOR KIDS

	Check that the oven and other cooking appliances are turned off before you leave the kitchen.
	Keep electrical appliances away from water to avoid shocks. Stay away from electrical sockets, especially if your hands are wet.
	If you burn yourself, tell an adult immediately and hold the burned area under cool running water.
	Don't put knives or other sharp objects into a sink full of water. Someone could reach in and get hurt.
	Watch out for sharp knives. Let an adult cut or slice foods, or help you do it.
	Never put water on a cooking fire -- it could make the fire bigger. Ask an adult for help! Put out a fire with a fire extinguisher. If the fire is small, it can be put out with baking soda or smothered with a lid. Leave the house and call 911 if the fire has leaping flames.
	Don't put cooked food on an unwashed plate or cutting board that held raw food. Always use a clean plate.
	Never add water to a pan that has hot oil in it. It could make the oil splatter and burn someone.
	Always turn pot handles in toward the back of the rangetop. This way no one can bump into them and knock the pot over.
	Keep paper towels, dish towels and pot holders away from the rangetop so they don't catch on fire.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

	Adult supervision is mandatory. Ovens, knives, and bubbling pots become potential accidents when kids are left on their own in the kitchen.
	Instill cleanliness by washing hands in hot soapy water before and after handling food, pulling back long hair, and cleaning countertops.
	Always return unused portions of perishable foods, like dairy products and meats, to the refrigerator right after using them. Don't let them sit out on the counter.
	Teach microwave oven safety. Show how to select a microwavable bowl, and to use pot holders, when removing containers from the oven.
	When shaping foods with hands, caution children not to lick their fingers or put their hands in their mouths. This is especially important with raw foods, such as cookie dough and meat.
	Instruct children to direct sneezes and coughs away from food, to use a tissue to cover mouth and nose, and to wash hands immediately afterward.
	Instead of wiping hands on dish towels after handling raw meats, use paper towels. If a dish towel comes in contact with raw meats or their juices, immediately remove it from the kitchen for laundering.

Match your kids' skill levels with various tasks for safe kitchen fun. Here are some suggestions for age-specific tasks: - SOURCE

3-YEAR OLDS
	Wash fruits and vegetables
	Stir ingredients in a bowl
	Tear lettuce
	Pour liquids
4-YEAR OLDS
	Grease pans
	Open packages
	Peel oranges or hard-cooked eggs
	Snip fresh herbs with dull scissors
	Mash bananas with a fork
5 TO 6 YEAR OLDS
	Measure ingredients
	Cut soft foods with a blunt knife
	Set the table
	Garnish food
7 TO 8 YEAR OLDS
	Help plan the meal
	Roll and shape cookies
	Beat ingredients with a whisk
	Find ingredients in a cabinet or spice rack
	Make a salad
9 TO 12 YEAR OLDS
	Open cans
	Use a microwave oven
	Prepare simple recipes with few ingredients
	Use an oven (with supervision)
	Use a knife (with supervision)
	Shred cheese and vegetables
13 TO 16 YEAR OLDS
	Prepare recipes with multiple ingredients
	Prepare recipes independently

Check out this website for more fun and safe ideas.