Click here to view previous information.

*     Medical Safety

Medications

Only take medicine which has been prescribed for you.    Never take medicine prescribed for someone else, even if they appear to have the same complaint.    And don't share your medicine with others.    This may not only be illegal, but also could be dangerous.

Medications that are not clearly and accurately marked, can easily be mixed up.    Taking the wrong medicine, or missing a dose of medicine, can be dangerous.    Keep all medications out of reach of children, many poisonings occur when children visiting grandparents, go through the medicine cabinet or grandmother's purse.

It is also very important that all medications are explained to you by your GP, hospital or pharmacist.    If need be, write down the correct dosage, and times the medication is to be taken.

Besides storing your medications in their original containers, your local pharmacist can advise you of other alternatives.    These can assist you to take the correct medication when required.    Some examples are:

SAFE-T-DOSE
MEDI CHEST
7 DAY PILL REMINDER
DOSETT

Idea:

Store your medicine in a cool, dry place.    It will keep better.

Personal medical alarms

Personal emergency alarms allow you to get the help you need, with the press of a button.

There are two types of medical alarms on sale, for use in an emergency.  Both operate through your telephone, and can be worn as a pendant or a wrist band.

1.    An option is a telephone-based alarm.    It sends a radio signal to a unit when it is set off.    The unit calls a sequence of telephone numbers with a recorded message saying the user needs help.    After the initial cost of the pendant, the only costs involved are the costs of the phone calls.    The drawback, is that if none of the numbers answer, or if an answering machine takes the call, the necessary help will be delayed.    This alarm is only useful in your own home.

2.    The second option is a device which calls a Monitoring Centre where someone deals with the problem.    This service is likely to be the most reliable of the two, but it involves ongoing costs, and again, it is only useful in your own home.    Some devices call the user every day to check that all is well.

In any medical emergency, immediately phone 000 for an AMBULANCE.

Idea:

For advice about the best alarm for your circumstances, contact your local health service or Independent Living Centre (phone 02 6205 1900). Remember to be careful with personal alarms when young children are around.

Vial of Life

HOW DOES THE VIAL WORK?

The Vial of Life Program provides personalised information, and can be used to gain immediate attention, in case of disaster or medical emergency  -  (injury, severe pain, unconsciousness etc).

FOR WHOM THE VIAL IS RECOMMENDED?

The person who:

• lives alone
  

• is apart from family or next of kin  -  even for only a brief period of the day
  

• travels in a private car
  

• travels by public transport
  

• is an athlete and trains alone
  

• is a cyclist (push bike or motor bike)
  

THE FREE VIAL OF LIFE CONSISTS OF:

1.    A SMALL VIAL (container) and PLASTIC WALLET.

2.    INFORMATION SHEET  -  Details to be filled in by you.

a) Name and address

b) Name and phone number of your Doctor.

c) Name, address and phone number of family or friend.

d) Medical conditions, allergies (including allergies to drugs)

The completed sheet is to be placed in the vial or plastic wallet.

3.    SELF-ADHESIVE BLUE LABEL for refrigerator or glove box door.    This helps locate your "Vial of Life" in an emergency.

PLACE YOUR COMPLETED VIAL:

1.    IN THE HOME  -  Secure the vial or plastic wallet to the top shelf inside the refrigerator, the safest place in your home, as the refrigerator is fire resistant.

The Blue Label is attached to the outside top corner of the refrigerator door.

2.    IN THE CAR  -  Secure the vial or plastic wallet inside the glove box, and attach the Blue Label to the glove box door.

3.    OTHER USES  -  handbag, wallet, cycle helmet.

Idea:

Review your information regularly.

Medic Alert

MEDIC ALERT provides personal medical identification and information to save lives.

USES OF MEDIC ALERT

• One person in five has a special need or problem.
  

- Allergies - e.g. penicillin, morphine, insect sting.

- Conditions - e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, haemophilia.

- Abnormalities - e.g. implants, transplants, contact lens.

- Current Medication - e.g. taking insulin, taking cortisone.

• Whenever anyone cannot speak because of panic, unconsciousness, shock or hysteria, whenever loved ones cannot be contacted, the Medic Alert emblem speaks for them.
  

MEDIC ALERT SYSTEM

Medic Alert provides a four part system consisting of:

• Bracelet/necklet
  

• Wallet card
  

• Computer data bank
  

• 24 hour telephone answering service.
  

VITAL INFORMATION AVAILABLE  -  THROUGH MEDIC ALERT SYSTEM

• Name and address - patient
  

• Name and address - next of kin
  

• Name and address - doctor and/or specialist
  

• Conditions
  

• Medication
  

• Hospital records file number.
  

• Other information as recorded by treating doctor.
  

Idea:

Always carry some form of ID whenever you are away from your residence.

Preventing falls

To prevent falls in and around the home, the following questions

should be considered, and action taken where necessary:

• Are outside areas brightly lit at night?    Consider installing lights with sensors.
  

• Are there grip rails near steps?
  

• Are all paths clear of obstructions?
  

• Are there light switches near the top and bottom of the stairs?
  

• Modify or add extra lighting to avoid walking in the dark to reach light switches.
  

• Are walkways clear of hazards such as low furniture, loose rugs, electrical cords, etc.?
  

• Do you leave a hall light on at night?    Nightlights are an inexpensive way to provide light in halls or passageways.
  

• Do the kitchen, laundry and bathroom floor have slip-resistant surfaces?
  

• Do your floor mats have slip-resistant backing?
  

• Is the step ladder sturdy?
  

• Have you got secure rails by the shower, bath and toilet?
  

• Be aware of areas of your house that have small changes in floor level.
  

CONSIDER

• A personal alarm or daily check up system involving a neighbour, family or friend.
  

• Changing the swing of the toilet door, to make it easier to open in case of a fall, or use special hinges which allows the door to be lifted off from the outside.
  

• In an emergency, can you reach the phone from the floor?
  

• Regularly check the fixtures that hold handrails to the wall to make sure they are stable.
  

• Ensure that floors are not slippery, and are free from raised edges.
  

• Use slip-resistant tape to the top of the steps, and paint the nose of the steps white for better night visibility.
  

• Consider installing an automatic sensor light near stairs.
  

• Cover stairs to prevent rain water from accumulating on steps.
  

• Steps need a second hand rail with a 300mm (or 1 foot) extension at the bottom step.
  

Idea:

Consider installing a night light and telephone in your bedroom, for added safety and security.

Be prepared

While bandages and dressings can be improvised, it is far better to have proper equipment on hand.    These materials should always be kept in a clean, dry, air-tight container.    Do not keep the container in a damp atmosphere, such as a bathroom, and make sure that it is clearly labelled.

Below is a suggested list of contents that may be in the kit:

1 packet Band Aid

3 sterile combine dressings

3 sterile non-adherent dressings

6 assorted roller bandages (50mm and 75mm)

4 triangular bandages

1 antiseptic solution

1 pair of scissors

1 pair of sharp splinter forceps

1 25mm roll of hypo-allergic tape

6 assorted safety pins

NETWORK OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS

It is important that regular contact is made with relatives, neighbours and friends, or via systems such as Telecross, Friends for the Oldies, or Volunteers In Home Respite Service, all available through the Red Cross.

SET UP A NEIGHBOUR CODE

Open your blinds by 10am everyday, to let your neighbour know that everything is O.K.    Using codes, allows neighbours to care without having to interfere.

MOBILITY AIDS

There are a range of mobility aids available, such as, wheel chairs, walking sticks, frames and hand rails.

People suffering from disabilities, can often be helped by aids to make life a little easier.    These can be gained from such places as ACT Equipment Scheme, Technical Aid to the Disabled, and the Independent Living Centre.

The need for use of these aids, is through assessment carried out by Occupational Therapists or Physiotherapists, by referral from your General Practitioner.

Idea:

It is important that the aid is the correct size for the person using it.

Diet and general health

WISE EATING FOR EVERYONE!

Good nutrition is a lifetime job.    It helps both young and old to be at their best.    Even in the event of illness, a well nourished body will respond better to treatment, than one run down by years of poor eating habits.    Tiredness, poor digestion, underweight or overweight, are a few of the problems that can result, if your choice of food is not as wise as it should be.

The following guidelines have been developed to help Australians in their choice of an appropriate diet.

By following these principles you will be able to choose foods which will help you to remain healthy and active:

• Choose a nutritious and varied diet
  

• Control your weight
  

• Avoid eating too much fat
  

• Avoid eating too much sugar
  

• Eat more bread and cereals (preferably wholegrain) and vegetables and fruits
  

• Limit alcohol consumption
  

• Use less salt
  

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT YOUR DOCTOR REGULARLY

In the past thirty years, medical science has come a long way.    Regular visits to your doctor, will help medical conditions to be detected sooner.    Regular checks on your blood pressure and medication IS important.

With regular monitoring, conditions such as heart problems and mature onset diabetes, can be addressed at an earlier stage.

WHY YOU SHOULD EXERCISE REGULARLY

Regular exercise along with good nutrition and regular visits to your doctor, is another important aspect of personal wellbeing.

Regular walking and programs such as Tai Chi, improve your cardiovascular system, which leads to a longer life and healthier lifestyle.

Exercise can be beneficial to people suffering arthritic pain.    It also improves mobility.

Idea:

Preparing for a visit to your doctor and knowing what questions to ask gives you more control over your health.

*     Security

Security in the home

PHYSICAL SECURITY OF THE HOME

There are three basic principles involved in securing your home.

1.    Secure the perimeter first, i.e., doors and windows.

2.    Internal security can be provided by alarms.

3.    Improve visibility with lighting, and by removing shrubbery from the line of sight.

Security should act as a deterrent to possible intruders, without making you feel like a prisoner in your own home.

Idea:

YOUR home is YOUR castle.

Security Devices

There is a wide range of security devices available to make your home secure.

WINDOW LOCKS

Most burglars get in through windows, so it makes sense to fit window locks.    There are locks for every kind of window, and they can cost very little.

SECURITY DOORS

Fit good quality steel security doors to all entrances.    They provide an additional lock, and a barrier between you and a caller.

DOOR LOCKS

A small investment in quality locks will protect your possessions, including items which cannot be adequately replaced by insurance money, and give personal security for you and your family.

Fit security deadlocks to your main exit doors.    These locks can be opened or closed from both sides, only with a key.    The key should be easily accessible to occupants.

The simple night latch, which you can open from the inside by turning a knob, provides very little security, especially if there is glass nearby.    All a burglar needs to do is break the glass, reach in, and turn the knob.

A deadlock can be opened only with a key, so a burglar cannot smash nearby glass and open the door from the inside.    If the burglar enters through a window, your property cannot be carried out through the doors.

Special locks for patio doors are available.

DOOR VIEWERS

A peephole fitted in the door, and a light outside, allows you to identify callers before letting them in.

CHAINS

These help you to speak with strangers at the front door, before letting them in.    Once you have one fitted, get into the habit of using it.    This should not be used as a primary security device.

ADVICE AND ASSISTANCE

Advice about the most suitable security devices for your home is available from locksmiths, insurance companies or security consultants.

Idea:

If you have deadlocks installed in your home, make sure you leave the keys in the locks on the inside of the door while you are at home.

Locks

THE CHOICE

There is an enormous range of locks available on the market.

Choosing the type that is suitable for your need, may not be an easy task.    Understanding the terminology is important, when making a selection of locks.

The latch is the part of the mechanism that is worked by the handle.

The lock is the part worked by the key or some extra knob.

The handle is the part you turn with your hand to open or close a door.

LOCKING DOORS

Internal doors  -  whether you choose to lock internal doors is up to you.    You should bear in mind, that although locking doors will increase your security, locked doors can slow your exit in the event of a fire.   

External doors  -  using a deadlocking version will provide more security than a latch, which can be slid back from the outside.    A deadlock on its own, will be inconvenient, without a latch to allow you to go in and out when the door is not locked.

WHAT TO DO WHEN CHOOSING DOOR HARDWARE

The best thing to do when making a selection of locks for your house,

is to make a list of rooms and doors, and decide how you want to lock them.    Find the right place to buy your hardware from.    Take your list along to the shop, and sort out what you need.

Idea:

In houses where older people live, consider swinging bathroom and toilet doors outwards, to allow easy entry to these rooms, in case of an emergency.    Such doors should have the privacy lock easily opened from the outside.

Knob handles on external doors may be too close to the door frame, to allow easy turning.    Lever handles are usually preferred by older people.

Intruder/security alarms

INTERNAL SECURITY ALARM SYSTEMS

Before rushing off and spending hundreds of dollars consider:

a)    What threat do you want to protect against?
b)    What methods of protection are available?
c)    Alarm detectors - which type do you require?
d)    What type of alarm signal do you require?
e)    Who will respond?

It should be clearly understood at the outset, that there is a difference between an alarm system, and an intruder security system.    A warning system is to inform other people of a problem.    Alarms are used to indicate a problem with machinery, water levels or fire.    Neither will stop unauthorised entry, but merely indicate or inform others that it has occurred.

An intruder security alarm indicates that an unauthorised person has entered the monitored area.

The amount of protection a system provides is measured by the response to such an alarm.    Therefore, alarm systems alone are of little value in many situations  -  such as remote locations, smash grab, etc.

To achieve practical security, usually means a balance between electronic and physical methods.

A rough yardstick is:  what physical security is required to withstand an attack for longer than the response time to the alarm?

PERSONAL SECURITY ALARMS

These alarms are compact, and are carried on your person.    They have a built-in audible alarm, and use compressed gas or batteries.    When the alarm is activated, it will emit a loud piercing noise.

These alarms can be worn as a pendant, brooch, or carried in a handbag.

When buying a personal alarm, think about weight;  ease of operation;  amount of noise emitted;  and cost.

It must be remembered that these alarms are meant to act as a deterrent, by alerting nearby people.    They DO NOT guarantee protection from attack.

Idea:

An intruder alarm is not a substitute for good physical security, but most work in conjunction with it.

Lighting/electricity

IS THERE AN AUTOMATIC LIGHTING TIMER INSTALLED?

If no one is at home, lights on and the sound of a television or radio, creates the impression that someone is home  -  even during the day.

An automatic lighting timer may be installed, which turns the lights on and off during the evenings, at the same time the resident normally would.

EXTERNAL SECURITY LIGHTING

Internal and external lighting can also be a deterrent.    The criminal does not like to work in a lit area, because of the increased risk of being observed.

External lighting could be just a simple light which can be switched on when required, or operated by a sensor.    Sensor lights can incorporate sensor and light together, or you may have one sensor operating a number of lights around your home.    This could be as a security device when an intruder enters the home, or for safety purposes, such as in the garage when you arrive home, on stair cases, or wherever you feel it would make your home secure, or improve your safety.

ELECTRICITY METER BOX

Preferably all switches and fuses should be fitted internally, with only the meter showing on the outside of the premises.    The existing meter box can be locked by means of a lock purchased from ACTEW.

An intruder is able to detect whether premises are vacant or not, by switching off the power supply at the meter box.    If the power supply is not switched back on, it indicates the home is not occupied.

Idea:

Consider installing outside lights which will switch on automatically as you walk past.    These units can be adjusted to stay on for up to 15 minutes.    They will not only save you money on energy bills, but will also deter intruders.

Securing property

GARDEN SHED/GARAGE

IS YOUR GARDEN SHED ABLE TO BE LOCKED AND SECURED?

ARE YOUR GARDEN TOOLS LOCKED AWAY WHEN NOT IN USE?

Garden tools left lying about, may provide an offender with the means needed to break into the home.

Ensure all tools are locked away in the garden shed or garage.

The shed or garage should be fitted with a strong lock, or a chain and padlock.

Treat doors and windows in your shed or garage similar to your house.

(See previous section.)

CEILING ACCESS HOLE (MANHOLE)

Ideally, the ceiling access cover should be of solid construction, and fitted internally with hinges and sliding padbolt, to create a door in the roof, making access to the house from the ceiling difficult.

ROOF ACCESS

Ladders, wheelie bins and large items can give easy access to the roof.    Do not leave these around the yard, as someone else may use them for that purpose.

Idea:

Tools left lying around, can also be used to gain entry.

Protecting property

IDENTIFYING AND PROTECTING YOUR PROPERTY

Engraving or marking your valuable property, leaves no doubt as to ownership.

It deters others from taking YOUR property, because of the difficulties involved in 'off loading' identifiable property, and also helps police to identify owners of stolen property which has been recovered.

WHAT YOU SHOULD MARK

Items listed are those most often stolen.    It is therefore important that you mark as many of these items as possible, regardless of their value.

Check off each item on your list after marking.

CHECKLIST

Television;   Musical equipment;  Binoculars;   Video equipment;  Antiques;  Cameras;  Microwave;  Clothing;  Furniture;  Kitchen appliances;  Typewriters;  Stereo;  Sporting Goods;  Clocks;  Radios;  Cassette recorder;  Firearms;  Computer equipment.

Idea:

Engraving your property also discourages people from purchasing stolen goods.

HOW YOU CAN MARK YOUR PROPERTY

(i) Using an engraver

Electronic engravers are available from your local police station, or your nearest Neighbourhood Watch.

Take care when using an engraver, and seek operation advice, before you begin.    Where possible, place your identification code in the top right hand rear corner of the item.

(ii)    Using an Ultra Violet Pen

Use an ultra violet pen, rather than an engraver, to mark items such as antiques, paintings, jewellery and collectables.

(iii) Photograph or Video

Not all items are suitable for marking by electric engraver.    The following items should be photographed or video taped, with a ruler or match box beside them, to assist in determining size.

• Jewellery
  

• Watches
  

• Silverware
  

• Furs
  

• Antiques
  

• Paintings
  

(iv) Other

Items such as trailers, tractors, other farm machinery and tools, can be marked by cold stamping or welding your identification code.

WHAT CODE TO USE

Property identification involves marking your property with a personal code.

The following code should be used:

Your drivers licence number, preceded by the letter 'A'.    The letter 'A' stands for the Australian Capital Territory.

Holiday Safety

HOLIDAY SECURITY PRECAUTIONS

A house left empty for some time, is a prime target for intruders, because the chances are they will not be disturbed, and any offence will go undetected for days or perhaps weeks.

When you go on holidays, it is important that you do not leave behind any clues that will tempt an intruder.    The following guidelines will help you reduce the chance of your house being broken into whilst away.

• Check all doors and windows are securely locked.
  

• Lock your rubbish bin (wheelie bin) in the garage, or have a friend or neighbour place rubbish in your bin, and put it out for collection at the usual time.
  

• Maintain a 'lived-in' appearance at your home.
  

• Have your mail re-directed, collected by a neighbour, or held at the Post Office.
  

• Cancel all deliveries, newspapers, milk etc.
  

• Have a neighbour regularly collect advertising and 'junk mail' from your letter box.
  

• Arrange to keep paths and driveways free of papers and other debris.
  

• Inform your trusted neighbours of your intended absence.
  

• Do not leave keys concealed for others to use  -  an offender may take advantage of this.
  

• Lock away garden tools, ladders, and anything which may be used to gain entry to your home, garage or shed.
  

• Disconnect the electrical supply on radio-controlled or electronic garage doors, and use a good quality lock.
  

• External floodlighting can be linked to a passive infra red detector, which automatically activates lights when someone enters its field of vision.
  

• Do not leave notes advertising your absence.    Ask neighbours not to tell callers that you are absent on holidays.
  

• Consider using the most secure room in your home to store valuables.
  

• If property is stored under the home, ensure the access door is locked.
  

• Windows can be made more secure by the installation of window locks, grilles, security film or external roller shutters.
  

• Turn down the volume on your telephone, on the day you leave.
  

• Before leaving, again check that all doors and windows are locked.
  

A good neighbour can be as effective as a police patrol, in protecting your home and property while you are away.

Idea:

Do not leave messages on your door or answering machine to the effect that you are not at home.

*     Disclaimer

Any representation, statement, opinion or advice, expressed or implied in this publication, is made in good faith, but on the basis that the Council on The Ageing, its agents and employees, are not liable (whether by reason of negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for damage or loss whatsoever, which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to above.

Home Page

******************************

This Community Support Website

is

Powered by MD Web Hosting