June is National Safety Month

National Safety Month

National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road and in our homes and communities. 


Week 1: Emergency Preparedness

Did you know...

  • There has been at least one tornado in every month of the year in Iowa since 1965? Iowa averages 47 tornados per year with May and June being the most active months. Find more information from the National Weather Service or EH&S Tornado page.
  • All thunderstorms produce lightning. Lightning kills an average of 49 people in the U.S. each year and has been the second largest storm killer for the last 40 years. Learn more about lightning safety from the National Weather Service or EH&S Lightning page.
  • Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles! The National Weather Service and EH&S Flood page have tips to help keep you safe.
  • On average, 7 people die every day in home fires in the U.S. Two simple steps that can save lives: checking or installing smoke alarms and practicing fire drills. More information is available from the American Red Cross and EH&S Fire page.

Resources

Week 2: Wellness

Focus on your wellness each day

  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a walk at lunch to work physical activity into your daily schedule.
  • Take advantage of workplace wellness programs and choose healthy snacks each day.
  • Find nearby options for exercise classes through your local parks and recreation department.
  • Take breaks throughout your day to refresh your body and mind – if you sit for long periods, stand up, and stretch for a few minutes at a time.
  • Get regular medical checkups, such as an annual physical and age-appropriate test.

Resources

Week 3: Falls

According to the National Safety Council falls account for some 8.9 million visits to the emergency room annually.  The second leading cause of accidental death in homes are falls.

  • Store heavy items below a height of five feet; use an appropriate ladder to access items stored above five feet.
  • Ensure aisles and walkways are clear of stored items. Report problems to Facilities Planning and Management (FP&M).
  • Report inadequate lighting in stairwells and exit-ways to FP&M.
  • Wear shoes appropriate for the activity and weather.
  • When using ladders, always keep at least three points of contact (two hands and one foot; two feet and one hand).
  • Help with prevention: If you drop it, pick it up; if you spill it, wipe it up.

Help us keep the ISU campus safe - if you have a fall or accident on campus report it.

Resources

Week 4: Driving

More than 90% of crashes are due to driver error, and are therefore preventable.

Adopt safe driving habits:

  • Turn off smartphones or other devices before starting your vehicle.  
  • Adjust vehicle controls such as mirrors, seat, and air temperature controls before driving.
  • Pre-set your navigation system and music playlists before driving.
  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other substances that may cause impairment.
  • Watch your speed and obey posted speed limits.
  • If you are tired, pull over.
  • On long trips, take regular breaks or change drivers to avoid fatigue.
  • Always wear a seatbelt and make sure all passengers are correctly belted before driving.
  • Allow adequate time to get to your destination.
  • Carry out regular inspection of the vehicle before driving.
  • Always follow RUA driver (recognize the hazard, understand the difference and act correctly in time).

Resources