On 2/16/11 it became a two point offense under the NY Vehicle and Traffic Law to use a handheld electronic device while driving for the purpose of making telephone calls or sending/receiving text messages or email. http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/cellphone.htm
On 6/12/11, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed get-tough legistlation that upgraded the enforcement of the texting while driving law to primary status. This gave law enforcement the power to stop drivers solely for engaging in the use of a hand held device. Until then, it had been a secondary offense and traffic ticket for using a handheld electronic device could only be issued if the car was stopped for a primary offense such as speeding or other traffic violations.
On 10/5/11 the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law was amended to increase the point value for cell phone and texting violations from two points to three points.
If you haven't figured it out yet - DON'T USE YOUR PHONE WHILE DRIVING IN NYS!!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Don't Forget Your Carbon Monoxide Alarms
More than 400 people are killed each year in the United States from carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The American Medical Association reports that carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United States.
Other CDC studies indicate that more than 20,000 people are hospitalized each year from this gas, and these poisonings are on the rise due in part to economic reasons. With a stressed economy and high unemployment, more families face utility shutoffs. As a result, they employ other sources of heat, such as kerosene heaters, gas generators, and improperly maintained wood stoves and fireplaces. Such heat sources carry a heavy risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide alarms are essential protective devices in homes with gas appliances, gas heaters, and fireplaces. Here are some tips to consider concerning these important alarms.
· To ensure a high-quality alarm, look for the Underwriters Laboratories certificate on any detector you purchase.
· Connect these alarms to the smoke alarm system so that any alarm in the house becomes activated if a problem arises.
· Periodically test these devices according to the manufacturer's instructions. Batteries should be replaced at least once per year. Replacement of the alarm itself is often necessary after a few years since the average life span of carbon monoxide alarms is relatively short.
· Verify that you have alarms in bedrooms and other locations where people may sleep since people who are sleeping can die from carbon monoxide poisoning without experiencing any symptoms.
Copyright 2011International Risk Management Institute, Inc.
Other CDC studies indicate that more than 20,000 people are hospitalized each year from this gas, and these poisonings are on the rise due in part to economic reasons. With a stressed economy and high unemployment, more families face utility shutoffs. As a result, they employ other sources of heat, such as kerosene heaters, gas generators, and improperly maintained wood stoves and fireplaces. Such heat sources carry a heavy risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide alarms are essential protective devices in homes with gas appliances, gas heaters, and fireplaces. Here are some tips to consider concerning these important alarms.
· To ensure a high-quality alarm, look for the Underwriters Laboratories certificate on any detector you purchase.
· Connect these alarms to the smoke alarm system so that any alarm in the house becomes activated if a problem arises.
· Periodically test these devices according to the manufacturer's instructions. Batteries should be replaced at least once per year. Replacement of the alarm itself is often necessary after a few years since the average life span of carbon monoxide alarms is relatively short.
· Verify that you have alarms in bedrooms and other locations where people may sleep since people who are sleeping can die from carbon monoxide poisoning without experiencing any symptoms.
Copyright 2011International Risk Management Institute, Inc.
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