By Staff
October is special for a lot of reasons. Today, with the temperature dropping, I feel I can finally wear my fall shirt with falling leaves embroidered on it.
To those who fight daily against domestic violence, this month is set aside to increase awareness of this all too common tragedy.
At this year's candlelight vigil, held annually in Cass County, the emphasis was to not blame the victim. It isn't always easy to pick up and leave an abuser, especially if there are children involved.
As people decorate to celebrate Halloween, lighting pumpkins, October takes on another tragedy which can destroy families – fire.
October is also Fire Prevention Month.
Smoke detectors are not just an addition to your home, they are a necessity.
With so many smoke alarms 10 years old, or even older, the recommendation is to replace not only the batteries, but also the alarms themselves.
Not only are the smoke detectors needed, a plan for your family in case of a fire is also important.
Many people have been killed after going back into a burning home, just because they weren't sure if their family members were all out.
Set a spot for everyone to go in case of a fire. That way everyone can be accounted for.
My in-laws had their house torched by some fools on April 1 years ago. I still can recall the smell, the devastation, the loss of all their personal belongings.
They didn't have smoke alarms, only the action of someone passing by saved their lives and that of their daughter and two granddaughters.
These tips to help protect your family and home come from Mr. Electric, a new business in Edwardsburg serving our area.
Call a licensed electrician to ensure your smoke and CO alarms are properly placed and up to current code
Test your smoke and CO alarms once a month as per manufacturer's instructions
Change your smoke and CO alarm batteries twice a year (coordinate with "spring forward, fall back" time changes)
Don't disable your smoke alarms, even temporarily
Regularly vacuum (as per manufacturer's instructions) your smoke and CO alarms
Plan and hold regular family fire drills
Replace loose or frayed cords on all electrical devices
Avoid overloading outlets by using surge protectors
Plug only one high-wattage appliance into a receptacle at a time
If outlets or switches feel warm, shut off the circuit and have them checked by a licensed electrician
Borgess Lee Memorial Hospital recognizes another reason October is special. They are offering free mammograms to women without health insurance in October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
I lost one cousin to breast cancer when she turned 50 many years ago. Another on the other side of my family is going through treatment right now in Ireland. She is my age.
Breast cancer isn't a death sentence. Caught early, there is successful treatment.
Take the time to schedule an appointment today.
Last week I made an error. I was told the Field of Dreams was closing. It was just the Ghost Players who would no longer be having games in Dyersville, Iowa. The field is still open. Also, American Home Media produces A Prairie Home Companion, not NPR. Sorry.