Accidents often occur in the workplace. A recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Illnesses and Injuries revealed approximately 3 million non-fatal injuries and illnesses affected private industry workers and 722,000 impacted state and local government workers in 2014. 
There are various quick and efficient easy ways to improve office safety which include the following:
1. Focus on office safety. For example, if office chair breaks or a stairwell light goes out, employees should not hesitate to inform their employers. Employers should then act immediately to respond to workers’ on-the-job safety concerns.
2. Keep your office space clean. Dealing with a messy workplace negatively impacts all employees. If office staff members keep their workstations neat and tidy, employees can then reduce the risk of clutter in the workplace which may potentially results in falls, trips, and other on-the-job mishaps.
3. Provide workplace safety and health training. Education is an empowering tool for employees. If employers develop effective office safety training programs and update their programs consistently, employers can teach their employees methods to identify and address on-the-job crisis in an expedited manner.
4. Schedule regular employee meetings. Allow employees the opportunity to express their on-the-job safety concerns by scheduling monthly meetings. Workplace meetings can enable employers to share their progress as they strive to create safe, effective work environments designed to help workers become more productive.

Let's also not forget a few of the basic workplace safety tools which include the following:

A. Ergonomic Supplies: A regular office chair or desk may be insufficient, as either of these items may cause employees to suffer carpal tunnel and back and neck pain over time. The use of ergonomic supplies will allow an employer can help workers remain comfortable as they perform day-to-day tasks while minimizing the risk of long-term injuries.
B. Back Braces: Back braces should be available and used when the employee lifts heavy items. Not only do back braces allow employees to  lift heavy items with ease but they are also a sound preventative measure to avoid potential back or neck injuries.
C. Fire Alarm: How will workers know of a potential fire or fire hazard in the workplace? If a fire alarm is in place, workers can receive an instant notification at the first sign of a fire. In addition, the fire alarm should also be monitored to ensure proper operation and necessary maintenance.
D. Fire Extinguisher: Employees must act quickly to minimize the damage of a fire in the event it occurs. With a fire extinguisher in a common place, employees can work fast to diffuse a fire. Subsequently, employers should keep all fire extinguishers in locations that are easy to find and ensure all employees are knowledgeable of how to use the fire extinguisher.
E. First Aid Kit: The first aid kit should include cold packs, disinfectants, bandages and other first aid items. If an on-the-job accident occurs, employees can then use the tools available in the the first aid kit to provide immediate assistance until advanced medical personnel arrive on scene. It is also important to ensure that the first aid kit is replenished when items are used.
F. Flashlights: Flashlights are important in the workplace in the event of a power outage and/or an electrical storm. Flashlights allow employees to find one another, even in the dark. Employers also should have plenty of batteries on hand to ensure these flashlights will remain operational in blackouts and other emergencies.
G. Gloves: Safety hygiene and protocol is critical, particularly if employees are tasked with cleaning up a workspace mess that involves bodily fluids.
H. Ladders: Ladders and stepstools should be made available in the workplace to ensure employees can remain safe when they reach for normally inaccessible areas. While using a ladder or stepstool, an employee who climbs the rungs should work and communicate with a fellow employee who remains at the bottom of the ladder or stepstool.
I. Warning Signs: A wet bathroom or tiled area can be dangerous, and even a single misstep can lead to long-lasting harm. Warning signs are easy to set up and can be used to help workers identify trip and fall hazards.

Workplace safety can have long lasting effects on employees regardless of a company’s size, stature or industry. Employers that wish to enhance their current organizational safety and wellness plans can provide on-the-job safety training which should include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training.
To learn more about CPR and First Aid training for your workplace contact us at 210-380-5344.

"Can you tell me if I'm signing up for the right class?" That's a question we hear often at Help-A-Heart CPR. Due to various professions, work environments, and state licensing regulations, it can be confusing understanding the CPR class you need to take to satisfy all of the necessary requirements.
WHAT IS BLS?
BLS stands for "Basic Life Support", and is the basic CPR course for most professionals in the healthcare environment. The CPR protocol covered in the American Heart Association BLS class are applicable to all critical medical situations. Basic Life Support is just that. The basic CPR skills of compressions are reviewed as well as breathing, and AED use, for both one-rescuer and multi-rescuer situations. Modifications to these procedures that are not covered in lay rescuer CPR training include administering pulse checks, using bag valve masks (BVMs), CPR in the presence of an advanced airway, and addressing the various issues having to do with team dynamics.
WHO MIGHT NEED TO TAKE BLS?
Healthcare providers and/or those entering the healthcare industry are the students most often seeking the BLS CPR class. For the majority of healthcare professionals, basic life support training is a necessity. Since the few moments following a medical crisis are so critical, often meaning the difference between life and death, anyone charged with caring for patients must be prepared in the event of a life-threatening emergency. Some of the professions most often needing BLS include nurses, physicians, EMT's, paramedics, pharmacists, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, medical students, nursing students, nutritionists, dietary aides, and mental health counselors.
In the U.S., there’s an American Heart Association-mandated protocol for the immediate treatment of critical events that must be closely followed by anyone licensed to practice medicine in any form. It is the responsibility of all those responsible for treating the public, to also renewal their BLS certification every two years. In addition, with periodic changes being made to the guidelines, timely renewal is also mandatory.
BLS CLASS OPTIONS
For newly licensed healthcare providers, we offer BLS certification classes that strictly follow the AHA guidelines for immediate, on-site treatment of life-threatening medical emergencies. The class curriculum includes training in adult, child, and infant CPR; conscious and unconscious choking protocols for all ages; Automated External Defibrillator (AED) operation; the employment of breathing barriers and bag valve masks; two-rescuer CPR instruction; cardiopulmonary emergency protocol; and special resuscitation situations. Upon successful completion of the course, students will achieve AHA BLS certification and be ready to pursue their medical career possessing the skills they need to save lives in an emergency situation.
With the specific needs of our students in mind, we also offer BLS certification classes in two other forms: one designed for those already deeply familiar with the protocols and simply looking to BLS renewal classes, and one blended learning program that takes into account the often hectic schedules of medical professionals. The Heartcode BLS certification involves the blended learning option and allows students to complete the online course and didactic portion at their own convenience. The students is then able to schedule the hands-on skills testing which typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes.
WHAT IS THE HANDS-ON BLS CLASS LIKE?
The American Heart Association BLS Provider class involves extensive hands-on practice. The intent is to reinforce the basic skills of healthcare provider CPR in an environment that is focused on learning while being supportive, structured, and supervised by an experienced BLS instructor. The face-to-face BLS CPR classes at Help-A-Heart CPR optimize skills development which allow for effective review, reinforcement, and when required, correction and modification. Whether you are seeking a BLS Renewal class or will be taking BLS for the first time, our classroom training will empower you with the skills to administer CPR effectively and with confidence. In addition, if you are continuing your training with the American Heart Association ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification, the skills you learn and develop in BLS will help you as proceed to gain the ACLS certification.
With the best resources in the field and a history of excellence, Help-A-Heart CPR represents the very finest in emergency education. Our courses are taught only by acknowledged experts in their fields with real world experience in the on-site treatment of medical emergencies. Our goal at Help-A-Heart CPR is to empower students and provide educational materials designed to make the learning experience as smooth and effective as possible. In our BLS CPR classes, we maintain a one-to-one manikin-to-student ratio to ensure that students are able to practice techniques effectively and at sufficient length. We’re proud to offer the best in life-saving training.

Safety hazards occur in every home despite the size of the home or even the location. However, there are certain things that can be done to help identify and address household safety hazards before they escalate.
The following are 5 common household safety hazards, along with tips to reduce or eliminate these issues.

1. Fires.                                                                                                According to the National Fire Protection Association, a U.S. fire department responds to a fire every 24 seconds. Various hazards such as a candle and/or flammable material close to a stove may increase the risk of a fire in the home. A preventative measure includes Installing fire alarms on all levels of a home and checking the alarms’ batteries at least once a year. In addition, purchasing a fire extinguisher and learning how to use the device is also an important preparedness skill.
2. Choking.                                                                                              The National Safety Council indicated that choking was the fourth-leading cause of unintentional death in the United States in 2017. A household choking emergency can be a random occurrence However, there are several techniques that can be performed to assist choking victims. First, the Heimlich maneuver can be used to help prevent a choking victim from suffocating. Second, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training classes can also be taken which provide individuals with the skills and knowledge to administer CPR and other life-saving techniques to conscious and unconscious choking victims.
3. Drowning.                                                                                                      74% of drowning incidents for children younger than 15 between 2015 and 2017 occurred in residential locations according to the National Safety Council. Unfortunately, drowning is a household hazard that often occurs during bath time for young children. To eliminate this risk, watch a child closely and never leave a bathtub that has a child in it unattended during bath time. Also, you should fill a bathtub with only a few inches of water.
4. Burns.                                                                                          Dishwashers and stoves are the primary culprits behind household burns. Subsequently, it is critical that a dishwasher is latched securely during use. Additionally, it may be extremely helpful to pick up a dishwasher appliance lock to prevent a child from opening a dishwasher when it is being used. In regards to stove safety, it is important to use a stove’s back burners any time you can. Using a stove's back burner's can make it difficult for a child to reach a hot stovetop. Lastly, installing stove knob covers can also help prevent a child from inadvertently turning on a stove.
5. Carbon Monoxide.                                                                                    The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention reported that every year, at least 430 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning. In addition, approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning. Even minimal exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) in a home may result in dizziness and severe headaches. However, with a carbon monoxide detector in place the homeowner can be alerted if the CO reaches a dangerous level. Lastly, it is also important to maintain the home’s heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC), gas, oil and other systems that otherwise could leak CO.

​As indicated by this list, there are numerous household safety hazards as the five listed are just a few. However, with proper preparation, knowledge, and awareness, homeowners can take adequate steps for prevention.

Healthcare providers are required to participate in pediatric advanced life support (PALS) training and have often trained in pediatric emergency assessment, recognition and stabilization (PEARS). However, most often parents and caregivers have not experienced this advanced level of training.
Deciding how to care for the new infant is often met with so many "unknowns" for new parents. A common fear of parents and caregivers is how to recognize if your infant child is choking.
Since infants make lots of different sounds but can't verbalize what they are experiencing, it can be difficult to tell when a noise is a sign of an emergency. However there are a few signs to look for to determine if your infant is indeed choking and especially when eating. If you recognize any of the following then seek emergency assistance immediately by calling 911.

1. The infant’s face gets darker or develops a blue tinge.
2. The infant cries, but there is no sound.
3. The infant begins to flail or thrash around.
4. The infant has to make an effort to breathe.

Here are five tips to help you deliver first aid to a choking infant:
​1. Assess the situation. If a infant is unable to cry or cough, something may be blocking his or her airway. If the infant is coughing or gagging, the baby’s airway may only be partially blocked. If this is occurring, you should continue to let the baby cough in the hopes of dislodging the object.
2. Call 911. If you’re unsure about how to handle a choking infant, you should call 911 or have a friend or family member call 911 for you. The quicker you call 911, the quicker the infant can get the support that he or she needs to survive.
3. Use back blows. To administer back blows, place the infant face-up on one forearm and cradle the back of the head with the same hand. Then, place the other hand and forearm on the infant's front, use your fingers and thumb to hold open the infant's jaw and turn the infant over face-down on your forearm. With the heel of your hand, deliver five firm back blows between the infant's shoulder blades.
4. Perform chest thrusts. To perform chest thrusts, you should place your thumb and fingers to hold a infant's jaw open and keep the infant between your forearms to ensure maximum head and neck support. Next, place the tips of two or three fingers in the center of the infant's chest and push straight down on the chest approximately 1.5 inches. Administer five chest thrusts, and allow the chest to come back to its normal position after each thrust.
5. Repeat 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until the object is removed or EMS arrives.

​Infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the next step to assist a choking infant if the infant becomes unresponsive. Here are three steps to follow to effectively administer infant CPR:

​1. Determine whether a infant is unresponsive and not breathing. Tap the bottom of a baby’s foot and check for normal breathing. Call 911 immediately if the infant is not responsive.
2. Give chest compressions. Place one hand on the infant's forehead and two fingers on the center of the infan't chest. Then compress the chest by pushing straight down about 1.5 inches. Perform up to 30 compressions at a rate of one to two compressions per second and approximately 100-120 compressions per minute.
3. Give rescue breaths. Place one hand on the infant's forehead and two fingers on the chin and tilt the head back to a neutral position. Give the infant 2 light "puffs" of air by blowing into the infant's nose and mouth for about one second giving enough air to see the chest slighly rise.
CPR and First Aid classes are ideal for parents and caregivers who need the skills and confidence needed to recognize signs of an emergency and then provide assistance until emergency personnel arrive. Our CPR and First Aid classes at Help-A-Heart CPR allow parents to practice CPR techniques and use the AED while collaborating with other students and instructors on best practices.
To find out more information on our class schedule at Help-A-Heart CPR, give us a call at 210-380-5344.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year. Allergies are caused by an overactive immune system. Various reactions to allergies can occur due to bee stings, spending time around house pets, increasing pollen in the air and spending more time outside, or simply consuming peanuts. However, no matter how severe the allergic reaction, it is critical to address the problem as quickly as possible.
The first step in handling an allergic reaction is identifying symptoms and understanding any predispositions that an individual may have towards certain allergens. With this information and within the First Aid classes we provide at Help-A-Heart CPR, we will provide you with everything you need to know to properly handle an allergic reaction. Gain the necessary knowledge to stay safe in the face of allergies with our information below and gain the experience to turn your knowledge into action by enrolling in our Basic First Aid course. 
WHAT CAUSES ALLERGIC REACTIONS?
The allergic reaction is synergy of an allergen and the body’s response to it. There are three primary types of allergies. The first are ingested allergies, which occur only when an allergen is ingested orally or intravenously. A few common allergens in this category include peanuts, eggs, gluten, certain types of fruit, and some medications, including penicillin. The second are contact allergies, which occur when an allergen comes into contact with the skin and causes swelling or irritation. A few common allergens in this category include soaps, detergents, hair dye, and latex. The final and most widespread type of allergies are inhaled allergies, which occur when an individual breathes in an allergen. Common allergens in this category include pollen and pet dander.
WHAT IS AN ALLERGIC REACTION?
The allergic reaction or the “overreaction” is essentially an overproduction of proteins called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which the body uses to try to suppress the allergen. When combined with the allergen itself, these antibodies then create histamine. Histamine is the substance responsible for the wide range of symptoms that can occur in body when an allergic reaction occurs. These symptoms include:
A. Itching on the affected area or over the entire body
B. A red or raised rash on the affected area or over the entire body
C. Hives (large, pink bumps or swollen areas)
D. Sneezing and watery eyes
E. A runny nose
F. Swelling in the mouth or throat
G.Difficulty breathing or rapid breaths
H. Nausea or diarrhea
I. Drowsiness
In certain situations, multiple sites in the body can be effected at once. This is known as anaphylaxis and can result in anaphylactic shock if the individual is not treated immediately. Individuals experiencing anaphylactic shock may also become dizzy or lose consciousness. The symptoms of anaphylaxis may often begin 5 to 30 minutes after contact with an allergen or as long as an hour. Some individuals with known allergies, asthma, or a family history of anaphylaxis are at an increased risk of anaphylaxis. In addition, those individuals who may have previously experienced anaphylaxis also have a higher chance of anaphylactic reaction. If you suspect an anaphylactic reaction, address it quickly with the medication prescribed by your physician (usually Epinephrine and/or Benadryl) and an immediate visit to a doctor’s office.
GET PREPARED: GET CERTIFIED
Do you to learn more about allergies and what to do when someone experiences an allergic reaction? Ready to learn the skills necessary to address allergic reactions and other bodily emergencies? Get prepared and get certified with Help-A-Heart CPR's Basic First Aid course. Led by the industry’s top instructors, our Basic First Aid course will give you everything you need to know to provide first aid to allergic reactions, injuries, and other trauma. Click the link above for more information about this course and other American Heart Association CPR classes. Explore our website to learn more about the many emergency response courses we offer including CPR certification online, and enroll with our team at Help-A-Heart CPR today!

Perhaps you've taken a CPR class and know that an AED is an acronym that stands for Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Regardless of what you know about AED's, here are a few additional things about AED's that may one day save your life.

An AED is a portable, lightweight device that administers an electric shock to a person whose heart ventricles have stopped pumping blood to the rest of the body. AEDS are reliable and versatile and are designed to be used by anyone, regardless of experience. 

1. AEDs are not dangerous for a bystander rescuer or healthcare provider to use. As an AED sends a shock through a person to get the ventricles pumping again, many assume that this shock is powerful enough to be deadly. While the shock that an AED administers, may not be dangerous, it’s still important to make sure that everything and everyone is clear of the victim when the shock is given.  

2. You are not at risk of being sued for using an AED on a victim. AEDs are extremely safe. There has yet to be any documented cases of a person being injured by an AED. If you have to use an AED on someone that you do not know, this means you are highly unlikely to cause any harm and no lawsuit will be coming your way. In addition, the Good Samaritan Laws here in Texas protect a responder who is acting in good faith trying to save someone. However, in the event of an emergency that requires the use of an AED, the one thing you should always look out for is a “Do Not Resuscitate” bracelet or necklace.

3. Using an AED is much more effective than just doing CPR without an AED. If you notice that a person's heart has stopped pumping and you are unsure whether to use an AED with CPR or to just use CPR, it is important to consider the rates of survival. When a first responder only used chest compression CPR, after 30 days the survival rate for victims is sadly only 7%. But, augmenting the CPR with AED shocks leads to a 40.7% survival rate one month later for victims. Subsequently, AED's do work. 

4. Keep AED pads away from body piercings. Metals are conductors of electricity.  If a victim in need of an AED shock has metal jewelry on his or her body nipple rings) in places where the AED pads need to go, do not put the AED pads over the metal rings. In most cases, care providers suggest moving the pads an inch away from the metal to perform AED treatment. In rare cases, removing the metal jewelry entirely to properly defibrillate may be necessary.
​
5. The adult AED pads may be used on children and infants. While AEDs are meant to return hearts to their normal beating patterns; in some situations, they can even restart a stopped heart. In these cases, AEDs are quite literally bringing people back to life. If you are on the fence about using an adult AED on a child, toddler, or infant, know that if you elect not to use it, that young person is still going to be dead. As experts recommend, strongly consider using an adult AED on child victims. There are directions to how to do defibrillate for children, infants, and toddlers on all AED kits. With the proper protocol, you will not harm the child, and you will likely be saving a life.

Learning about AED's provides a solid foundation for everyone. However, the use of the AED should be regularly reviewed and practiced. Taking an AED, CPR, and First-Aid class led by a trained professional is the best the way to ensure that you’ll know exactly how to use an AED in the event of an emergency.
To learn how to use an AED and administer emergency care to an individual in cardiac arrest, there are several options available. Help-A- Heart CPR offers CPR, AED, and First Aid classes, which cover protocol for basic emergency-response treatments. If you are familiar with the CPR and first aid, you may want to consider taking a Basic Life Support (BLS) class, where you’ll learn advanced emergency response techniques in these areas as well as AED operation.

Now is a wonderful time to learn or renew your American Heart Association CPR certification. Healthcare facilities are struggling with high patient volume while implementing social distancing and trying to stop the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Fortunately, it is possible to renew your certification during quarantine in the comfort of your home. Whether it be BLS, ACLS, and/or PALS certification, we have alternative options for you including our blended learning and hybrid options.

​Advanced Cardiac Life Support (or ACLS for short) is a certification course that builds upon the foundation established by the BLS course. The ACLS courses review the recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest, recognition and early management of peri-arrest conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia, airway management, pharmacology, management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and stroke, and effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team.
The ACLS courses are designed specifically for medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, anesthesiologists, dentists, and more. The American Heart Association (AHA) ACLS certifications last for 2 years and are easy to renew.
Here at Help-A-Heart CPR, we are proud to provide an Online ACLS Renewal Course with skills check to help medical professionals renew their ACLS certifications without the time constraint of sitting through an entire face-to-face course. This course requires participants to complete a series of self-paced online training modules that can take anywhere from 4 hours to 8 hours, depending on experience. Next, participants must complete a short skills test which lasts anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour in order to earn a renewal for their ACLS certifications. The first portion is can be completed from the comfort of your home, and the second portion is conducted in a sterile and yet friendly environment for medical professionals looking to stay safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR course teaches student's the administration of CPR to adults, children, and infants, the operation of AEDs, assisting choking victims, and using breathing barriers and bag valve masks. The BLS certification is required for all medical care providers and first responders. The BLS certification is valid for 2 years but is easy to renew.

For those with an expired BLS certification card or a BLS card that will soon expire, our team here at Help-A-Heart CPR offers an Online BLS Renewal Course with skills check. This course requires participants to complete several self-paced online training modules that can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2:30 hours to complete. Next, participants must complete a short skills test at our facility to be awarded a BLS certification renewal. This option is wonderful for healthcare providers with busy schedules and those looking to maintain safe social distances during quarantine. Again, the first half of the BLS renewal course can be completed from the comfort of a home computer. The second part takes place in a clean training environment with an experienced emergency response professional.

The Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification is a course created by the American Heart Association that teaches students how to administer life-saving care to infants and children. The PALS course teaches a systematic approach to Pediatric Assessment while helping students learn proper management of pediatric respiratory emergencies, safe vascular access, effective airway management, pharmacology, BLS for children, and more. PALS courses are a requirement for healthcare providers who provide medical assistance to infants and/or children in medical emergencies. The PALS certification lasts 2 years and can be renewed easily without the need for a re-enrollment in an initial PALS certification course.
Our goal is to make it easy for emergency childcare professionals to renew their PALS certifications. Subsequently, our team here at Help-A-Heart CPR offers an Online PALS Renewal Course with skills check. Similar to the other renewal courses covered above, the PALS renewal course is completed in two sections. The first section includes a series of self-paced online training modules that participants can complete in anywhere from 4 hours to 9 hours, depending on experience. The second section involves a short skills test which lasts anywhere from 45 minutes to 1:30 hours that must be completed at a Help-A-Heart facility in order for students to received their PALS certification and e-card. Just like the ACLS and BLS Online Renewal Courses, the online portion of the PALS renewal course can be completed a your leisure and in the luxury of your own home.

​Due to COVID-19, having essential emergency-response skills like CPR can provide the skills to allow medical professionals and laymen rescuers to save lives. Here at Help-A-Heart CPR, we make it easy. Our renewal courses are completed mostly online, with only a short skills test conducted on-site at our training facility. There, you will receive 1-on-1 proctoring from one of our highly-skilled safety professionals. With the completion of ACLS, BLS, or PALS skills testing and certification class you will also receive continuing education units to help with your professional license renewal requirements.
So, why choose us for your ACLS, BLS, and/or PALS renewal and certification? First, we have some of the finest staff in the emergency response industry. This has helped create effective and engaging renewal courses that really work. With us, you gain skills that stick with you. Based in South Texas, we are fully endorsed by the American Heart Association (AHA), the American Red Cross (ARC), and the American Safety Health Institute (ASHI). Committed to excellence and empowering individuals with extensive knowledge, we’ve helped further the careers of numerous healthcare providers and countless civilians across our South Texas community. Ready to take action? Contact our team to learn more about our award-winning courses and enroll with us. 

As a parent, you want to ensure that your child is receiving optimal care when you are away. A babysitter background check can provide the comfort that you need along with that added assurance that you have hired the right person.

How does the background check work?
The background check provides so much more than an employment or credit check. The background check provides the following:
Identity Verification: To run a babysitter background check, the babysitter’s full name, social security number and driver’s license number is needed to confirm his or her identity. If a babysitter is not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need his or her passport number and work permit for identity verification.
Criminal Records: The criminal records check allow you to review a babysitter’s history of arrests, misdemeanor and felony convictions and and incarcerations. CriminalWatchDog recommends obtaining the babysitter’s address history for the past seven years as this additional information will help determine if a state or national criminal records check is necessary.
Driving Records: The local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can provide a copy the babysitter's driving records. These records will reflect the babysitter’s history of traffic and speeding tickets and other driving violations.
Sex Offender Registry: The U.S. Department of Justice maintains a public access file which provides information on sex offender data nationwide. The history of sexual abuse or crimes of a potential babysitter, if applicable, can be located here.
Child Abuse and Neglect Records:  The child abuse and neglect records of every state is different. Further, state laws vary relative to child abuse and neglect records disclosure. Contact your local child protective services department to find out if you are able to screen a babysitter for past child abuse and neglect.

Babysitter Hiring Hints.
Use a Babysitter Service.
Care.com, UrbanSitter and other online services can allow you to quickly screen potential babysitters in your local area. Theses services also perform babysitter background checks and provide you with the opportunity to meet with a babysitter before you finalize your hiring decision. To determine if an online babysitter search service fulfills your needs, find out how the service works and read client reviews.
Conduct an Initial Babysitter Interview.
A face-to-face meeting is a must if you feel that a candidate is a good fit. This meeting allows you to speak directly to a potential babysitter, learn about his or her background and expertise and receive responses (face-to-face) regarding any concerns or questions. This face-to-face interview also provides the  babysitter with a a chance to ask you questions and determine if this relationship is a good fit for both parties.
Learn about a babysitter’s basic first aid and CPR expertise
It is vital that a potential babysitter is prepared for all emergencies including a cardiac emergency. Ask a babysitter if he or she has received basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. Then, find out how he or she may respond to pediatric cardiac emergencies.
Babysitter background checks frequently help a parent differentiate an ordinary babysitter from an exceptional one. If you conduct a comprehensive babysitter background check, you can receive insights into a babysitter’s background that you are unlikely to obtain elsewhere. Best of all, a babysitter background check can help you make an informed babysitter hiring decision that both you and your child can enjoy for years to come.​

Now that summer is here, it can be a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. However, there is also the risk of injuries and accidents and other immediate and long-lasting health problems.
There are many things you can do to stay safe during the summer. Let’s look at three dangers that are often present in the summer, along with tips to address these issues.

HEAT EXHAUSTION
Heat exhaustion can occur when the body gets too hot, and is related to excessive exposure to high temperatures and humidity and intense physical activity. A few heat exhaustion symptoms include:

• Faintness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea

If heat exhaustion is left untreated, it may lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. Fortunately, there are various precautions you can take to prevent heat exhaustion. These precautions include:

• Staying hydrated. Drink lots of water to help your body maintain a normal temperature.
• Applying sunscreen. Use a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher to protect your skin against sunburns that otherwise may lead to heat exhaustion. You also should reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours.
• Wearing lightweight clothing. Loose-fitting and lightweight apparel that contain cotton will help you keep your body cool.
• Resting frequently. Avoid strenuous activity and take regular breaks in cool spots.
• In the event of a heat exhaustion emergency, try not to panic. Instead, stop all activity, rest, move to a cool place and consume cool water. If heat exhaustion symptoms continue, call 9-1-1, contact your physician, or go to the nearest emergency room.

DEHYDRATION
Dehydration can happen when the body doesn't get enough water. There are many physical symptoms associated with dehydration. These symptoms often include:

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Vomiting

Recent research indicates approximately 75% of Americans suffer from chronic dehydration, according to Medical Daily. Without the proper amount of water, the body cannot effectively digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. And as a result, those who are dealing with chronic dehydration may experience long-term fatigue, joint pain and other health problems.

Extreme heat makes people more susceptible to dehydration during summer, but there are several things you can do to limit the risk of dehydration. These preventative measures include:

• Carrying a reusable water bottle. Take a reusable water bottle with you everywhere you go and refill the bottle throughout the day; that way, you can stay hydrated at all times.
• Wearing the right clothing and accessories. Light-colored clothing is less likely to absorb heat than dark-colored apparel. Also, a hat and sunglasses will help you remain cool and comfortable outdoors.
• Eating the right foods. Consume fruits, vegetables and other foods that are easy to digest and high in water content.
• Taking a break. The sun reaches its peak between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. so you may want to take a break from outdoor summer activities during this time frame.

Dehydration can affect anyone, at any time and most often in the summer. However, if your prepare accordingly, you can avoid mild, moderate and severe dehydration symptoms.

Unintentional drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death in the United States. Approximately 10 people die from unintentional drowning every day, CDC reports. Among these people, two are age 14 or younger.

Understanding the risks associated with unintentional drowning is imperative. If you intend to swim at a beach or pool this summer, there are a few things you can do to prevent unintentional drowning emergencies. These preventative measures include:

• Choosing the right life jacket. Pick up a life jacket that will enable you to keep your head above water and breathe while swimming. A life jacket should provide a snug fit and be tested for wear and buoyancy at least once a year.
• Using the buddy system. Never swim alone; swim with a friend, family member or any other buddy. Whenever possible, you should swim at a beach or pool that has a lifeguard on duty, as well.
• Signing up for swimming lessons. Swimming lessons are available for kids and adults and teach students how to swim safely.
• Avoiding the consumption of alcohol. You should never drink alcohol before or during swimming; without exception.
• Viewing the weather. High winds and other inclement weather can quickly change swim conditions. Consequently, it is important to take a look at the weather forecast before you go to a beach or pool.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training allows anyone, regardless of age, to reduce the loss of life in drowning emergencies. A CPR class teaches individuals what to life-threatening situations including drownings. Additionally, a CPR class usually just takes a few hours to complete and enables students to earn a CPR certification card that remains valid for two years.
There are many summer dangers to consider and we've only discussed three. If you prepare for summer dangers, you can stay safe during camping trips, trips to the pool, and other outdoor activities. First and foremost, you can be better prepared to enjoy a healthy and active summer participating in your favorite summer activities.

With summer right around the corner, summer emergencies sometimes happen. However, there are several things that you can do that are precautionary and just may save your life.

1.  Wear A Bike Helmet

Whether you’re planning a bike ride for relaxation or a strenuous trek along mountain bike trails, wearing a bike helmet should be mandatory. To better understand the importance of wearing a bike helmet, let’s explore the following statistics from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA):

• Up to 80% of all fatal bike crashes involve head injuries, yet only 18% of bicyclists wear bike helmets.
• Universal bicycle helmet use for kids between the ages of 4 and 15 years old would prevent up to 45,000 head injuries and 55,000 scalp and face injuries each year.
• Bike helmets are up to 88% effective in mitigating head and brain injuries.

     2.  Swim Safely
Safe swimming is paramount. The American Red Cross offers recommendations to ensure you can stay safe when you swim at a beach or swimming pool, and these include:

• Swim in Designated Areas Only: Swim only in areas where a lifeguard is on duty.
• Use the Buddy System: Never swim alone; instead, you should swim with a buddy at all times.

     3. Preparation for Camping
Camping is an excellent way to get outside and enjoy the outdoors with family members and friends. If you decide to go camping this summer, there are many ways to protect yourself against injuries and diseases, such as:

• Get Vaccinated: Visit your doctor so you can ensure you are up to date on all of your vaccines.

• Pick Up Protective Gear: A helmet, sturdy shoes and a life jacket are camping essentials.
• Avoid Wild Animals: Never feed, touch or get near wild animals while camping.
• Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent that contains DEET to combat mosquitoes, ticks and other insects that may cause diseases.

     4. Sign Up for Emergency Training Classes
Having the ability to administer first aid during an emergency is crucial. If you have the skills and knowledge to support an individual who is drowning, experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or suffering from any other illness or condition, you could prevent the loss of life in an emergency.
Many emergency training classes are available, and these include:

• Basic First Aid: A basic first aid class covers a wide range of topics, including how to provide assistance in hot and cold emergencies and how to treat wounds and other injuries.
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): A CPR class teaches students how to perform CPR on adults, kids and infants, assist conscious and unconscious choking victims, use an automated external defibrillator (AED) and provide immediate first aid in emergencies.

You never know when an emergency may occur. But with comprehensive emergency training and safety tips, anyone can become a life-saver in any emergency, at any time.
For those who want to earn basic first aid, CPR or other emergency training certifications, classes from Help-A-Heart CPR are the perfect skill-set to prepare for your summer. Help-A-Heart CPR offers a variety of emergency training courses, all of which blend hands-on and classroom lessons and are taught by expert instructors. To find out more about our emergency training classes, please contact us today at (210) 380-5344.