Start thinking about safety now

Staying safe is always in order, but in a couple weeks watching for others will be even more important.

That’s right, school is almost out. Kids being kids will then be into summer fun mode and probably less cautious than usual without the rigid structure of school.

There will also be young people attending a workplace for the first time. This too can be exciting, but it goes without saying a prepared employee is a safe employee.

Many companies, after some very sad instances, have made it part of day one; reviewing safety aspects of the workplace. Parents or siblings can likely add some advice about what to ask and how to ensure the first summer job is as rewarding as it can be.

A couple of weeks ago we had a feature on fun summer camps for kids. Learning opportunities are always awesome and these events help keep kids engaged and off-line. Many will develop new skills and depending on the program, it will help as they tackle the next grades in school. Leaders are always a welcome addition to classes and activities down the road.

Some lucky families will try their hand at camping. This can be an excellent chance to experience nature and enjoy the outdoors, but there are inherent risks as well. A primer on safety with bears depending on where you go is helpful. Also, taking life jackets along for water safety is a must at any age.

As summer envelopes residents, let’s stay safe and make the most of holidays.

Take stock

An explosive issue is developing and will probably form part of the next election campaign.

Climate change, severe weather – whatever handle people feel comfortable using, our climate continues to be a state of flux.

Some parties have wholly embraced the concept of climate change, this past week supporting a resolution drafted by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna to declare climate change an emergency. The motion supported by all parties except the Conservatives is non-binding – so basically it is paying lip service to an issue many Canadians are justifiably concerned about.

Another area of resentment lately is the abandonment of single-use plastics, another issue we think will heat up on the campaign trail. It is easy to target such things, but, what is the net cost of abandoning these items and their purpose? Will goods, particularly food be harder to ship and take more effort than currently expended? These are questions we hope Canadians ask themselves before falling for pledged changes that aren’t all they are cracked up to be.

Take stock and monitor your weekly waste – that will certainly help make educated choices when concepts are proposed by all parties this fall.

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