• Cases are down across the US since the peak of the delta variant in September
• Daily new cases averaged 173,000 in mid-September
• As of October 28^th, average new cases are 73,000 daily
• By September 21, 2021, an estimated 182 million persons in the United States were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (Source: CDC.gov)
• However, daily vaccination rates have declined approximately 78% since April 13, 2021
• The CDC recommends keeping masking in place as winter approaches and cases go up
• Business and schools can promote the wearing of masks with professional signage

How Businesses and Schools are Using Mask Required Signs

Source: Pinterest

Getting creative: Some organizations come up with their own phrases and ideas for mask required signs, or create custom signs that pop! Check out this mask sign with a bold message and bright colors. ?Please wear your mask, it?s an easy task.?

Source: Pinterest

There are other ways to make mask signs more heartfelt, such as this ?Wearing is caring? mask.

Being funny: Some organizations take their chance to show some snark. Check out these two bold mask signs:

[gallery type="columns" columns="2" size="medium" ids="4194,4193"]

From CustomSigns.com: Click to Shop

Staying stern: Most businesses keep their mask required signs professional and straightforward, opting to display simple messages like ?No mask, no entry? or ?STOP! Face mask required.?

Three Reasons Mask Required Signs are Beneficial

As you visit businesses across your city, you may notice many have used handwritten signs. Investing in a durable plastic or metal sign will show customers you take their health and safety seriously. Wear a mask signs will also last longer and will not be easily removed by disgruntled customers. Here are a few benefits of displaying a real face mask required sign:

1. Customers can see that you mean business
2. Disgruntled customers can?t easily remove your sign
3. Plastic and metal signs can be displayed indoors and outdoors

Organizations that are Stricter on Wearing Face Masks

• Government buildings such as DMVs and courthouses
• Post offices
• Dentist offices
• Doctor?s offices
• Schools and daycares

Types of Signs

At CustomSigns.com you can find several designs in mask signs, featuring:

• Notice Face Mask Required Signs
• There's a Smile Behind My Mask Signs
• No Mask No Entry Signs
• Please Wear A Face Mask Signs

Custom Sign Options

If you do not see a mask sign that fits your needs, design your own! CustomSigns.com offers plastic, vinyl, aluminum, brass and acrylic signs in many options. Add custom text, images, graphics, logos and more to your sign to personalize it to your organization.

Customization options include engraving and UV printing, and we have a range of hanging styles readily available including pins, hooks, screws, and more.

As businesses, particularly retail stores and shipping facilities, get ready for the busy holiday season, and the expected rise in COVID cases, make sure you?re ready! Post custom signs inside and outside your building to let customers know you are doing your part to reduce the spread!

Sources:

CDC.gov

AP News

ABC News 7

Pinterest

Many parents and educators fear the risk of depriving children of in-person instruction, as research shows that children experience learning loss, depression, anxiety and other symptoms as a result of lock down. Other educators and parents would rather continue distance learning to avoid the potential spread of coronavirus, and may have immunocompromised or elderly family members at home. There is no one size fits all answer to whether children should be back in the classroom.

Source: USA Today

While the debate continues across the US, some schools have taken an educational and lighthearted approach to social distancing. To combine the best of in-person learning AND COVID safety, a school in Ithaca, New York, for example, is using educational floor decals to keep kids at a safe distance.

Check out these creative floor decals being used by a school in Ithaca, New York:

There are many safety procedures being taken to fight the spread of COVID-19.

Schools are implementing safety procedures such as:

• Designating small groups of students who stay together throughout the day
• These designated groups take recess and eat lunch together
• Avoiding communal gathering in large groups
• Planning a hybrid approach to learning (groups of students take turns learning remotely when possible)
• Arranging instructional spaces so that students have distance between one another, and from the teacher
• Requiring students to wash their hands several times per day on a set schedule, and using hand stamps to encourage hand washing
• Requiring students to wear masks on buses, in halls and in communal areas
• Designating a COVID response team or person. This person or group will handle coronavirus concerns and create a plan of action to prevent spread
• Read the full article at EdWeek.org

There are also many ways to make COVID safety procedures educational, and helpful tips for teaching students of all ages about coronavirus. Whether you have chosen to send your kids back to school or you're continuing distance learning, there are measures we can all take to stay safe.

If you have a creative idea, or a unique sign in your home, office, or school, share it with us at @customsignsco on Instagram!

Other blogs you might like:

Creative 2020 Graduation Ceremonies

Signs Everyone Needs after the Pandemic

USA Today: Should I Send My Kid Back to School?

Shop new social distancing signs now

COVID-19?has created a new way of living, and it's likely to be the new norm even after initial fears of coronavirus?infection have faded. Residences and businesses have access to new?signage?designed to help reinforce?social distancing, and control the?spread of?COVID-19. Whether you have a high-risk person in your household, or you are keeping your business afloat during the?pandemic, you can find signs to remind others to keep a?proper?social distance.

Business Signs for?Social Distancing

Most businesses, particularly small?local businesses?across the US, are doing everything they can to stay afloat and to follow guidelines from the?Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Make sure you have?signage?in place that lets your customers know you are open for business, and that you are following?CDC?guidelines.

Keep your business running during quarantine and?social distancing with:

• Yes, We?re Open for Business Signs
• We?re Practicing?Social Distancing?Signs
• Wash Your Hands Signs
• Take-Out?and Curbside Signs
• Do the Five Signs

Once the US is operating normally again, businesses and individuals will still be on high alert, and keenly aware of the danger of infectious disease. It is pertinent to adopt new procedures and ensure that your staff and customers follow them. Get the signs you need to let customers know you are practicing newly adopted rules and expectations in a post-COVID-19?world.

Also make sure your customers have easy access to the information they need about your business. Make sure your?signage?is current and that it reflects your latest hours, procedures, new?delivery services?and rules.

Every small business or restaurant should post updated signs for their:

• Hours of Operation (Include?Peak Hours)
• Accepted Payment Methods
• Drive up or Walk in Rules
• Food Delivery?Rules, Locations or Limits

It is also important to post updated?signage?that will set customers at ease once restaurants and ?non-essential? businesses are open.

Get ready to welcome customers and shoppers back by posting updated signs for:

• Wash Your Hands
• ADA Compliance
• Restrooms
• Stairs and Fire Exits
• Shop all Business Signs Now!

Or Shop Signs for:

Restrooms | ADA Braille | Parking | Payment Decals

Residential?COVID-19?Safety Signs and?Social Distancing?Signs

Delivery of groceries,?take-out, gifts and everyday essentials is a popular convenience that many people enjoy, and it continues to grow in popularity. Amazon?s two day delivery is the standard these days. Modern consumers have grown to expect quick, fast delivery to their front door. This likely will not change, but will become more common as people adapt to life after the?coronavirus?outbreak. Households with high risk family members can protect themselves from exposure to illnesses by posting signs such as:

• ?Someone in this House Has a Weakened Immune System?
• Reminders to Leave Deliveries at the Door
• No Soliciting
• Practice?Social Distancing
• No Trespassing

Lighten the Mood with Decorative Signs for Home or Business

As post-pandemic?messaging becomes standard, businesses and home owners will be placing these signs in plain sight. You can maintain your home or business aesthetic with required?signage. Decorative signs include engraved wood, brass and plastic. You can even carve out a personal space at home with she shed and man cave signs. Create your own sign to include any message you want! Make it funny or inspirational.

Decorative signs are available for homes, businesses and cars.

Shop: She Shed | Man Cave | License Plates | Street Signs | Address Signs | Funny Signs

Healthcare?workers, the government, and everyday people are navigating unfamiliar territory.?New York?City residents who use?public transportation?daily, along with teachers, workers in elderly?care facilities,?childcare?facilities and so many other professions and walks of life will undoubtedly take stronger measures against potential future outbreaks.

Everyone can do their part in flattening the curve, and preparing for the return to school, work, and everyday life. Remember to do the five!

Maintaining Workplace Safety for 2020

Table of Contents
Injury Statistics
Annual Review
?Equipment
?Fire Safety
?First Aid Supplies
?Update Signage
Safety Training
?Costs
?What Signs Mean

What better time to update your business's safety standards than the start of a new year?

2020 is here. When was the last time you audited your safety requirements? The importance of followingOSHA regulations cannot be understated. So, as you move into the new year, ensure your workplace stays up-to-date on all safety standards.

To start, what is the number of people injured on the job?

Workplace Injury Statistics

As with most studies, the figures and statistics can vary.

The number of on the job injuries varies depending on your business's sector. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states over 2.8 million cases of nonfatal workplace injury or illness in 2018. The highest recorded being Healthcare, Retail, and Manufacturing. It should be noted that this statistic covers private sectors. The total across all sectors was roughly over 3.4 million cases.

TheNational Safety Council (NSC) estimates that number to be even higher. According to theNSC, a workplace injury happens every seven seconds which approximates to 4.6 million injuries each year.

Here is an infographic from theNSC illustrating their findings:

Provided by The National Safety Council

Review your workplace. What can you update to improve safety within your organization?

A Year in Safety

The end of the year is a great time for you to reflect on your current safety standards.

• What worked?
• What didn't work?
• Are there gaps in your training?
• Have there been OSHA updates that affect your business?
• How much did your company pay out for safety violations or worker's compensation?
• Are your signs faded or broken and need replacing?

Gather as much information as you can and update your safety regulations. Work with your administrative level employees as well as the rest of your work force. Audit your high traffic areas and work zones to ensure compliance with national safety standards. Ensure your workplace follows fire safety procedures. Replace safety signs that may be difficult to read.

Check Your Equipment

Ensure your equipment is functioning properly. Much like how a dull knife is more dangerous than a sharp one, if your equipment or tools aren't cared for, the likelihood of injury increases.

Relating to training, make sure everyone who operates required machinery or other tools understands how to use them safely. This could mean additional digital courses or in-person sessions teaching proper handling, operating, cleaning, storing, and maintenance. Any employee who uses your equipment should also follow established guidelines on general inspection before and after use. Encourage them to report any irregularities such as exposed wires, cracks, unusual sparks, or other malfunctions.

Aside from daily use inspections, you may need to follow regulations requiring professional equipment inspections depending on your business. These inspections may occur trimonthly, semi-annually, annually, or at a different interval. Be sure you know when your equipment needs to be inspected.

It seems obvious, but be sure to repair or replace and equipment that needs it. Your workplace and employees will stay safer if you do.

Is Your Workplace Fire Safe?

?To hope for the best and prepare for the worst, is a trite but a good maxim.?

-John Jay (1813), Planning Skills

Fires can break out almost anywhere. While there are prevention measures you can take to lessen the chances, your organization should establish procedures to prevent injury and death.

Inspect your fire extinguishers. You should check on them monthly and have a fire equipment professional inspect them annually. Again, the end or start of the year is a great time to have this done. Furthermore, ensure your sprinkler system functions. Your automatic fire dousing system needs to work to prevent, or at least, delay a fire from spreading. Test your alarms to make sure their tones are loud and clear. Functioning alarms may be your first warning of a starting fire.

Clearly mark fire exits with eye-catching signage. Set safe meeting places to account for everyone. Label fire extinguishers for everyone to see. Ensure your employees know where all of these things are with proper training. These are all things you can do to reduce damages and keep your work force safe.

Refresh First Aid Supplies & Equipment

Every business should keep first aid supplies on-hand. You should inspect your kits at least annually, so the end of the year is the perfect time.

Make sure your equipment is still viable and all the necessary equipment is present. Bandages, antiseptics, gauze, and other medical supplies needed to treat minor injuries should be clean and stored.

If you operate a warehouse, factory, or other workshop, inspect your eye wash stations. Are they functional? Do they need cleaning? Are they easy to find and marked with appropriate signage? These are all important in keeping your employees safe in treating exposure to dust, debris, and hazardous chemicals.

Update Your Safety Signage

Once you've reviewed the areas in your business that need updates, make sure your safety signs are updated. We'll go into the importance of understanding signs below, but know that your signs need to be visible at all times.

Are your signs dull, worn, or broken? Many businesses are required to post specific signage signifying hazardous areas. Maintaining your signs and replacing old ones keeps everyone aware of possible dangers and the proper methods of preventing injuries. Understand all required signage your business needs to post, audit your current signs, and update or replace them as needed.

Once you've reviewed or made updates, ensure your work force follows any new regulations with proper training.

Safety Training

Most workplace injuries are preventable. It is common to hear professionals claim that 99% of accidents are preventable. Some say there are no such things as ?accidents? at all.

Depending on your market, a hazard-free workplace may not be achievable. Construction sites, road repair services, factories, and other fields are inherently dangerous. But, you can decrease the likelihood of injuries with proper employee training.

Is your training comprehensive and easy to understand?

Your safety regulations may be in-depth and fool-proof but that means nothing if your employees don't understand or are unaware of your established standards.

Workplace safety starts with your employees.

Regular safety training ensures everyone understands new standards. Most fields must perform annual training at a minimum. But, frequent and effective training can decrease the chances of serious injury. A 2009 study found that effective training can reduce the number of days-away-from-work injuries.

Has your work site experienced a recent, serious injury? Review your current training programs and identify areas in which your process can be improved.

The new year also gives you an opportunity to look back at 2019 and find any gaps in your training programs.

Would an online, in-person, or on-the-job element help? Ask your long-time employees and new hires what their concerns are. They may give you new insight into misunderstandings around your training courses. They'll also appreciate having their voice heard by management.

The Cost of Poor Training

Training employees can seem like a major expense, but it shouldn't be overlooked or ignored. The cost of not including proper training for your workers can far outweigh the downsides.

Shift eLearning states that companies that put a focus on employee development can see an average of 24% more profit if they invest $1,500 into their training. Furthermore, investing in your employees means a more productive work force, less turnover, and a happier work environment.

If you don't train your employees, your business could suffer more than lost profit. OSHA's penalties for violating workplace safety regulations can start at $13,260 per violation. Your company may also be liable for workers compensation, medical bills, and legal payments depending on the severity of the incident.

Ensure your company doesn't spend more money than it has to, with comprehensive training for all employees. Your business will benefit from it while avoiding violation fines and other unnecessary expenses.

Understanding Signage

Part of your training should include a section or sections on what safety signs mean.

Understanding the meanings of caution, danger, and warning signs is important for employee safety.

There are many pictogram hazard symbols. If your company handles hazardous materials, your employees need to know what each symbol means.

Posting these signs serves as a reminder for your employees to follow safety protocols. However, if your employees don't know what these signs mean, then they won't help in your safety efforts.

Additionally, theOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires certain signage to properly advertise hazardous elements in your business. When ordering or designing your signage, you must follow theOSHA signage design guidelines.

Ensure your training program covers what signs your company uses and their meanings. Again, your business may follow all the design requirements and regulations, but it means nothing if your work force doesn't know what they mean.

This all leads to how improper training can cost your business more money.

CustomSigns.com is your one-stop-shop for compliant safety signage. We are your experts on the professional signs you need for your business.

▴Top▴

▴Back to Top▴

Road Signs & What They Mean

Table of Contents
Regulatory Signs	Road Sign Shape
Road Sign Colors	▸Diamond
▸White	▸Pentagon
▸Red	▸Triangle
▸Yellow	▸Rectangular
▸Green	▸Circle
▸Blue	▸Octagon
▸Brown	Road Symbols
▸Yellow-Green	Uncommon Signs
▸Orange	Reference

The holidays are here which means many Americans are taking to the roads for home. If you?re one of the thousands of travelers this season, following posted signs and other traffic control devices will mean a safer trip for you and other drivers and pedestrians.

Understanding the importance of traffic signs and their meaning keeps everyone safe. The holiday season is a busy time of year for travelers, so follow the warnings posted along the roads of the United States for your safety and the well-being of others.

If you're a new driver, make sure you understand these and other signs. Your safety and the safety of others depends on all of us knowing traffic laws and following posted traffic control devices.

We're going to break down the basics of sign designs in color and shape. These give an easy way to identify upcoming road hazards or changing conditions. At the end of this article, we'll show you some uncommon or confusing signs you may come across.

But, before that, let's see the design concepts behind these signs.

Regulatory Signs

As the title suggests, regulatory road signs regulate the flow of traffic. These signs direct motorists to specific actions such as yielding to other lanes or upcoming speed changes.

These types of signs are meant to be followed at all times. Some signs, as you'll see later, are suggestions or call attention to attractions or rest areas. These are not considered regulatory signs. Whereas things like Yield Signs, Speed Limit Signs, or Construction Signs regulate and control the flow the traffic. So, these are regulatory signs.

With that in mind, you need to know what the colors of different signs mean.

Road Sign Color Meanings

We previously touched on how businesses use color to influence customers, but color also plays an important part in road safety. Colors quickly and easily convey vague messages to road users. The symbols assign the specific meaning, but color is usually the first thing drivers notice. While the full intent of a sign may not be immediately known, seeing the color provides drivers with initial information.

Understanding the general idea of road sign colors keeps you alert and cognizant of potentially changing road conditions.

White

White road signs have a wide variety of uses as they are primarily regulatory signs. Speed limit, lane restriction, and weight limit signs are all examples of white road signs.

Red

Red road signs are regulatory signs. They indicate prohibited actions or direct drivers towards certain actions such as stopping at an intersection or yielding to oncoming or highway traffic.

The best known type of red sign are Stop Signs. They're bright, they're noticeable, and they tell you what to do.

Yellow

Yellow signs issue a warning to road users. These may be the most common and numerous type of road safety sign. Warning road signs have a variety of uses and generally inform drivers of changes and disruptions to the flow of traffic or terrain such as potential wildlife or merging lanes.

Green

Green signs serve as guides. Guide signs tend to bear information such as street names, interstate on and off ramps, and distances to cities and towns.

Blue

Blue signs are not regulatory signs. However, they denote services for drivers such as gas stations, hospitals, and rest areas.

Since they aren't regulatory, blue signs don't control traffic in any way. They show you places to stop or other attractions, but you're under no obligation to follow them.

Brown

Like blue signs, brown signs are not regulatory. They indicate guidance for road users towards recreational areas such as picnic areas, swimming locations, hiking trails, and many more.

Again, since brown signs aren't regulatory, you don't need to follow them.

Fluorescent Yellow-Green

These signs signify pedestrian crossing areas and school zones. It may be difficult to differentiate between this color and the yellow warning signs, and it is important to acknowledge the caution these signs offer for the safety of pedestrians and students.

Orange

Contrary to some beliefs, orange construction signs are not permanent. An orange sign means drivers need to know of temporary traffic control changes such as lanes closed for construction, slow traffic, and marking the beginning or end of road work zones.

Road Sign Shapes

The shape of a traffic sign works in tandem with its color in quickly imprinting and informing of a general warning or alert. Like color, since shape is an easy visual identifier, you can quickly interpret a traffic control sign?s general meaning by looking at its shape.

Diamond Shaped

Diamond signs mean some form of warning. They?re typically used in conjunction with the color yellow to better alert drivers.

Pentagon Shaped

These signs indicate a school zone or crosswalk. Many of these signs use the fluorescent yellow/green color for consistency.

Triangle Shaped

There are a couple meanings for triangle road signs.

• Yield: Possibly the most common form of triangle sign, Yield signs alert drivers to slow down and yield to oncoming or ongoing traffic
• No Passing Zone: These pennant-shaped signs inform drivers of a stretch of road where passing is not allowed and potentially hazardous such as around long turns or narrow lanes

Rectangular Shaped

Rectangular vertical and horizontal signs have a variety of uses, but there are some general meanings for each.

• Vertical: Regulate driving behaviors such as indicating speed limits or informing of lane restrictions
• Horizontal: Typically help in guiding drivers such as indicating a sharp turn, but horizontal signs have a variety of uses

Round/Circle Shaped

Circle road signs inform drivers of an upcoming railroad crossing.

Octagon Shaped

This may be the most easily recognizable. Octagon shaped signs are Stop signs.

Road Sign Symbols

While a sign?s color provides preliminary information, its symbol defines it. Many symbols and phrases adorn our streets, highways, and interstates, and understanding them ensures safe travels during the season. There are many different types of roads signs and they each carry their own meaning.

Most signs bear symbols in black or other contrasting color. This makes the sign easy to see and identify from further away. The typical colors for road sign symbols are white and black. They're easy to see and contrast with most background colors.

Uncommon Sign Meanings

Knowing the colors and shapes of the variety of signs found along America?s highways and interstates allows you to quickly understand their general ideas. However, the symbols define the specific meanings.

As a reminder before your holiday travels, here are a few confusing or less-than-common signs to bear in mind:

Images courtesy ofMUTCD unless otherwise stated

Divided Highway

This sign often gets confused with the similar Leaving Divider sign. The Divided Highway sign signifies an upcoming physical split in the road.

You should understand why this is important. If you don't adhere to the warning of a Divided Highway sign, you could run into the median or off the road.

Merging Traffic

This sign alerts drivers that an upcoming ramp merges directly into the flow of traffic.

Staying aware of your place and the places of other drivers keeps everyone safe. You need to know that an on-ramp is coming up to keep an eye out for merging cars.

Added Lane

Contrasting with the Merging Traffic sign, an Added Lane sign informs drivers of a road or ramp adding another lane alongside and in the same direction as the current flow of traffic.

Similar to Merging Traffic signs, you need to know whether a ramp adds a new lane to the road or not. If it does, you'll need to be aware of drivers staying in their lane. If not, you need to find a safe way to let other drivers into the flow of traffic.

Slippery When Wet

Relatively self-explanatory, a Slippery When Wet sign warns drivers to take caution of water on the road.

If you?re travelling through states or regions prone to snow for the holidays, you need to heed the warning this sign offers. Water always alters road conditions, but certain road types, such as bridges and overpasses, can become even more hazardous than standard asphalt.

Bridge Ices Before Road

Another example of weather warning, a Bridge Ices Before Road sign alerts motorists to watch for ice patches on the road.

The reason bridges ice over faster than roads is due to their construction. Roads built on the ground take longer to change in temperature because only one side is exposed to the air while bridges cool faster because of the colder air both above and below the structure.

Road Narrows

This sign means that the road itself narrows up ahead. Understanding this warning is important as a tighter lane space means less room for you and other drivers.

A narrowing road could mean dangerous conditions such as soft dirt to either side, a water feature such as a river, or tight and close rocky walls. Whatever the reason, you need to follow a Road Narrows sign to avoid a collision or falling off the motorway.

Two Way Traffic

These signs demonstrate a change from one way or split roads into a two-way highway or interstate.

If you've been traveling on a single-lane road, these signs alert you to on-coming traffic. This is important so you understand where the new bounds of your lane are.

“X” Crossing

There are many kinds of crossing signs and they vary from region to region. Many signs indicate wildlife crossing areas for animals such as bears, deer, or cattle. Additionally, there are signs warning of farm equipment or recreational vehicle crossing.

Regardless of the source, you must stay aware of animal and equipment crossing signs for your safety and other bystanders.

These signs warn of potential hazards. As a driver, you should already be aware of your surroundings. But, Animal or Equipment Crossing signs reinforce that behavior. An animal could dart out in front of your vehicle, but you might be able to avoid a collision if you stay vigilant in these sections of road.

Advisory Speed

Some stretches of road indicate a suggested speed. Such markers may be found along exit ramps or lanes, upcoming turns, or other potentially hazardous sections of road.

These signs are not regulatory speed limit signs. However, they indicate and suggest the maximum safest speed given usual road conditions. While these signs aren't absolute, it is best to heed them.

Winding Road

This type of warning sign alerts drivers of an upcoming section of road that contains more frequent turns and curves. Advisory Speed signs may accompany these markers for added safety.

A multitude of signs line America?s highways and interstates. Understanding their meaning and heeding them ensures you, your family, and other drivers will arrive safely.

CustomSigns.com is your one-stop-shop for professional-grade signs. From safety signs to office signs to ADA compliant signs, we are the best online source for all of your signage needs.

Reference

1. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

▴Top▴

▴Back to Top▴

Home fires are an unpredictable tragedy that can be difficult to recover from. While people are capable of finding their way to safety, pets follow their instincts, which means there is more risk in protecting them during emergencies. There are special considerations you should take to give your pets the best chance of survival in the case of a fire.

Animal Instincts

As humans, we understand that we need to escape a burning building. However, our pets often revert to their instincts during stressful situations. Many animals will go into familiar hiding places thinking they are safe. They may become agitated or aggressive, making it more difficult to remove them from a fire. Understanding your pet's behaviors will give you a better chance of saving them during an emergency.

Pet Alert Stickers

Stickers or signs that alert to the presence of animals in your home may help keep them safe. Pet alert stickers are placed on windows or doors to alert firefighters and rescue workers that your household has animals inside.

Do They Work?

There is some question as to whether pet alert stickers and signs actually help keep our animals safe. The question "How do firefighters feel about those 'Please save our pet(s)' stickers" onQuora.? Most of the responses indicate that firefighters generally ignore these signs. According to the answers, there is no way of knowing if the pet, or pets, are still alive, if the animals are even present, or if the stickers were put in place by a previous occupant. Structural damage caused by a fire makes prolonged searching dangerous, so firefighters don't seem to put special consideration into pet alert stickers.

However, firefighters generally conduct searches during a fire, if the circumstances allow. Additionally, there are a few responses onQuora from some firefighters stating they appreciate knowing that pets may be present. Ensure that your stickers are updated to reflect the current occupants.

Pet Safety Tips

What can be done to keep our pets safe during a fire? There are a number of precautions you can do in order to prepare for the worst.

1. Note Hiding Places

If your pets hide during thunderstorms or when fireworks are set off near your home, you should take note of their preferred spaces. Animals may tuck themselves under beds, under tables, in closets, or other confined spaces in order to feel safe. During a fire, your pets may hide themselves in one of their favorite spots in an attempt to escape the danger. Knowing where your pets could be can help you and rescue workers retrieve them in time.

2. Keep Kennels Close to Entrances

Many people keep their pets in kennels or crates during the day for various reasons. The locations of where these are kept vary according to house or apartment layout. However, if possible, place kennels, crates, and other animal carriers near entrances or exits while you're away from home. This makes finding your pets much easier for firefighters and first responders.

3. Post Pet Alert Stickers

While pet alerts may or may not be heeded depending on the level of danger, it is still important to alert firefighters to the presence of your animals. An updated sticker detailing the number of animals in your household can help rescue workers in their search.

4. Train When Possible

It is also easier for first responders to locate your pets if you train them to respond to particular commands. You or emergency personnel, if given the command word or phrase, will then be able to call your pets during the search or out of the burning building.

CustomSigns.com is your one-stop-shop for fire safety signs. Keep the inhabitants of your building safe and comply with safety regulations with our collection of metal and plastic signs and vinyl decals.

References:

1. Quora

OSHA?s standard follows guidelines set by the United Nations. The United Nations established the international system of pictograms to identify chemical hazards, known as the ?Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals? (GHS) standards. This system includes distinct visual symbols assigned to each type of risk.

Upholding GHS Standards

Chemical manufacturers are required to make sure any container holding hazardous substances is properly labeled. They must also prepare safety data sheets and provide training. By using the GHS standards, employers and workers can see and understand the same set of hazard labels in different businesses and industries.

According to OSHA, requiring this standard should help ?prevent over 500 workplaces injuries and illnesses and 43 fatalities annually.? With a white background, red border and chemical hazard classification, the labels are easy to recognize. Now workers employed at chemical manufacturing companies and employers utilizing certain chemicals can quickly identify risks associated with specific substances.

9 Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) Pictograms

Health Hazard ? The health hazard pictogram features a silhouette of a person with respiratory obstructions. It is used for chemicals that can cause cancer, genetic defects, respiratory irritation, reproductive toxicity, organ toxicity and aspiration toxicity. While some hazards relate more to the environment, this pictogram relates to danger to human health. For example, people working in metal production and metal fabrication industries often deal with toxic materials that must include this label.

Flame Sign ? The flame sign hazard pictogram features a silhouette of a fire flame. It is used to label chemicals that are flammable, self-heating, self-reacting, pyrophoric, contain organic peroxides and emit flammable gas. Work environments ranging from power plants to pharmaceutical companies may house chemical products with this label.

Exclamation Mark ? This warning symbol is a simple exclamation mark. It is used for skin and eye irritants, narcotic effects, respiratory tract irritation and acute toxicity. Items with this hazard label require proper storage and handling processes. Workers in electronics, engineering, and construction industries are often at risk for occupational skin diseases from materials with this label.

Corrosion ? The corrosion symbol shows chemical vials pouring substances on metal and a hand. The corrosion pictogram distinguishes substances that make cause eye damage and burns. It is also used for substances that destroy metals. People may encounter corrosive substances in oil and gas refineries.

Exploding Bomb ? This label features a fragmented circle representing a bomb explosion. It can be used on solids and liquids which are capable of causing damage to the surroundings. These explosive materials may be self-reactive (causing fires without reacting to air), organic peroxides (reacting to heat). Jobs in mining, quarrying, demolition, construction and firefighting may expose workers to these hazards.

Gas Cylinder ? This symbol looks like a sideways bottle. It is used for substances that are compressed, liquefied or dissolved gas under pressure. The hazard pressure is set as 29 pounds per square inch or more. Cylinders can become uncontrolled rockets and may contain reactive substances. These types of chemicals are often found in the oil, marine and space industries.

Flame Over Circle ? This hazard pictogram features an ?O?, which stands for ?oxygen? with a flame above it. It is used to label oxidizers, which can cause fires by increasing the concentration of oxygen in the air. Workers in the automotive industry and textile plants may encounter these types of substances. Proper storage and handling helps reduce this risk.

Environmental Hazard ? The environmental hazard pictogram shows a tree next to a dead fish. It designates aquatic toxicity, which is passed through exposure to water. It can refer to harmful chemicals that may damage human health as well as fish, invertebrates and plants. These risks may be seen in places such as the wastewater management industry and disposal of farming and agriculture chemicals, among other places.

Skull and Crossbones ? This symbol, commonly associated with poisonous substances, is used to designate substances with the potential for acute toxicity. With these chemicals, even exposure to a single dose can be toxic or fatal. Exposure can occur through inhalation, swallowing or skin contact. Manufacturers of chemicals and pharmaceuticals, as well as farming industries, may be in places where this label would be placed on substances.

Preventing Exposure

Workers should always check labels which will alert them of specific risks. If less hazardous materials are available, those should be used first. Storage, safe handling, contamination prevention, and external conditions can be major factors in preventing chemical reactions and physical exposure.

Understanding the health hazards, special instructions and emergency procedures can help prevent severe injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. Workplace safety signs also include helpful information such as a Signal Word, Substance Name, Hazard Statement and Precautionary Statement. GHS chemical signs can include multiple pictograms, depending on the substance hazards.

Related Posts:

• Caution, Warning and Danger Signs Explained
• Understanding OSHA and Displaying Proper Signage for Workplace Safety

References:

1. OSHA HCS Fact Sheet
2. OSHA Pictograms
3. Pictogram Training Sheet

Here is a list of signs that every business should display:

Grand Opening

Once your storefront has come together, you?ll want to let customers and clients know you are open for business. Personalizing a grand opening banner can inform onlookers that you are up and running. Drive customers in with creative designs, a custom logo, and opening promotions. You will want to include your company name, phone number, location and web address. Give your hard work the recognition it deserves and make sure you implement enough advertisement to bring in excited customers.

Parking Spots

After attracting the customers to your store, make it easy for them to park and walk in. Depending on your location you may have storefront parking, a stand-alone lot, or street parking. Show customers you care about their convenience and display signs for your business's designated parking spots.

You can get creative and design your own parking sign or order a pre-made template. Before installing a sign, find out if you are authorized to make those changes. Whether you need to contact the city or the owner of the complex your store is in, take the time to get the information you need.

If you can't hold certain spots available, you can display a sign informing future customers where available parking lots/spots are for those who wish to enter your business.

Hours of Operation

It is wonderful to gain repeat customers and loyal clients! While you and your staff work hard to keep your store up and running, you can only stay open for so long. Displaying a sign that solely contains business hours is essential. Clings and decals can be placed in the window by the front door, or you can hang a sign for optimal visibility. If hours are flexible or you just opened and are figuring out your hours of operation, you can display a reversible open/closed sign. You can hang it next to your hours of operation sign and flip it depending on if your store is open or closed.

Restroom Signs

Whether you serve food, goods, or service, you most likely have restrooms for your patrons. It can be hard to spot the bathroom if you do not display signage. You can help point them in the right direction with a directional sign. You?ll be surprised how helpful a simple arrow sign can be to a customer who is unfamiliar with your building.

Once they get to the designated restroom, make sure you distinguish the type of lavatories provided. Are your bathrooms for men and women, family, and/or handicap accessible? Show it!

Depending on your establishment, you may or may not be required to provide a washroom for customers to use. Make sure to check your state and local laws when finding a place for your business.

In Case of Emergency

While you should be taking the proper precautions to prevent any emergencies from occurring, accidents still happen. If a problem does arise, it is imperative that you have had emergency signs placed to ensure staff and customer safety.

Mark the proper doors as emergency exits and use a directional sign so people can locate the fire extinguisher. If your place of business has multiple floors, make sure to use a sign that states using the stairs in case of an emergency. For any tripping hazards, you should use a caution watch your step sign.

Keep your business running safe and effectively by displaying the proper signage. This is both a courtesy to your customers, but will also help protect your business from liability. Customize signs or order templates to make sure you convey important information to customers, clients, and staff. For all your sign and plaque needs shop our online store at Customsigns.com.

Summer Safety in Your Community

Summer is finally here, so now is the perfect time for summer safety reminders for your Home Owner's Association community. Your residents are responsible for following your HOA's rules and regulations, but posting memos or holding community meetings are helpful for everyone. Additionally, your organization is responsible for maintaining communal grounds and amenities, so here are some summer safety reminders.

Heat Hazards

According to Heat Kills, the interior temperature of a car can increase by 34 degrees in as little as 30 minutes.¹ Even if the temperature outside is a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit, that increases to 104 degrees in half-an-hour, so remind your residents to NEVER leave children or animals in their vehicles. Post custom signs around your community as a reminder of the dangers of the summer heat as a way to prevent unnecessary tragedies.

Common Area Consciousness

If your HOA has communal areas such as pools or clubhouses, then you'll want to make sure they're in good working order. Providing clean and functional community amenities will keep residents happy and appreciative. Here are a few reminders for common community areas for the summer.

Playgrounds

After a long winter of un-use, your community's playgrounds should be inspected before summer takes full effect. Ensure all children's playground equipment is free of potential hazards and replace bolts and other structural pieces as needed. Watch out for any other hazards such as glass or insect infestations to remove as well. Post children at play signs near playground amenities to prevent accidents along roads.

Clubhouses

Providing a clean and well-maintained lounge or clubhouse for your residents shows your HOA's professionalism and instills confidence in your community. Ensure HVAC units are well-maintained and in working order. Additionally, check to make sure any lounges or other communal buildings are clean and presentable. Inspect any equipment, such as lights or televisions, to make sure they function properly.

Pools

Swimming is a favorite summer activity for many, so ensuring your pool is well-kept is imperative for the coming months. Remove any debris that may have collected over the winter and spring months from in and around your pool area. Update any pool signage to reflect new or revised safety rules. Inspect and repair pool filters and lighting fixtures as needed.

Gyms

Summer means more free time to exercise, so ensure that all equipment is in proper working condition for the safety of your residents. Wipe down and disinfect all equipment to prevent sickness. Ensure that all HVAC or other cooling units are working adequately.

Outdoor Areas

Your outdoor community areas will probably see more use thanks to warmer weather. Clean all outdoor recreation areas such as gazebos, tennis courts, dog parks, etc. Ensure that gazebos are structurally sound and repair any equipment as necessary. Fences and other sectional walls should be inspected for integrity.

Night Nuisances

Remind your residents to stay safe at night. With summer comes an increase in criminal activity, so marking monitored areas with video surveillance signs can help prevent potential robberies or violent crimes. Whether lights deter crime or not is still up for debate, but maintaining street lights helps your residents see once night falls, so ensure your community's light sources are properly maintained.

Secure Street Safety

With school out for the year, many children will be home or using your pools or playgrounds. Keep your community safer by posting speed limit signs along heavy foot traffic areas near communal amenities. Additionally, inspect roads for damage such as pot holes or large cracks and contact your local city or county maintenance department for repairs to prevent damage to vehicles.

Vacation Ventures

Remind your residents to keep their homes safe if they will be leaving for a summer vacation. Warn them not to advertise their vacations as this could alert potential criminals that their home will be vacant for a time.

Ensuring your community's health and happiness is important for every Home Owner's Association. With these safety tips and signs from CustomSigns.com, you can keep this summer fun and safe for you and your residents.

References:

1. HeatKills.org
2. DigitalJournal.com

Vacation Season

With summer almost here, many people will be spending time outside or rushing off for family trips. It?s easy to forget general safety tips during summertime if you're busy taking advantage of the pleasant weather or enjoying your time off. Camping, long-awaited vacations, the beach, grilling, swimming, and many other fun activities await, after all, and according to a 2017 study, 80% of United States residents took a vacation during the summer.¹ However, summer safety should stay a priority even during your upcoming holiday. Here are some tips for kids and adults to help keep your summer safe and fun!

The Great Outdoors

If you?re going hiking or camping, be sure to heed any warnings concerning fire or wildlife danger. Ensure any fire pits or campfires you light are built properly and away from tents, dry twigs, and nearby foliage to prevent wildfires. Remember to bring bug spray to keep pests away and first aid materials in the case of a minor incident. Be mindful of any local fauna postings, such as bear warnings, or if you run a campground or other such location, ensure you prominently place appropriate signage warning campers of potential wildlife and forest fire dangers.

Whether you?re going hiking, camping, to the beach, to the pool, or simply spending time outside at home, always remember to pack and apply sunscreen every two to four hours. The sun?s harmful UVB rays are the cause of 95% of melanoma cases and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers.² However, according to an Australian study, appropriate application of SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce your chance of developing melanoma by up to 50%.³ Make sure your sunscreen isn?t expired as it can lose effectiveness over time. Sunscreen is an important and easy way to keep you and your skin healthy!

Pool or Beach Side

Many vacationers and coast-dwellers will probably spend some time swimming this summer. It's a refreshing break from the hot summer sun, a phenomenal form of exercise, and a great way to stay cool. However, there are a few water safety tips to keep in mind while you?re at your favorite swimming locale. If you plan on going to a public pool, you can start by following all posted pool policies. Generally, swimming pool rules are established for the protection of swimmers. No diving, running, glass containers, and leaving children unsupervised are common safety rules meant to protect pool-goers from injury.?If you own a pool or your organization has one on property, be sure to keep your swimming pool safety signage updated to reflect current policies. Additionally, there?s the old belief that you should wait 30 minutes to an hour after eating before you can swim, but according to an article from Mayo Clinic and Dr. Boniface, ?You may end up with some stomach cramping or a muscle cramp? and ?it may not be the most comfortable thing to go for a swim with a full belly, the world won?t end if you ignore your mom?s advice.?⁴

Workplace Woes

Unfortunately, many of us don?t get to enjoy a summer break. Work still needs to be done, but now is a prime opportunity to address summer safety topics for your workplace. It?s easy to skip drinking water while you're on the clock, so remind your employees and coworkers to stay hydrated during the hot months to prevent dehydration. Perhaps now is the time to update your business? safety signage. Given the hot and dry weather summer brings, you may consider updating or adding additional fire safety signs and equipment. Clearly marking fire exits and extinguishers can help keep you and your coworkers safe in the case of an emergency. Finally, if your employees spend most of the workday outdoors, remember to let them take plenty of breaks to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

At Home

Whether you can?t travel due to work or simply want a relaxing stay-cation, you always want to keep your home or apartment safe. From a 2014 study from the Bureau of Justice, there is evidence of increased crime rate during the summer. Burglaries occur up to 11% more and household larceny up to 8% more frequently compared to other seasons.⁵ One way to discourage potential criminals is by posting video surveillance signs if you have a camera security system. If you don?t have an electronic security system but do have a canine companion, then hanging ?Beware of Dog? signs on your property can help deter would-be burglars and vandals. Home is meant to be a safe haven for you and your family, and warding off unwelcome guests and intruders with clearly marked warning signs can help this summer.

Summer is the season of fun for many. Ensure you keep yours that way by following a few summer safety tips!

References

1. Minnaert, Lynn. (2017). US Family Travel Survey 2017. Retrieved from https://www.scps.nyu.edu/content/dam/scps/pdf/200/200-4/200-4-16/P1718-0036-2017_Family_Travel_Survey.pdf
2. www.cancercouncil.com.au
3. ascopubs.org
4. newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org
5. www.bjs.gov