Over the years, we've all picked up miscellaneous safety tips. They can add a bit of spice to a safety meeting or newsletter. Let me share 10 off-the-beaten-path safety tips from my vast collection.

Tip 1: Rake Leaves, Not Nerves

Here's a nifty little hint for autumn. Placing foam rubber over the handles of rakes - or simply wrapping the handles in foam tape to fatten them - makes them easier to hold and reduces the stress placed on the tendons and median nerve in the palm. The same technique works great with brooms and other handled tools.

Tip 2: Pump Up the Tires

It's a common misconception that keeping less air in tires improves traction in hot weather, on snow or when you're carrying a heavy load. In fact, the opposite is true. Under-inflated tires are much more likely to blow out, come off the rims or "hydroplane" on wet roadways. For better handling and mileage, you should inflate tires to the maximum air pressure recommended by the manufacturer.

Tip 3: Paint It Bright

With darkness setting in earlier, it's a good idea to dab spots of fluorescent paint around keyholes and the edges of driveways, stairs and house numbers. This will make them more visible in the dark. Fluorescent tape will have the same effect but it doesn't last as long.

Tip 4: Ditch Damaged Drains

Replace cracked or broken drain inspection covers to guard against the risk of disease-carrying bacteria being released or carried away by flies. Falling leaves and other debris may also fall through the cracks and block the drain.

Tip 5: Stop Motion Sickness

During the early stages of motion sickness, a person produces excess saliva that drips down into the stomach causing nausea. You can avoid this by eating olives (they produce tannins) or crackers or sucking on lemons.

Tip 6: Baste Before Roasting

Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outdoors to give the skin a chance to absorb it.

Tip 7: Don't Trust Everything in the Drug Store

People sometimes believe that a drug is "safe" simply because you can buy it over-the-counter at pharmacies. That's not necessarily true. Using any product excessively or for a long time is dangerous. You should consult a doctor if you rely heavily on any of the following: pain relievers (including analgesics such as aspirin), cough and cold "cures," nasal decongestants and laxatives.

Tip 8: Bee Nice

If you're stung by a yellow jacket, don't smash it, especially if there's a nest nearby. When destroyed, a yellow jacket's venom sac releases a chemical that incites other yellow jackets to attack.

Tip 9: Keep the Baby from the Bathwater

Young children should not run their own baths. Children risk not only a nasty scald, but also a possible injury if they panic when stepping into an overly hot tub.

Tip 10: Avoid Road Rouge

Never put on makeup while you're driving.

Have a safe fall, I mean autumn, everybody.

Richard Hawk

Click on the links more information on Safety Compliance or OSHA Compliance.

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