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5 ways to get ready for Memorial Day weekend

Posted on May 26th, 2011 by Alexis Cala No Comments

Memorial Day is a time to remember those who aren’t with us and a chance to spend quality time with those who are. So, if you’re planning a get together this weekend, here are some tips to ensure you have a safe, healthy and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend.

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Airport delays: What to do when your stuck

Posted on December 28th, 2010 by Alexis Cala No Comments

Courtesy of Nicola since 1972 (via Flickr)

Airports are slowly recovering from the wintry mix. But blizzard conditions are still causing delays, stranding passengers and leaving many folks at the airport to twiddle their thumbs for days – which means holiday spirits are wearing thin.

So, what can you do? Before you pull your hair out, here are just a few things to do if you’re stuck at the airport:

  • Ask for airline freebies
  • Entertain yourself: new gadgets, like phones, iPads, eReaders, etc. are handy for games, books, movies
  • Find a new book, magazine, puzzle book, etc.
  • Shop through duty free stores
  • Grab a cup of coffee and make some friends, remember they’re in the same boat

You can also pass the time with these 8 things to do while stranded at the airport.

Of course, no matter how you look at it, it’s a stressful situation and no one’s happy about it. Everyone wants to go home. So, knowing How to cope when you’re stuck at the airport overnight can help:

  • Stay calm
  • Find ways to make the best of the situation
  • Don’t let your blood sugar get too low – grab snacks and goodies just in case restaurants, snack shops, etc. aren’t open late.

It’s important to remember that weather related delays are for your safety. Try not to get angry at the airlines or take it out on others, keep your cool, relax and try to find ways to stay busy while you’re grounded.

Winter driving tips

Posted on December 23rd, 2010 by Alexis Cala No Comments

Courtesy of dougww (via Flickr)

Whether you’re planning on going to relatives, the airport or even your local store over the holidays, a few driving tips can help you stay safe on the road.

This time of year means cold weather, too much eggnog and, a lot of times, rushed drivers. A little ice or snow on the roads coupled with the many distractions (screaming kids, last minute gifts, a wrong turn, etc.) can lead to serious problems.

Of course, we can’t help with the screaming kids. But a few safety tips from the National Safety Council can get you from A to B or even C without too many problems:

  • Wear seatbelts
  • Drive sober
  • Focus on the road
  • Drive defensively

WiseBread also suggests things like knowing the roads and designating a driver. Simple but smart tips for any holiday driver. Along with these handy tips, make sure you have an emergency kit in the car and you know what to do if a winter storm hits before you hit the road.

Safe driving and happy holidays!

Medical notification cards for flyers

Posted on December 17th, 2010 by Alexis Cala No Comments

Courtesy of Marcin Wichary (via Flickr)

The enhanced security measures at airports are a concern for many. But for some folks, like those with a health condition or a disability, it can be that much more uncomfortable.

So, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is making the security process a little easier with new Disability Notification Cards.

Keep in mind, this doesn’t exempt you from screening. But, after several incidents, these medical cards are intended to help you get through security with fewer issues and more privacy.

The card is a way to quietly inform the security officer that you have a health condition, disability or medical device. And allows you to have a more private screening. Other cards have been used in the past, but these will be more uniform and accepted by security at airports.

Of course, flying these days can be stressful for anyone. Can I bring liquids? Are the new security scanners safe? There are a lot of questions, so be prepared with Alison’s 5 ways to get ready for airport security.

For more information about notification cards, to make a complaint, etc. contact the TSA.

Fight the flu during National Vaccination Week

Posted on December 6th, 2010 by Alexis Cala 1 Comment

Courtesy of alvi2047 (via Flickr)

It’s National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), which means that December 5-11 is all about taking care of your health, helping your family stay well and doing what you can to prevent the flu. Starting with the flu shot.

CDC officials recommend that Everyone 6 months and older get the vaccine. So whether you’re 5, 20 or 80, pregnant, a caregiver or a mom or a dad, it’s important that you get the flu shot. While children under 6 months can’t be vaccinated, getting the shot yourself and for others in the house can go a long way to protecting little ones.

Ready to get the flu shot? Go to Flu.gov and use the Flu Vaccine Finder to find flu clinics near you.

This year’s shot protects against three strains of flu virus, including H1N1. Flu season this year is expected to be pretty normal, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a risk of serious illness. In fact, there are already outbreaks in Georgia and more reports of flu coming in. So, use NIVW to remind everyone about healthy habits and make sure your family is protected against the flu.

If you have concerns about the flu shot or advice for other parents, head over to The Beehive and share your story.

5 ways to get ready for airport security

Posted on November 23rd, 2010 by Alley Pezanoski-Browne No Comments

Courtesy of hyku

An estimated 42 million people will be traveling this Thanksgiving, and the TSA reports 2 million people travel daily by air. Chances are you’ve heard about the controversy over the new TSA security measures that include more invasive pat-downs and the use of Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines.

While TSA head John Pistole takes another look at the new procedures in an attempt to balance security and privacy, here’s what you should know about airport travel for the holidays.

  1. Know your rights: If you are asked to submit to an AIT full-body scan, you have every right to ask for a pat-down instead. You can also ask for a private pat-down by a same-gender TSA agent. The AIT scans are viewed by an off-site agent who cannot see the passenger’s face, and pat-downs can take more time and be intrusive, so it’s really a toss-up which is the lesser of two evils. The choice is up to you.
  2. Be prepared: The TSA Travel Assistant gives you some tips to going through airport security quickly and painlessly. A couple of tips to remember: avoid wearing loose-fitting clothes because you might have extra security to deal with if you do, make sure to de-clutter your carry-on bag beforehand, and pack your jackets in your baggage when you can.
  3. Arrive early: Air travel always takes more time during the holidays, but this controversy and potential protests of scanners will probably cause even further delays. Make sure you arrive early for your flight.
  4. Protect your modesty: If you’re nervous about what the TSA officer will see, there are new modesty-protecting underwear that keep your “privates private”. Or for women, you could wear Flying Pasties. Of course, seeing a fig-shaped blob might look suspicious to your attendants, so no solution is perfect.
  5. Be informed: This controversy has sparked a necessary conversation about privacy and protection. Are we willing to give up a little for the sake of the other? People have suggested solutions like using profiling, smart profiling, AIT machines with image distortion, or adopting Israel’s air security policies. Make sure you listen to the solutions being proposed. What do you think is right?