Community Safety

Washington – Noting an increase in holiday decorating injuries last year, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued safety tips for consumers.

Washington – Almost half of drivers in a recent survey said they worry about crashing due to driving too fast, yet more than a quarter admitted to exceeding speed limits.

New York – As part of an effort to reduce potential exposure to a toxic chemical found in some older fluorescent light ballasts in schools, the Environmental Protection Agency has issued guidance on the proper maintenance and management of the ballasts.

Washington – Injuries in high school chemistry laboratories can be avoided with good safety practices, and students should speak up when they feel unsafe, according to a new Chemical Safety Board video.

Washington – The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Belt Partnership is accepting submissions for the 2015 “Be Ready. Be Buckled.” children’s contest, looking for the best artwork that encourages commercial truck and bus drivers to buckle up behind the wheel.

Detroit – Consuming caffeine up to six hours before going to bed can result in poor sleep, concludes a study from the Henry Ford Sleep Disorders and Research Center.

Toronto – Two new Canadian studies examine locations and rescue attempts related to drowning.

Ann Arbor, MI – Excessive drinking – and resulting negative consequences – are more likely to occur when college students combine alcohol and energy drinks, according to a new study from the University of Michigan and Penn State University.

Dallas – Chest pain and other heart attack symptoms may occur up to a month before a person experiences sudden cardiac arrest, warns a new study from the Los Angeles-based Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute.

Washington – Traffic-related deaths increased 3.3 percent in 2012 from 2011 – the first annual increase since 2005 – according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.