The Bystander Effect

by Lisa Cunningham, Director of Communications

We’re all familiar with the term “bystander,” a person who watches events unfold from the sidelines while doing nothing to help. But few of us might have ever heard of the “Bystander Effect.”

Simply put, the Bystander Effect is the name given to the psychological phenomenon where the greater number of people present, the less likely people are to help a person in distress. In other words, for some reason that psychologists don’t fully understand, observers are more likely to help a victim if few or no witnesses are around.

The Bystander Effect in action

Can you imagine the horror of being the victim of a crime or an attack, screaming for help, and watching people just walk by?

Last year, NBC’s “Today Show” ran a segment during which a reporter spoke with a security specialist about the bystander effect. And, to prove how real — and devastating — its effects can be, the show staged the attempted abduction of a seven year-old girl.

Watch the video here and make it your business to get involved — even if it’s just calling 911 — if you ever see this happening.  And tell us, have you ever declined helping someone who appeared to be in trouble? Please share your reasons why in the comments below.

Space Heater Safety Tips

by Lisa Cunningham, Director of Communications

Recently, there have been a number of stories in the news about fires which were caused by space heaters. Unfortunately, space heater-related deaths are not uncommon and are normally caused by carelessness or improper use.

While space heaters are an economical alternative to traditional electric or gas heat, they can also be extremely dangerous if not used properly. In fact, an estimated 25,000 house fires and 300 deaths are caused each year by space heaters. With more than two months left in the winter season, we’d like to pass along the following tips to help keep you toasty, yet safe, on those cold days and nights:

1. Always choose a thermostatically-charged heater, as they save energy and won’t overheat.
2. If purchasing a new heater, make sure that it has the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) label attached to it.
3. Place heaters on a level, hard, non-flammable surface, away from heavy foot traffic.
4. Turn off the heater when you leave the area or room in which it is placed.
5. Never leave a space heater on when you sleep.
6. Keep children and pets away from heaters.

Perhaps most importantly, be sure to test your smoke detectors before you utilize a space heater in your home. Smoke detectors should be placed on every floor of your house and their batteries should be changed twice each year. You should also consider investing in carbon monoxide detectors, as many fire deaths are not caused by flames, but by carbon monoxide. You can guard against carbon monoxide poisoning by installing alarms to detect this gas in your home.

Space heaters are a portable, cost-effective alternative to warming your home during the winter months. But follow these simple tips to keep your family warm, and at the same time avoid an easily preventable tragedy.

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Thanksgiving Food Safety in 6 Simple Steps

By Lisa Cunningham, Director of Communications

Thanksgiving is meant for spending time with family, reflecting on things we’re thankful for, and gorging. Let’s face it: food, food, and more food is on the minds of most people as we get closer to Thanksgiving Day.

What we don’t think about is the potential for food poisoning. In fact, an estimated 76 million people fall victim to food-borne illnesses each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That threat is even greater during the holidays, for three main reasons:

• It’s the height of cold and flu season
• Multiple hands are preparing various dishes, and
• Food may be improperly cooked and/or preserved

To make sure your Thanksgiving is all fun and food poison-free, follow these simple holiday food safety tips:

• Wash hands thoroughly and frequently. This is the easiest, surest way to prevent bacterial contamination. Wash hands with plenty of hot, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before, during, and after food preparation.
• Thoroughly wash all fresh produce, even if it’s pre-packaged.
• Defrost the turkey in the refrigerator, according to package instructions. Never thaw the turkey on the kitchen counter or in the sink (unless it’s covered in water), to prevent salmonella contamination.
• Use a food thermometer. This is the only way to ensure foods are cooked to their proper temperature. Don’t assume that the turkey is done simply because it’s browned. Foods should be cooked to at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit and kept above 140 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure all harmful bacteria is destroyed.
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of preparation. Sure, everyone wants seconds — or thirds — but allowing food to set out for more than two hours after serving is inviting disaster. Experts advise storing leftovers in covered, shallow containers within two hours after serving.
• No dipping or picking at food with bare fingers. Our hands and fingers harbor millions of bacteria, and sampling or tasting food while it is being prepared is a recipe for food-borne illness. Resist the temptation to pick, and eat only from your own plate.

Following these simple steps will ensure you, your family, and guests eat, drink, and stay merry during the holiday season.