Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention

If They Could Talk There Is Never an Excuse Stay Home may not only be safer and healthier for just Covid-19 - What about our Furry Family Members Nicer days are upon us great However, there are also hazards in seconds - vehicles can and do quickly reach DEADLY temperatures... Test this yourself sit in your car with the windows closed for 2 minutes you will probably not last a full two minutes in these warmer days The Maritimes are predicted to have above average temperatures this summer, so it would be best to think ahead and get into good habits now before you begin thinking about travelling with your pets. Vehicles parked in the shade and the windows slightly open is not enough. There is never an excuse for leaving a pet unattended in your vehicle. It is important to plan your route before you leave, and if you need to deviate from that route, make sure you are able to take your pet with you. Dogs have a limited ability to sweat; so even a short time in a warm or hot environment can be life-threatening. A dog’s normal body temperature is about 39C and a temperature of 41C can be withstood only for a very short time (remember your 2-minute self test!) before irreparable brain damage or even death can occur. Even with the AC going, it is not worth the risk. Many pets have died as a result of a faulty air-conditioning system. It is best to leave our fur babies in the comfort and space of your own home they would thank you for it if they could talk. If you see a pet in a vehicle on these hot days - CALL 911 More information - contact your local SPCA [email protected]

Unfortunately we are seeing too many not wearing or handling their mask properly - It is not helping you or others if not handled or worn properly - Watch this 1 minute video to keep yourself and others safe https://www.canada.ca//covid-19-wear-non-medical-mask-face... Senior Safety Program- Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention [email protected]

If They Could Talk There Is Never an Excuse Stay Home may not only be safer and healthier for just Covid-19 - What about our Furry Family Members Nicer days are upon us great However, there are also hazards in seconds - vehicles can and do quickly reach DEADLY temperatures... Test this yourself sit in your car with the windows closed for 2 minutes you will probably not last a full two minutes in these warmer days The Maritimes are predicted to have above average temperatures this summer, so it would be best to think ahead and get into good habits now before you begin thinking about travelling with your pets. Vehicles parked in the shade and the windows slightly open is not enough. There is never an excuse for leaving a pet unattended in your vehicle. It is important to plan your route before you leave, and if you need to deviate from that route, make sure you are able to take your pet with you. Dogs have a limited ability to sweat; so even a short time in a warm or hot environment can be life-threatening. A dog’s normal body temperature is about 39C and a temperature of 41C can be withstood only for a very short time (remember your 2-minute self test!) before irreparable brain damage or even death can occur. Even with the AC going, it is not worth the risk. Many pets have died as a result of a faulty air-conditioning system. It is best to leave our fur babies in the comfort and space of your own home they would thank you for it if they could talk. If you see a pet in a vehicle on these hot days - CALL 911 More information - contact your local SPCA [email protected]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcHQ8jaq29g SENIORS CHAIR EXERCISE We wanted to share with you so you can share with anyone you wish. We had this video made yesterday with Sharon Lynch and our videographer Steve Currie (he was masked & gloved) it was shot in an empty Fire Hall locally. Sharon (the instructor) in the video does this twice weekly in Pictou County (Westville, Trenton and Pictou) with over 200 Seniors attending weekly. Seniors are directed to start slowly and n...ever mind what their neighbour (when in the same room) is doing just do what you can comfortably. We thought doing the video would allow many of them to continue on their own as well any other seniors (across the world) could start this Senior Exercise Program. We believe it is a wellness essential at this isolation time contributing to our wellness, physical, mental and beyond (connections virtually). You will see at the end of the video acknowledgements of the Funding that made this possible. Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association Nova Scotia Dept. of Seniors Funding Barb Smith Pictou County Senior Safety Coordinator Mary MacLellan Pictou County Seniors Outreach Coordinator Dian Day Pictou County Community Links Coordinator

Social Distancing or Physical Distancing or Both? No one needs to be told again Social Distancing! The WHO and Governments explained this and its importance and have closed locations (Public Places/Services) to allow for social distancing. These actions are intended to stop or slow down the spread of this contagious virus. ... That does not mean exactly as it seems maybe another word for each of us personally would be PHYSICAL DISTANCING! the 2 meters- (2-3 arm lengths ), the Stay at Home and all the other great information provided to us to help us with this pandemic. We all need Socialization we just have to do it differently- changes to our daily routines - Social Media (help someone get this option), Telephone (make sure you call several times -even for a minute just to say hello), use technology to keep in touch with friends and family. There are many creative ways to say hello, show a smile, let folks know they are not alone in this very challenging, fearful time. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 by making a conscious effort to keep a physical distance between each other. [email protected] Permission was granted to post the 2 pictures with Pictou County Senior Safety Coordinator

It is YOUR Money and when it is GONE it is gone COVID- 19 related FRAUDS and SCAMS (worth your time to read) Many types of Emails, Phone Calls and or Text messages encouraging seniors to apply for COVID-related government benefits.... Pretending to be a Bank representative a messages asking for your SIN number and banking information so that they can set up a direct deposit for government funds due to COVID -19. Posing as a representative from the Health Authority saying that you have tested positive for COVID-19 - or you have been exposed to COVID-19 and you have to pay for testing or the results mostly asking for your credit card for payment. Pretending to be a Financial Planners regarding COVID -19 losses are calling seniors about opportunities to get their investment portfolios back up. Contact that your provincial medical benefits have run out (or are about to run out). You will need to send money either to reinstate them or even buy private insurance. Requesting your help - Websites asking you to help purchase Personal Protective Equipment for front line health care providers by donating (paying by credit card) or someone stuck overseas that can not get home and needs your help paying for a special flight. Community helping Seniors Scams - callers will say that they are trying to connect with Vulnerable/ Socially Isolated Seniors to help them. These callers can be predators who are identifying vulnerable seniors to get into their homes, sell them things, or steal their personal information. Do your checks on any such offers. And NEVER give out financial information. Canadian Anti-fraud Centre - Information Released April 8, 2020 Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Senior Safety Program [email protected]

Unfortunately we are seeing too many not wearing or handling their mask properly - It is not helping you or others if not handled or worn properly - Watch this 1 minute video to keep yourself and others safe https://www.canada.ca//covid-19-wear-non-medical-mask-face... Senior Safety Program- Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention [email protected]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcHQ8jaq29g SENIORS CHAIR EXERCISE We wanted to share with you so you can share with anyone you wish. We had this video made yesterday with Sharon Lynch and our videographer Steve Currie (he was masked & gloved) it was shot in an empty Fire Hall locally. Sharon (the instructor) in the video does this twice weekly in Pictou County (Westville, Trenton and Pictou) with over 200 Seniors attending weekly. Seniors are directed to start slowly and n...ever mind what their neighbour (when in the same room) is doing just do what you can comfortably. We thought doing the video would allow many of them to continue on their own as well any other seniors (across the world) could start this Senior Exercise Program. We believe it is a wellness essential at this isolation time contributing to our wellness, physical, mental and beyond (connections virtually). You will see at the end of the video acknowledgements of the Funding that made this possible. Pictou County Municipalities Crime Prevention Association Nova Scotia Dept. of Seniors Funding Barb Smith Pictou County Senior Safety Coordinator Mary MacLellan Pictou County Seniors Outreach Coordinator Dian Day Pictou County Community Links Coordinator

Social Distancing or Physical Distancing or Both? No one needs to be told again Social Distancing! The WHO and Governments explained this and its importance and have closed locations (Public Places/Services) to allow for social distancing. These actions are intended to stop or slow down the spread of this contagious virus. ... That does not mean exactly as it seems maybe another word for each of us personally would be PHYSICAL DISTANCING! the 2 meters- (2-3 arm lengths ), the Stay at Home and all the other great information provided to us to help us with this pandemic. We all need Socialization we just have to do it differently- changes to our daily routines - Social Media (help someone get this option), Telephone (make sure you call several times -even for a minute just to say hello), use technology to keep in touch with friends and family. There are many creative ways to say hello, show a smile, let folks know they are not alone in this very challenging, fearful time. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 by making a conscious effort to keep a physical distance between each other. [email protected] Permission was granted to post the 2 pictures with Pictou County Senior Safety Coordinator

Coronavirus Pandemic Scams/Frauds This is worth the read! Be Careful SCAMMERS set up fast and counting on our generosity and all of us being vulnerable to this C -19 Pandemic we are and will be facing. The scams a lot of the time don’t change. It’s just the circumstances around them.... We still DO NOT send Money, Gift Cards, Etc. YOU still must do your homework Who are you helping? Through whom/what means ARE YOU SURE? Don’t click on online sources you don’t know or respond to emails from unfamiliar senders offering information or products related to the pandemic. They could be aimed at stealing your identity or downloading viruses to your computers or devices. The stories and circumstances will be more challenging as time goes on We are NOT saying don’t help your Family, Neighbours, Community, just be sure that is exactly what is happening. We all need to help, and we all need to be aware Stop/Think/Report what is being as of you. All announcements and offers may not be as there appear (who is really sending them), do you have any local contacts for this request or offer/ program. Be wary of emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or other health agencies saying they have information about the virus. Vet any requests for donations. If don’t know the charity or person requesting donations, don’t give. Be particularly suspicious of crowdfunding sites that might crop up with the announced intention of supporting groups In Doubt Take Time to Check It Out! [email protected]

Funny How Time Slips Away - In case your wondering. 3 DAYS to Valentines Day 6 DAYS to Family Day 19 DAYS to Spring... 61 DAYS to Easter Sunday 141 DAYS to CANADA Day 318 DAYS to Christmas Day [email protected]

Cold conditions are not just uncomfortable, they can be dangerous for YOU and your PETS The guess work is gone - Too Cold for YOU Too Cold for your PETS! Dressing in layers and dress for the conditions even if you’re only going to be out for a very short time -Boots, Hats, Scarves, Mittens/gloves.... With the temperatures dropping, pet-owners are reminded to make sure they don’t leave their furry friends outside. For your pets let/take them out often and for shorter timeframes. Ears & Paws are susceptible to Salt burns & Frostbite quickly. Did you know - these conditions are the same for you both Frostbite, numbness, dehydration and hypothermia are real concerns from chilly/cold outdoor weather for both you and your pets these conditions happen quickly to you and your pets. If you are feeling any effects of these conditions seek medical advice. We are all reminding the public to call 911 if they see an animal in distress. Call your local SPCA or animal shelters for more information. First Day of Spring is March 20th, 2020 let’s hope Mother Nature remembers. Stay Safe in the cold temperatures- Keep your pets safe in these same temperatures. Pictou County Crime Prevention Senior Safety Program [email protected]

National Hug Day January 21st. The only way to celebrate the day is by offering a hug to anyone and everyone you want. Why some say people are often in low spirts after Christmas /New Years and Before Valentines Day so why not?... Hugging has been proven to have health benefits - receiving a hug releases oxytocin, helps reduce stress, lowers blood pressure, feelings of loneliness, isolation, anger and it makes us feel good by giving or receiving a hug. A Hello Hug or a Farewell Hug, a Congratulations Hug, whatever your reason or for no reason at all, everyone needs a hug at sometime Make it today National Hug (Hugging) Day. [email protected]

Here We Snow Again. Snow You Care! Don’t forget all the folks out there working - keeping all of us safe no matter what the snow says. Reminder to keep your pets safe take them inside, watch them when they need to go outside.... Avoid any unnecessary travel -Don’t forget to clean your vehicle of entirely- windows (all windows) roof, head, signal & brake lights. Limit travel to emergencies only -If you MUST go give yourself and others Time & Space As you prepare for possible power outages - Use caution - Many fires are caused by improper use of heaters and candles. Be A Snow Angel - Help a neighbour today! [email protected]

A New Year - 365 Days - A New decade - next 10 Years Wishing for a Healthy, Safe & Happy 2020 for everyone. Great Adventurers and Opportunities - what will you do - what will you change? Happiness lies within all of us...... Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365 page book - write a good one 2020 is the beginning of a new Decade - what will you do for the next 10 Years? [email protected]

Have a Safe & Merry Christmas - Take a minute to Remember all those Serving and Working over the holidays. crimeprevention@bellaliant .net

Playing Chicken with Mother Nature this Winter - Conditions, Centerline, Tailgatingto name a few. Winter Driving comes with many challenges but there are some you can keep in mind and obey with extra caution during snow, slush & icy conditions. A normal centerline width is approximately 4 to 6 inches I am driving 50,70,100 kms & you are driving 50,70,100kms with 4-6 inches between us One should Drive in the center of the lane, allowing margins for error by both driver...s (you and the oncoming traffic). Snow removal do their best to keep our roads safe, but we need to participate in that safety too! Although we have probably all done it and it can be very tempting to do it have you guessed what it is yet? Yes - Hug the Centreline! - the snowplows have cleared the snow & salted the centreline area now we have a bare spot or clear line -better than driving in the slush? But not so safe remember 4-6 inches between you and the oncoming vehicle near misses and some not so misses are reported often. BE Courteous - Allow room stay to your right PLEASE Drive to conditions and potential conditions. Safe Driving habits first- winter is challenging enough. Ice & Snow Take It Slow [email protected] See more