Category: Blog

Wooden houses have a low carbon footprint and are an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional brick buildings. They also allow you to take advantage of natural sunlight by positioning windows facing south.

Green woodworking involves using wood that has been recycled or repurposed. This reduces the demand for new lumber and promotes responsible forestry.

Reclaimed Wood

Woodworking with reclaimed materials is becoming increasingly popular in the design world. Reclaimed lumber can add a unique style to furniture pieces and decor items while also being eco-friendly. It’s a great way to add character and charm to any home, and it can be used for anything from floors to coffee tables to buffet servers to bed frames.

Reclaimed wood is typically used from old buildings, barns and fences. It often has withstood the ravages of nature and time for decades or even centuries, giving it a distinct character that’s difficult to duplicate in newer timber. Reclaimed timber is often sourced from over-forested species or older styles of milling, helping to ease the pressure on existing forests.

It’s important to check with your supplier to make sure that reclaimed wood is safe for use in the home. Some salvaged materials may contain lead and other contaminants from paint or chemicals that were used on the structure it came from, so you should always have any wood tested to ensure its safety before using it in your home. Many reclaimed timber companies can test the wood for you, and they can give you advice on how to best treat or seal it if necessary.

Reclaimed timber can be purchased online or at salvage and lumber yards. It’s a good idea to look for timber that’s certified sustainable by the Forest Stewardship Council. This certification indicates that the timber was harvested in a way that minimizes damage to the environment and helps support new growth in forests. You can also search for timber that has been repurposed from other sources, such as old pallets or shipping crates.

Sheep’s Wool

Sheep’s wool is not something you normally think of when shopping for building materials, but it’s a great choice for insulation. Each sheep produces two to 30 pounds of wool per year, which shearers turn into batt insulation. Sheep wool is a much better insulator than fiberglass or mineral wool and it has natural fire retardant properties. It’s also naturally moisture-resistant and has a good sound absorption value.

When sheared, wool is called fleece or rovings, and it comes in many colors and textures. The best rovings are soft and shiny with a high amount of crimp, which is the way the fibers bend around each other. The more crimp, the better the insulating quality. Sheep’s wool is also naturally anti-microbial and hypoallergenic, so it’s a great alternative to polyester insulation for allergy sufferers.

However, it is important to note that the wool used for insulation must be scoured. This is a process that removes vegetable matter, dung locks, and sweat residue. It can be as simple as bathing the greasy wool or as complex as an industrial process with detergent and alkali in specialized equipment.

Homeowners interested in trying sheep’s wool insulation can purchase it online or at local shearing markets, where you may be able to pick up a bag of raw, un-spun fleece for about $10. To do your own scouring, you’ll need a sink or tub filled with hot water and dish soap (just a few squirts is enough). While wearing rubber gloves, place one or more bags of fleece into the hot water and hold them there for a few minutes. Then, gently brush the fleece, and let it dry in a warm place like an airing cupboard.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a renewable material that can be used in place of wood for a wide range of applications. Its popularity stems from its resiliency, beauty and “green cache.” The versatile material can be found in floors, stairs, molding and furniture. Bamboo is easy to work with, although it can be tough on tools due to a high silica content (similar to quartz and sand).

It grows incredibly fast, often in groves that are more like wild grass than woodland. The material can be harvested in a fraction of the time it takes to grow and mature a wood-based hardwood such as oak.

Because of its relative ease to harvest, bamboo is a sustainable alternative for areas where natural forest resources are scarce. In fact, according to The Habit of Woodworking, it is also more eco-friendly than hardwoods, requiring less energy and chemicals to produce. The material is durable and resists dents, scratches and moisture.

The plant’s natural resiliency is an asset in the woodworking world, as it can be cut to various lengths for different projects. For example, the editors of Fine Woodworking magazine have used whole culms to make room dividers. They’ve also split culms, made woven baskets and textured surfaces using the material.

While the majority of bamboo lumber is produced and processed in Asia, it’s available as flooring, stair treads and plywood sheets in the U.S. The material is often dyed to add a rich color and resembles traditional hardwoods. The light colored material can be easily changed with Liberon Water Based Concentrated Dye to match a new color scheme. As an added benefit, bamboo is a moisture-resistant material that doesn’t require the use of VOC-heavy sealants.

Recycled Building Materials

A home that is sustainable is desirable among smart home buyers, and incorporating recycled materials into new homes can be a great way to do so. There are several ways to do this, from using reclaimed wood to creating an energy efficient building out of shipping containers. Regardless of the type of building material you use, it is important to talk to your contractor and architect about this from the beginning so they can incorporate it into your home design.

One of the most common types of recycled building materials used in construction is wood. This is because it is easy to recycle and repurpose. However, this type of material must be sourced responsibly to minimize the environmental impact. For example, wood products that contain adhesives or laminates can be difficult to recycle. It is also important to consider the source of the wood when choosing it for your home.

Another type of recycled building material that can be used in construction is steel. In fact, more steel is recycled each year than paper, aluminum, and glass combined. This material is highly durable and can be shaped into different forms for construction. It can even be mixed with concrete to create a composite material called plasphalt, which is strong and energy efficient.

Reclaimed lumber is a popular option in construction because it is usually cheaper than purchasing new wood. It can be used for everything from windowsills and stair treads to beams in high ceilings. It also offers a unique look that can’t be recreated with new wood.

If you are interested in building with reclaimed wood, visit your local salvage yard or home improvement store to find out what is available. You may also want to check with your local Habitat for Humanity Restore or other reuse centers. Often, these places will have an outlet where they get donated materials and sell them for cheap.

Local Materials

Local materials are those that are found naturally within a particular region. They are often renewable, easy to work with and have a low environmental impact. These materials also offer a unique aesthetic that can help to preserve cultural identity and provide a sense of place in the built environment. Examples include clay bricks for load-bearing walls, straw bales for insulation and stone for decorative elements. Locally sourced materials also have a lower carbon footprint as they don’t need to be shipped long distances for processing and distribution.

Another way to go green in woodworking is by reducing waste. It’s a good idea to sketch out your project before starting cutting. This will help you to visualize the best use of your materials and ensure that there is no waste. Another tip is to always double-check your measurements before making a cut. This will save you time and money in the long run. In addition, be sure to keep any small offcuts. These can be used for plugs and patches in future projects or pressed into wood pellets for fuel. Even bark and sawdust can be put to use as mulch or wood chippings in gardens.

Whenever possible, choose certified hardwoods and locally-sourced lumber for your woodworking projects. This not only supports sustainable forestry practices, but it also helps to minimize the risk of harmful chemicals entering the ecosystem.

Lastly, when it comes to paints, stains and finishes, try to find eco-friendly alternatives that contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are harmful to the environment as well as your health. The use of these products can be easily reduced by simply finding and using more natural, environmentally-friendly alternatives.

Workplace violence is an ongoing concern in healthcare settings. The incidents are disruptive, costly and can put the health of patients and employees at risk.

Developing a plan to respond to violent situations can help prevent them. For instance, hospitals and long-term care facilities can equip their staff with Nonviolent Crisis Intervention training.

De-escalation Strategies

When people hear the term “workplace violence,” they often think of active shooter situations. But there are many other forms of behavior that can fall under this umbrella, including stalking, harassment, aggressive contact, destruction of property and more.

While it’s impossible to prevent all incidents of workplace violence, CPI training can help. By teaching nurses how to recognize and de-escalate troublesome behaviors, they can reduce the risk of a violent incident. And if an incident does occur, they will be better equipped to deal with it effectively.

A nurse’s job can be stressful, especially if they work alone or with patients who are having a medical crisis. Having skills to handle these difficult interactions can make all the difference. De-escalation strategies include being empathetic to the person, not taking things personally and respecting their personal space. It’s also important to keep calm and use non-threatening verbal communication, such as asking open-ended questions or allowing them time to respond.

If a person begins making threats of physical violence, it’s essential to follow established emergency procedures and seek safety. This includes following predetermined escape routes, avoiding being alone and using available resources such as panic buttons or alarms. It’s also critical to be able to assess a situation and take note of any physical cues, such as clenching fists or tightening jaws.

Sometimes, de-escalation does not work and a dangerous situation must be addressed by staff members who have been trained in safe physical intervention. Nurses who have completed CPI training learn how to safely restrain a person, which can be done without causing injury or unnecessary pain. They also learn how to minimize the amount of force used and the likelihood that an individual will be injured in the process.

While certain professions are more prone to workplace violence than others, anyone can be subjected to disturbing behavior. This is why all workplaces should be prepared to respond quickly and appropriately if an employee is at risk of harming themselves or others. Having an action plan and training in place can significantly reduce the risk of disruptive or violent behaviors in a workplace and improve overall patient and worker safety.

Physical Intervention

CPI training teaches professionals how to safely handle potentially unsafe situations. The training includes de-escalation strategies that don’t involve force or physical restraint.

CPI trainers also teach participants how to identify situations that could escalate into aggression or violence, and help them develop plans for dealing with them. These plans may include securing potential weapons and creating escape routes. They may also involve contacting the appropriate person to report incidents and ensure that the safety of everyone is kept in mind.

When it comes to workplace violence, the statistics are grim and troubling. Countless lives have been changed or even destroyed by this type of behavior. The numbers represent real people — healthcare workers, patients, students, clients, loved ones, bystanders and others.

While it is impossible to eliminate all violent and aggressive behaviors, health care organizations can significantly reduce the risk of violence in their facilities by establishing prevention programs that incorporate the best practices recommended by regulatory agencies. Vigorous prevention programs combined with timely intervention and appropriate responses by the workforce can reduce violence, injuries, liability, attrition, and fear, all of which are associated with health care workplace violence.

For example, caregivers in assisted living centers and nursing homes can attend specialized CPI courses designed to address their particular work situation. These classes might teach them nonviolent crisis intervention methods for dealing with elderly or mentally ill clients, and include self-examination to help them understand their attitudes and beliefs that might contribute to disruptive and hostile behavior.

Similarly, hospitals can take CPI training to prevent violence among their nurses and other clinical staff. One study published in the fall of 2013 found that nursing students who received CPI training were less likely to report being threatened or assaulted than those without it.

As an added benefit, CPI offers a combination of online and in-person courses for medical professionals that combines MAB and CPI training. This allows the professional to gain confidence in their ability to de-escalate a dangerous situation while gaining the knowledge that they will have support in case of an actual incident. The cost of these classes is minimal, making them an effective investment in employee safety and well-being.

Reporting

When you have CPI certification training, it equips you to recognize the early signs of a potential crisis situation. Then, you can take steps to defuse it or avoid it altogether. This may mean involving a supervisor or calling law enforcement. It may also involve making it clear to employees that all reports of threatening or violent behavior will be taken seriously and that no one will be retaliated against for reporting it.

Workplace violence is a real threat in many industries, but some are more at risk than others. Specifically, businesses that employ a lot of delivery personnel and those that require regular customer interaction are at higher risk. Additionally, workplace violence tends to occur more frequently in healthcare-related, law enforcement-related, and social service settings.

As a business owner, you want to be prepared in the event of a violence incident. That’s why it’s important to establish a clear policy on workplace violence and provide all employees with the training and support they need. Additionally, installing effective surveillance systems and providing easy-to-use mass communication technology is another way to improve your organization’s ability to handle violent situations.

During a workplace violence assessment, you should also make sure to consider the perpetrator’s relationship to the affected workplace. OSHA has developed a model typology of workplace violence that includes the following types of incidents:

Type 2: Customer, Client or Patient Violence
This type of workplace violence involves an assailant who has some relationship to the business. The assailant could be a client, customer, passenger, victim of a crime, or even someone who has been incarcerated.

This type of violence typically occurs in conjunction with robbery or shoplifting. To prevent this from happening in your business, you should keep cash on hand to a minimum and use an electronic payment system. You can also install a locked drop safe and ask for frequent surveillance by local law enforcement. Lastly, be sure to provide your employees with information on resources that can help them deal with domestic violence and other issues outside of work.

Confidence

Having CPI training boosts nurses’ confidence to deal with tense situations, especially in hospitals and emergency care settings. It also increases their ability to recognize early warning signs of behavior changes, which allows them to help patients avoid a full-blown crisis.

CPI’s foundation train-the-trainer course, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, is an evidence-based four-day program designed within the context of adult learning theory to teach staff safe and effective de-escalation and physical intervention strategies. It’s based on the CPI philosophy of Care, Welfare, Safety and SecuritySM which is inherently person-centered. This approach is rooted in the belief that all people, including students, patients, teachers and caregivers, are capable of changing their own behaviors when given the right tools and support.

For many healthcare workers, particularly those in a direct patient-facing role, verbal de-escalation is the first line of defense against a potential workplace violence incident. It’s a forward-thinking approach that can help lower worker’s comp claims and reduce exposure to risk by teaching staff how to quickly mitigate and decrease risk before situations escalate.

According to a recent survey by Hospital IQ, almost two million American workers report having been victims of workplace violence each year, and nearly three-quarters believe they are at risk of being the victim of a violent incident in the future. The costs associated with workplace violence are significant, contributing to lower morale, increased employee turnover, higher health insurance premiums and workers’ compensation claims, as well as legal and reputational damage.

To combat this growing problem, hospitals and clinics are turning to CPI’s proven training and prevention methods. By implementing CPI’s de-escalation and physical intervention training, they can save money in the long run while increasing patient safety, reducing worker’s comp claims, meeting regulatory compliance and improving overall culture.

ChatGPT tokenizes your input into a collection of embeddings and uses them to analyze grammar, syntax, and semantics. However, it can get confused in some areas like math, so your prompt needs to be clear and concise.

Prompts can also include specific instructions about the length, structure, and tone of a response. These can help improve the model’s accuracy.

1. Set a schedule

When you’re overwhelmed with pending tasks, ChatGPT can help you prioritize your tasks using the ABCD Method. It will automatically sort your tasks by priority, ensuring that you tackle the most important ones first.

Aside from being a free ai story generator, it can also act as your virtual cheerleader to help you stay motivated throughout the day. Simply provide it with a prompt about your goals for the day, and it will give you motivation and encouragement.

For those with creative blocks, ChatGPT can be a helpful brainstorming buddy. It can suggest unique ideas, assist with content strategy, and identify potential project risks. It can also summarize meetings by generating a transcript, saving you time and energy.

Similarly, ChatGPT can help you debug a code snippet. Just provide it with a list of steps and the chatbot will provide you with detailed instructions on how to execute them. Just remember to provide clear instructions when working with ChatGPT, as it will respond better to specific questions rather than broad generalities. This will ensure that the results are accurate and useful.

2. Set reminders

Whether you need to remind yourself of a deadline, an appointment, or something that’s on your to-do list, ChatGPT’s natural language processing is a powerful tool for getting organized and staying on top of tasks. Our AI To-Do List template can help you stay productive by creating and updating a to-do list automatically.

It can also generate ideas and suggestions for writing, brainstorming, or creative projects. If you’re having trouble coming up with a headline for your article or a catchy slogan for your new product, it can give you suggestions that might inspire you to come up with something better.

You can even use ChatGPT to format text for a specific purpose, such as creating a study guide or an essay. To get the best results, prompt ChatGPT with clear instructions and be specific about what you want it to do. For example, if you need it to write an essay, tell it how many words you want it to be and what style of writing you prefer. You can even provide it with rules, such as FAQs or other guidelines that you want it to follow.

3. Automate tasks

Automating tasks like customer service, data entry, writing, and content creation with ChatGPT frees up your team’s time for more strategic work. By integrating ChatGPT with your systems and data sources, you can use natural language prompts to automate these tasks.

ChatGPT’s ability to understand text and generate new texts in response is extremely useful. The tool can do things like summarize text, write computer code, spin up poems, write music, create tables, and translate languages — all with just a simple text prompt. However, it’s important to remember that these tools can make mistakes, so you’ll still need to check and edit their outputs.

For instance, when generating marketing materials, you’ll need to ensure that the prompts are clear and structured in a way that ChatGPT will understand. In addition, you’ll need to provide sufficient context and consider the tone of your desired responses (e.g., formal, friendly, or professional). Also, remember that generative AI tools can sometimes produce “AI hallucinations,” which are nonsensical responses that appear as though they were produced by human beings.

4. Schedule meetings

A well-organized daily schedule can improve productivity and efficiency. It can also reduce stress and improve work-life balance. To create a schedule, start by setting goals and prioritizing tasks. Next, organize the list of tasks into a sequence. Finally, review and update the schedule regularly.

Meetings are a big part of any business. They often involve multiple attendees and can be lengthy. Fortunately, there are ways to save time during meetings by using AI tools such as Tactiq and ChatGPT.

Tactiq is a powerful tool that lets you take notes during meetings, summarize meeting transcripts, and identify action items. It also lets you share these key points with participants after the meeting. The tool is powered by OpenAI GPT-4 and is available on Airgram for free.

Alternatively, you can use ChatGPT to summarize transcripts and create an internal knowledge base. For this, you’ll need to provide the AI with a few specific prompts that contain context and descriptors. For example, you can ask it to summarize a meeting transcript by saying: “tell me what happened during the meeting.” You should also provide it with some basic information, such as who spoke and what was discussed.

5. Create a to-do list

Whether you work from home or in a brick-and-mortar office, it’s important to stay organized and productive. With ChatGPT, you can create a to-do list and set reminders to help you meet deadlines. This template allows you to prompt the bot with a description of your project and generate Bubble to-dos for you.

ChatGPT is a large language model, which means it analyzes text and learns how words typically flow. It uses this knowledge to predict what token should come next. This is similar to how predictive text works on your smartphone but on a much larger scale.

Its answers are based on the training it receives, which comes from transcripts and conversations with human trainers. It can also be improved by feedback from users, who can upvote or downvote responses.

For example, you can ask the bot to advise you on task prioritization methods like the Eisenhower Matrix. It will recommend an approach that fits your specific goals and needs. You can even assign a due date and apply task labels to make the process of managing your tasks easier.

6. Create a calendar

If you have a large piece of work that’s giving you a mental block, use ChatGPT to help brainstorm unique ideas. It can also be used to generate answers for FAQs and assist with content strategy.

Whether you’re creating an editorial calendar for your blog or social media, ChatGPT can provide creative prompts that will make it easier to create and publish high-quality content. Simply input your topic, audience, and goals, and ChatGPT will generate a list of ideas that will align with those factors.

Once you’ve finalized your list of ideas, you can ask ChatGPT to create a calendar with the dates and times for each post. You can even specify the type of post, such as a video or a photo. You can even ask for caption suggestions or copywriting phrases to make your posts stand out.

Using AI to make your work life more efficient can increase productivity and reduce stress. ChatGPT can help you manage tasks and keep your work on track, while reducing the amount of time you spend in meetings.

7. Create a task list

ChatGPT can help companies streamline internal communication, enhancing productivity and collaboration. However, it’s important to note that if the training data on which the model is based has any bias, it may be reflected in the responses it provides. Including diverse and representative data can mitigate this risk, while also improving accuracy.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a ton of tasks on your plate, ask ChatGPT for help prioritizing them. It can advise on popular task prioritization methods such as the Eisenhower Matrix or ABCD Method, making it easier to focus on what’s most critical.

Additionally, ChatGPT can help create quizzes and surveys. Simply prompt it to answer questions about a subject and it will automatically generate answers for you. Marketers can then use these answers to develop effective marketing strategies.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can dramatically change your life. It can affect your ability to think and learn, your emotions and feelings, and how well you can do daily activities.

The physical consequences of a TBI depend on what areas of the brain are injured. But most people who have a TBI will experience some weakness on one side of their body or increased clumsiness.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur in any number of ways – from the head being struck by an object, to car accidents or work-related injuries. They are a leading cause of emergency department visits, hospitalizations and deaths. The impact of TBIs on individuals varies greatly, from a simple headache to permanent physical and cognitive disability.

The most serious TBIs can lead to life-threatening blood clots, permanent disability and death. The damage to the brain from a TBI can affect every aspect of an individual’s life, including their quality of sleep, mood and ability to think clearly. It can also have a significant effect on a person’s financial stability, as TBI patients can often lose their jobs and struggle to maintain an income due to the limitations of their injury.

In the past, the idea was that severe TBIs were sudden, brutal events with harsh, long-lasting consequences, but research now shows that chronic outcomes are common even in a proportion of cases previously classified as mild. These chronic consequences carry heavy burdens for patients, their families and society as a whole.

When a person suffers a TBI, the brain is forced to take detours in its efforts to deliver nutrients and oxygen where they are needed. These disruptions can cause a variety of symptoms, including a loss of memory and the inability to plan or solve problems. They can also make it difficult to interact socially and communicate, which can have lasting effects on relationships and self-esteem.

The damage from a TBI can vary by area of the brain. Some examples include contusions, which are bruise-like injuries caused by an impact to the brain and broken blood vessels; diffuse axonal injury, which is shearing and stretching of nerve cell axons at a cellular level; and closed head injury with penetration, in which skull fragments or objects (bullet) penetrate the skull and cause damage to the brain.

Researchers have a better understanding of the lasting effects of TBIs, and are investigating ways to promote the brain’s innate healing abilities, known as neuroplasticity. They are focusing on areas like white matter degradation, protein misfolding and persistent neuroinflammation that result from brain trauma.

Concussions

Getting hit in the head with enough force can cause the brain to rock back and forth or bang against the inside of the skull. This can cause bruising of the brain tissues and swelling, both of which can interfere with how the brain functions.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of concussion and the person. They can include headaches, changes in vision or balance, memory loss and dizziness. In most cases, the symptoms will clear up within a few weeks, but they can also last longer. Repeated concussions are linked to long-lasting problems, such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which can lead to dementia and difficulty thinking, concentrating, remembering and naming things.

The skull is designed to prevent most injuries to the brain, but it can’t prevent all of them. In fact, the blow that causes a concussion can cause microscopic damage to brain cells without any structural damage showing up on a CT scan or X-ray. This can make the brain swell and compress blood vessels, which can cut off the flow of oxygen and glucose to the injured tissues.

It’s important to rest completely after a head injury and to avoid activities that require quick movements or that are physically demanding, because they can increase the risk for another concussion. In rare cases, a second concussion while the brain is still healing can lead to severe, life-threatening swelling known as second impact syndrome (SIS).

Sometimes a TBI can be associated with other injuries, such as facial fractures, limb lesions or amputations, spinal cord injury, ocular damage or pelvic fractures. These can be independent of the TBI or can occur in association with it, affecting quality of life.

The medical community divides TBIs into traumatic and non-traumatic acquired brain injuries. The former results from an outside force hitting the head, while the latter occurs as a result of something “going wrong” with the brain, such as a stroke or vascular problem. However, both types can have the same unpleasant and long-lasting effects. This is why it’s so important to take TBIs seriously, regardless of how they occur.

Secondary Injuries

A Traumatic Brain Injury can cause a variety of different symptoms. Some are immediate and can include unconsciousness, difficulty learning and remembering new information, depression, changes in vision and hearing and unsteadiness or loss of balance.

These symptoms are the result of the body’s natural response to brain trauma. These reactions can take the form of decreases in blood flow, edema, haemorrhage, seizures or ischemia. These reactions occur in the wake of a brain injury because they can block the delivery of fuel to injured areas, so other areas must take up more work and wear out faster.

When the toxins in the bloodstream start to build up, they produce free radicals that can damage the cells of the brain. This can result in a host of symptoms, including dementia, movement disorders and even Alzheimer’s disease years after the initial head trauma.

Some researchers have used the term “secondary injury” to refer to any type of complication that arises in the aftermath of an initial trauma to the brain. While some secondary injuries are associated with a particular TBI, the exact causes remain unclear. The most likely explanation is that an individual’s pre-existing conditions, like drug abuse or severe psychiatric problems, may interfere with the pure effects of a TBI.

A secondary injury may also develop because the brain does not shut off its natural reactions to a head trauma, and these responses can lead to further damage to the brain. For example, the influx of calcium ions that occurs in a TBI can trigger neurotransmitters to be released from one synapse and bind to receptors on neighboring neurons. This can cause an imbalance in the level of glutamate that reaches these receptors, which ultimately leads to ischemia and further injury (Guzman-Lenis et al. 2009).

A TBI can trigger a variety of other secondary injuries, such as problems with vision or hearing, unsteady gait or loss of balance, nausea and vomiting and persistent headaches. A TBI victim should seek medical attention if these symptoms persist, as they can indicate that the condition is progressing. An experienced lawyer can help a victim recover damages for the costs of future medical bills and latent losses that may include lost wages.

Treatment

A traumatic brain injury can occur from blunt trauma to the head, such as a car crash or fall, or from penetrating trauma (such as gunshots and stabbing). When the brain collides with the skull there is often bruising, bleeding, and tearing of nerve fibers. In some cases, the skull may be fractured. If a person has had a TBI, they may be confused or have blurry vision and dizziness. They may also lose consciousness.

TBI can lead to many different symptoms and problems, such as difficulty thinking, memory loss, seizures, changes in mood or behavior, and physical disabilities. Some people with mild TBIs have no problems and recover quickly. Others have more trouble and require longer recovery time. The severity of the injury and how well a person recovers depends on a number of factors, including how long they were unconscious, how severe their injury was, and whether there were any other health problems, such as a stroke, that also occurred with the TBI.

Research is ongoing to understand how TBIs cause these changes in the brain. One study found that a single TBI changes thousands of genes in the hippocampus, which is involved in learning and memory. Another recent study found that TBI can speed up the onset of cognitive impairment in older adults.

People who have a TBI should see their healthcare provider, even if they think the injury was not serious. They should get a medical exam, especially if they have symptoms like loss of consciousness or confusion that do not go away.

All people with a TBI should be evaluated by a healthcare provider who has experience in diagnosing and treating head injuries. The doctor will ask questions about how the injury happened and do a neurological examination to judge the level of consciousness, memory and thinking, hearing, touch, balance and strength and sensation, and gait and coordination. A specialized MRI or CT scan of the brain can also be used to help diagnose and treat brain injuries. In some cases, the doctor will recommend surgery to remove blood clots in the brain (hemorrhage) or to reduce pressure on the brain (edema). Other times, doctors prescribe medications and other treatments for a person with a TBI.

Whether it’s to keep the neighbors’ eyes off your yard or protect your kids and pets, fencing serves many purposes. Fences can also boost your property value and add a picturesque beauty to your outdoor space.

There are many different types of fencing to choose from. Learn more about three popular styles to find the perfect fit for your home: picket, privacy and ranch style.

1. Privacy

Privacy is the state of being free from unwanted or uninvited interference with one’s personal affairs, body, mind and/or property. It is a right that can be violated in many ways, including through technology, such as surveillance cameras and internet browsing history.

A fence can help provide privacy by preventing neighbors and passersby from seeing into your backyard pool, garden or even into your home. It can also block out noise and street traffic.

Fences come in a variety of styles, materials and levels of privacy, so choose carefully. Brick fences are solid and highly private, while aluminium and vinyl fences have slats with gaps that may allow neighbors to peek in. Planting trees, shrubs and bushes along your property line can create a natural privacy fence as well. These can be a great alternative to a wood or metal fence and are low-maintenance as well. Other options include wrought iron, which is sturdy but expensive, or composite fencing, which looks like wood but doesn’t require any painting or staining.

2. Security

A fence serves as a visual deterrent for potential burglars and vandals. It also provides an extra layer of security for people who have expensive items in their yard, such as a hot tub or pool.

A security fence can be made more attractive by adding custom gates and other details that match your home’s style. This customization adds value to the property and makes it more appealing for people who are interested in buying your home.

A good security fence will also include motion sensors that are connected to the fence. These will detect any unauthorized activity and trigger loud alarms to scare off the trespasser. This can buy you time to assess the situation and take precautionary measures or notify the authorities. This is especially important in commercial properties, where a trespasser can cause costly damage or steal equipment. This can be an effective complement to other security measures such as cameras and alarm systems.

3. Animal Control

Fencing acts as a deterrent to burglars, keeping your home and family safe from trespassers. It also protects your yard from wildlife and prevents them from running into the street, as well as provides a safe place for pets to play. Some homeowners worry that fences destroy the natural landscape and detract from the beauty of their home, but a well-designed wooden cedar or vinyl fence can blend in beautifully with your landscaping, giving you the best of both worlds.

If you live in an area prone to harsh weather, a fence will help keep your plants and garden protected. A good quality wood fence can also withstand the elements, and with proper maintenance, can last for years. To keep your wood fence looking beautiful, stain it regularly to remove dirt and mildew, and re-stain every couple of years to prevent warping or cracking. A to Z Quality Fencing offers high-quality wood fencing that looks great for years to come.

4. Increased Curb Appeal

A fence is a great way to enhance the appearance of your home and add curb appeal. You can choose from a variety of styles, colors and materials to suit your taste. A fence also adds a level of security to your property and keeps out trespassers. Fences can also help to reduce noise pollution from traffic and neighbouring homes.

A new fence will increase your curb appeal and add to the value of your home. It will also keep out trespassers and wild animals, making your home feel more secure. A fence can also be used to hide items in your yard, such as trash cans or air conditioning units.

Fences are often made from wood, such as cedar or pressure-treated pine. Cedar is a good choice because it is insect-resistant, rot-resistant, and has a natural pleasant scent. It also lasts longer than other types of wood and requires less maintenance. Vinyl picket fencing is another option, as it is durable and looks like wood.

5. Noise Reduction

Fencing helps to reduce noise pollution by providing a sound barrier. This benefit can be particularly useful for homeowners located near busy streets, airports or industrial districts. A fence company Dallas can provide you with the fence you need for your home to eliminate unnecessary noise outside your house.

Adding fencing to your home can help to create a visual deterrent that will make burglars think twice about attempting to enter your property. In addition, fences can also help to contain pets and children so they don’t wander into traffic or stray animals.

While thick curtains can help to reduce the amount of road noise that comes into a home, fencing is a much more effective method of eliminating noise pollution. Similarly, moving away from noisy areas would qualify as another practical way to reduce noise pollution. The good news is that a new fence is usually more affordable than moving! Moreover, the sound absorbing properties of vinyl and wood privacy fences provide additional noise reduction benefits. They can also provide a classy look that can improve the overall aesthetics of your property.

6. Increased Property Value

A fence is an excellent way to add value to your home, as it increases the curb appeal of your house and can increase the property value of your land. It can also make it easier to maintain your yard, as it can help keep unwanted debris and weeds out of your yard, making it less time-consuming to mow the lawn or tend to garden beds.

Additionally, a fence can protect your home and family from burglars by acting as a deterrent to people who may be considering breaking into your house. It can also help keep animals such as coyotes away from your family while they are playing outside.

If you’re thinking of putting your house on the market, fencing for your home is an excellent way to improve the curb appeal and increase the property value of your land. Contact A to Z Quality Fencing today to learn more about the fencing options available to you and get a free quote.

7. Aesthetics

Fencing can enhance the beauty of your property and help you define boundaries without detracting from its natural features. It can also add design elements to a yard and garden.

A wooden fence is a popular choice because it blends in well with the landscape and can be painted or stained in any color. Wood fencing is also a good option for those who have children because it can help keep them safe and prevent them from wandering off.

There are several different types of wood fencing, including board-on-board and lattice fences. A board-on-board fence consists of pickets that overlap one another, which provides privacy and looks attractive from both sides. A lattice fence combines a series of thin slats with a solid top to create a decorative and functional fence that allows airflow. You should choose the style of your fence according to the style of your home. For example, a picket fence will look out of place in front of a ranch or cabin style house.

8. Increased Value of Your Home

A well-maintained fence can add value to your home. It can be a major selling point for potential buyers and also defines your property line. It will prevent your kids and pets from wandering over into your neighbor’s yards.

A picket fence is a great choice for homeowners who want a classic look. This type of fence offers plenty of design options and materials. Cypress wood is a popular option due to its insect-repelling properties and natural pleasant scent. Wrought iron is another option that adds a touch of class to your yard. For a more modern look, consider composite fencing. It combines wood fibers with plastic polymers and isn’t affected by insects or rot.

A fence is a necessary addition to any home. It offers many benefits that can help improve your quality of life and make it easier to enjoy your property. To get the most out of your investment, be sure to consider all of your options.

9. Safety

Fencing can prevent people from trespassing on your property, as well as provide added security against break-ins. It can also mark boundaries and help prevent disputes with neighbors about where the property line begins and ends.

A simple vinyl privacy fence is ideal for keeping nosy neighbors out of your yard. These fences have tall panels that block your view and can be installed horizontally or vertically to suit your space.

Wood fences are also an excellent choice for homeowners looking to keep animals out of the yard — but small creatures can squeeze through the gaps between pickets. Ask your fencing contractor about options that offer more animal control, such as a board-on-board or overlapping fence design.

Fencing isn’t just a physical workout; it’s also a mental exercise that requires a great deal of focus and attention. The fast-paced action and strategic decision-making required by this sport is perfect for lowering stress levels and improving cognitive functions like memory and concentration.

As a whole, beauty trends tend to be cyclical. It’s not unusual for timeless silhouettes to resurface every few years or for era-defining accessories like clogs to come back into fashion.

But some makeup artists are not fond of certain popular looks, including overlined lips and sculpted contouring. Insider spoke with eight professional makeup artists about the trends they wish would disappear.

Blurred lip lining

Blurred lip lining is one of most popular Tiktok trend. It’s a less-polished, more relaxed version of the popsicle lipstick trend that focuses on achieving a diffused look rather than a defined, crisp line. The result is a more natural, youthful appearance. It’s the perfect option for people who don’t like to wear a full face of makeup or have trouble applying a liquid liner with precision.

The technique requires a bit of practice but is easy to master. First, apply a matte foundation to moisturized skin. Then, use a foundation brush or sponge to blend it in. Finally, apply a light pink eyeshadow to the center of the lids. You can use a powder or cream formula. Then, add a blush in a similar shade. Finish the look with a highlighter or bronzer on your cheeks.

Another makeup technique that is taking over TikTok is smudge-proof eyeshadow. It’s a simple and effective way to create a subtle, yet striking look that won’t budge throughout the day. It’s also great for women with sensitive eyes. This trend is a welcome departure from the glitter and gem-adorned looks that have become prevalent on social media. If you are looking for 2022’s standout beauty trends, you need to check out the link to learn more!

A more relaxed style that’s gaining popularity on TikTok is “barely there makeup,” says Greenberg. “People want their makeup to look like their own skin, not a mask of heavy products.” To achieve this look, choose a lightweight foundation and concealer with a radiant, skin-like finish. For the lips, use a hydrating balm or gloss in a matching shade to your natural color.

Monochrome makeup

One of the most popular makeup trends of this year is monochromatic makeup. This beauty technique involves using the same color on different parts of your face, such as lips, cheeks, and eyes. It’s an easy way to create a look that’s chic and cohesive. Whether you’re looking for a fresh rosy pink theme or a rich brown vibe, there’s a monochromatic makeup shade for everyone.

Using the same color for your eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush can make your skin appear healthier. It’s also a great way to create a more natural and subtle look. You can use a matte lip, a cream blush, or a shimmery eyeshadow to complete your monochromatic makeup look. The best part is that you can achieve this look with products you already have in your beauty arsenal.

This year’s latest beauty trend is the warm-toned monochromatic aesthetic. This beauty trend features a monochromatic palette of warm tones, such as terracottas, nudes, and pinks. It is a soft glam style that is perfect for the fall season. This trend is gaining popularity on social media, and you can see it in the TikTok videos of beauty influencers like Meredith Duxbury and Victoria Lyn.

You can also experiment with monochromatic makeup looks by mixing different textures and finishes. For example, you can combine a metallic liquid liner with a matte lipstick to create a monochromatic look. You can also use a glitter powder eyeshadow on your lips and cheeks for a more dramatic look. The monochromatic makeup trend can range from subtle and elegant to bold and bright, depending on the color you choose. You can even try a monochromatic look with a neutral shade, such as taupe or ivory.

Minimalistic nail designs

Minimalist nail designs are perfect if you love your nails to look pretty but don’t have the time or patience for intricate and colorful looks. From fun twists on the classic French manicure to simple yet chic wavy swirls, these swoon-worthy looks will have your nails looking chic and beautiful without going overboard.

One of our favorite minimalist nail looks is a simple striped design that adds some interest and style to your nails. This simple yet stylish look combines a neutral color with a dainty stripe of contrasting color, like pink or black. The stripe is so thin and delicate that it doesn’t overwhelm the natural color of your nails, making it the ultimate in minimal nail art.

A subtle ombre polish effect is another simple yet beautiful way to make your nails look modern and stylish. Instead of a full, bright colored polish, this ombre nail look features a natural shade that gradually fades into white at the tips. This is a great way to add some color without overwhelming your nails with too much brightness.

If you want to go a little more minimal but don’t want to give up on the idea of color, try out a unique french tip with an outline in a bold shade like this electric blue. The bold hue is still soft enough to look modern and a little bit cool, so it’s a great way to add some color to your nails without being too flashy.

Another fun way to add a little bit of sparkle to your nails is by using the glazed donut nail trend that made a firestorm on TikTok. This look adds cute emojis, small flowers or rhinestones to your basic polish and is an easy and fun way to make your nails more interesting without adding too much color or intricate details.

Red lipstick

There’s a reason red lipstick is one of the most iconic makeup techniques in history—it’s a symbol of empowerment. It’s the go-to lip color for a long list of powerful women, including Margaret Thatcher, Madonna, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. It’s also a go-to look for stylish real-life women everywhere, whether they’re wearing a dress to a work event or a T-shirt and jeans on the weekend.

The shade you choose and how you apply your lipstick are both important factors in determining how striking your final look will be. Achieving the perfect crimson hue can take some trial and error, but once you find the right shade for your skin tone, it’s easy to fall in love with. Depending on your style, you might prefer a matte finish or a more glossy formula.

When it comes to the application technique, using a lip brush can help you achieve a more precise look. You can also use a liner to add extra definition to your lips and create a more structured look. It’s also important to remember to exfoliate before applying your lipstick so it doesn’t cling to dry spots.

Natural brows

One of the biggest eyebrow trends of 2023 is a natural look that will enhance your brow shape. This is a great alternative to microblading or machine hairstrokes, and it will give you a subtle, shadowy effect that darkens and shapes your brows. You can also use powders that are a shade darker than your natural brow color to add shadows.

Another option is to choose a makeup brush or pencil that is close to your natural brow hair color. However, it is important to avoid using a lighter color, as this will look more like makeup than a natural brow.

It is also important to keep in mind that the best eyebrow shapes for your face will depend on your facial shape and the shape of your eyes. A squarer shape can make your face look more masculine, while a more rounded shape will make your face look softer. It is a good idea to avoid a droopy tail or overextending the brow, as this will draw attention away from your eyes and nose.

One of the newest makeup techniques that is taking over is a semi-permanent tattooing technique called microblading. This advanced procedure involves inserting pigment into the dermal layer of the skin using a handheld device that contains fine needles. The result is the appearance of real hair strokes, which looks very natural and will last for about a year.

This eyebrow tattoo technique is the latest trend in cosmetics, and it counts celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Dua Lipa among its fans. The treatment is simple and painless, and it can be used to fix a misshapen eyebrow or create a fuller appearance. It also helps to fill gaps and add depth to the brows, making them appear more textured.

Steps towards mental wellness can improve energy and concentration, boost mood, strengthen relationships and even increase immunity. Here are nine tips to get there:

Create an environment of positive people – this may include cutting ties with those who drain your emotions.

1. Get enough sleep

Sleep is essential to mental wellbeing. It allows the brain to process emotions and recharge after a busy day. Without enough rest, your memory could suffer; concentration could become difficult; and decision-making abilities could become impaired.

Prioritise getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night by cutting caffeine consumption for several hours prior to sleeping and following a relaxing bedtime ritual like taking a hot bath, reading or meditation before heading off to bed. Also avoiding screens before bed may help speed up the process.

People with strong mental health are better able to deal with stress, change and disappointment more effectively; this ability is called resilience. Unfortunately, having strong mental health does not guarantee you won’t encounter emotional or mental problems; everyone experiences setbacks; it is normal to experience sadness or anxiety from time to time – the key lies in finding healthy ways of coping and seeking assistance when needed.

2. Eat healthy

Food plays a direct effect on mental health. A poor diet can contribute to weight gain, fatigue and depression while eating too little can be counter-productive and lead to fatigue and anxiety. Aim to include plenty of fruits, vegetables and healthy fats while drinking lots of water daily for maximum mental wellness.

Physical activity has also been proven to enhance mental wellbeing. Exercise gets your heart racing, triggers endorphins and lowers cortisol, the stress hormone. Aim to incorporate at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day–be it walking to work, going for a run, or simply climbing stairs!

Caring for your mental wellness doesn’t have to mean being blissfully happy all of the time; rather, it involves developing healthy habits that will enable you to navigate life’s ups and downs with greater ease. Begin small and build these practices gradually – it’s never too late to put mental wellness first! For more information please check out our Mental Wellness Series.

3. Exercise

Researchers have long recognized the many physical health benefits associated with exercise. Even moderate physical activity can improve mood, ease anxiety and boost energy levels; plus it improves sleep, provides a sense of accomplishment and can even help manage stress.

No gym membership or running miles on end are needed to experience the mental health benefits of exercise; even 30 minutes of physical activity five times each week may be enough. Begin slowly and build gradually until your body can handle more.

Schedule your workouts during times when you have the most energy, such as first thing in the morning or at lunchtime before mid-afternoon lull. Make it more of a social event by exercising with friends or your children; this could make sticking with your exercise goals easier.

4. Take care of your body

Body is an effective means to aid mental wellbeing. Sleeping enough, eating healthily and exercising regularly are all proven strategies to relieve stress, boost concentration and energy, as well as improve mood and energy.

These steps to mental wellness may not be the only solutions, but they’re certainly essential starting points. If you’re finding it hard to strike a balance, speaking to a counsellor might also help.

Do not overlook the importance of self-esteem and having a supportive network for mental health and wellness. People with strong mental health can overcome disappointments and losses more easily and bounce back more easily from stress, anxiety and emotional problems – this is known as resilience. This doesn’t mean they won’t ever experience emotional issues or tough times – everyone goes through these things at some point – but those with stronger resilience tend to handle these things better and feel happier overall in life.

5. Seek help

Steps towards wellness can make a significant impact in your life, but many still require assistance managing their mental health issues. If no matter what efforts are put forth to enhance mood or coping abilities, professional assistance might be required to reach optimal wellbeing.

Talking with a therapist such as the Center for Mental Wellness in San Diego doesn’t need to be daunting; studies reveal it actually helps improve coping and reduce stress, providing tools necessary for life’s challenges. Finding the appropriate treatment plan is key if you are struggling with depression, anxiety or eating disorders – there’s no shame in seeking assistance and it could have an enormously positive effect on the quality of your life.

6. Keep a diary

Journaling can be an essential element in maintaining mental wellness. Writing can help clarify thoughts and regulate emotions, promote self-reflection and personal growth as well as problem-solving skills.

Journaling can be used for all sorts of topics – from everyday mundane things to your deepest feelings and thoughts. Consider adding in a daily gratitude practice whereby you write down three things each night that make you thankful.

Journaling can provide valuable perspectives on situations causing you stress and anxiety, and reduce rumination – the negative thought pattern associated with negative thinking patterns. When journaling it’s also important to record positive experiences so when looking back you feel an overall sense of healing and accomplishment. Starting journaling may seem intimidating but making it a regular habit will bring many long-term mental health benefits.

7. Practice gratitude

Studies show that people who practice gratitude experience better mental health, including lower stress levels and increased self-esteem. Being thankful can especially benefit those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes or HIV infection.

Moskowitz works with those afflicted by illness or who are dealing with loved ones who are sick or dying to help them incorporate gratitude into their daily routines. She emphasizes the need for authenticity when approaching gratitude – tapping it does not equate to accepting bad behaviors or dismissing how harsh some experiences have been.

There are various ways to express our appreciation, from writing a thank-you note or keeping a gratitude journal, but Dr. Brandon advises finding one that works for you and committing at least six weeks for real results.

8. Make time for yourself

Work, family, and daily living responsibilities can take their toll, but it’s essential to set aside some time just for you. Even small steps like taking 15-minute walks a day or journaling for 10 minutes every night can have a major impact on our mental wellbeing over time.

Leisure time is an integral component of emotional and mental wellbeing, so it is vital that you spend time doing things you enjoy – such as watching an amusing film, walking in nature, listening to music or spending quality time with loved ones and friends.

Positive people and environments are important in order to feel well, so be sure you get enough sleep (7 to 9 hours each night), avoid violent movies or upsetting news reports, and follow people on social media who bring value into your life. In addition, learn when it’s necessary to say no and set healthy boundaries for yourself.

9. Talk to someone

One of the best things you can do to support your mental health is talking with someone. This doesn’t have to be done through professional services (although that may be best in certain instances); simply telling someone trustworthy that you feel under-par can help tremendously.

Assimilating someone who understands your context can be extremely useful. Furthermore, joining a peer support group could also prove valuable.

Sometimes when opening up to someone, they may not listen or dismiss your feelings as silly or not real. If this occurs, try keeping the conversation going by explaining that their reaction could be due to cultural expectations or fear of upsetting you; if they continue not listening offer to connect them with a mental health professional.

Schools need to work with their communities to keep their students safe. This requires mental health services, guidance counselors and emergency response plans.

In addition to school resource officers, many City schools have School Safety Agents — police-trained individuals who can give safety lectures and mentor students. These professionals should receive extensive training on de-escalating hostility and conflict resolution.

Invest in Traffic Calming Measures

Despite the recent national focus on school safety, decisions about local security initiatives remain in the hands of state and local leaders. Fortunately, federal programs currently allow schools to use some funding to support resources like school resource officers, drug and violence prevention, and crisis training for teachers and staff. New proposals would expand eligible uses of education funding for school safety, but the vast majority of money still needs to come from local sources.

School zone traffic calming is essential to safe routes for students, and can include a range of engineering, enforcement and education approaches. Some of the most effective measures are low cost, such as painted markings and driver feedback signs indicating a reduced speed limit in school zones. Other options include traffic circles, diverters that route vehicles around a school to reduce through traffic, and paving sidewalks to give pedestrians a protected path to the school.

To maximize impact, school community members should identify and work with school officials to prioritize school traffic safety improvement projects. Projects should focus on “primary investment routes,” which are streets that have the greatest number of students walking on them to access a school. These streets are selected through a process that includes a computer model and public input via open houses, parent surveys, and review with school leadership.

Many school safety concerns cited by parents relate to the street environment in which children walk. In some neighborhoods, parents worry that there are not enough sidewalks, that the road is too congested, or that crossing conditions are unsafe. In other areas, parents fear the presence of strangers or car crime.

Working with city engineers, communities can use a variety of calming strategies to slow down cars in the school zone and improve pedestrian safety. These can include speed bumps, narrowing of the roadway with raised table or humps, and traffic circles that require drivers to maneuver and take a longer view of the road.

Some cities also deploy a variety of visual warning signals, including flashing rectangular beacons in unsignalized crosswalks, and lighted flashing school buses to warn motorists. For more extensive improvements, communities can invest in capital reconstruction to alter the layout and geometry of a street. This type of project often takes years to complete and can be costly.

Educate Teenagers About Personal Safety

In the wake of high profile acts of violence, children and teenagers are likely to feel confused, frightened or worried about their own safety at school. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. It’s important to reassure them that schools are among the safest places for children and they should never let news events make them feel unsafe.

It is also important to educate teenagers about personal safety, particularly the dangers of drowsy driving. Teens are often busy with extracurricular activities, part-time jobs and spending time with friends and may sacrifice sleep for these obligations. This can lead to dangerous drowsy driving, which has been linked to many fatal and injury crashes.

Teaching teens about the risks of drowsy driving, as well as underage drinking, can help reduce these statistics. Parents should talk to their teens about these issues and help them find ways to prioritize sleep to avoid drowsy driving.

Educating teenagers about other safety concerns, such as stranger danger, is also vital. This can be done through classroom lessons and community events. School safety resources, such as the Say Something program for students and Being a Trusted Adult for adults who work in a school, can help with this education.

Schools can also encourage parents to participate by discussing their school’s safety policies and procedures with them. They can also listen to the parents’ feedback and provide them with the tools they need to help keep their children safe.

Many schools struggle to balance the needs of students and community safety. This is particularly true in urban communities with limited resources. However, there are several ways that community members and local elected officials can collaborate with school leaders to address these concerns.

For example, local leaders can make use of federal programs that allow them to direct some K-12 education funding toward school safety initiatives such as drug and violence prevention programs, crisis training for staff and student support services. They can also partner with law enforcement to support school safety. For example, some schools are hiring law enforcement officers to act as “School Resource Officers.” This provides an additional layer of security and helps to deter crime in the immediate vicinity of the school.

Partner with Law Enforcement

School safety requires a community-wide approach. Students, teachers, parents, and law enforcement must work together to develop a plan that can prevent incidents from occurring as well as keep the community safe in the event of an emergency. To build a community of support, schools should be transparent and open about their school safety policies and procedures. This allows everyone to understand the school’s commitment to safety, as well as their role in preventing and responding to an incident. There must be a comprehensive way to solve school security issues in order to provide a better school environment for students.

Unfortunately, it’s clear that many parents feel disconnected from their school’s safety policies. In fact, a recent survey by Raptor Technologies and Safe and Sound Schools found that 40% of parents don’t believe their school listens to them about how they could improve safety measures. This is a problem, especially since schools need parental support to implement effective strategies that promote a culture of respect and belonging for all youth.

It is crucial that all adults in the school community be aware of their role in maintaining a safe school environment and are trained to recognize warning signs. In addition, it is important that school leaders and staff be able to report threats or suspicious activity to local law enforcement agencies.

Currently, in New York City, there are about 175 School Safety Agents (SSAs) in public schools, who are primarily police officers who have received training at the Police Academy on issues including de-escalation and conflict resolution. They are also responsible for addressing a range of school-based issues such as bullying and drug use. In addition to partnering with NYPD on school safety initiatives, SSAs can help create and sustain a safe school environment by working with other local partners such as counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals.

It is critical for schools to partner with law enforcement in a manner that promotes the community’s safety and supports all students to achieve their highest potential. This is best done by implementing the principles of community policing in schools, which is an effective, non-confrontational, and positive way to interact with youth. It is also essential that school leaders and the community be aware of all the resources available to them, including federal programs that fund activities such as threat assessment, resource officer programs, school-based violence prevention, and crisis intervention training for schools.

Invest in School Bus Safety

The safety of school buses is a critical part of keeping students and staff safe. Every vehicle has to pass stringent tests from expert engineers and regulators before it is allowed to ferry children to and from school.

School communities can work with local bus companies to promote school safety initiatives and improve community relationships. They can also install traffic calming measures near schools, including speed bumps, crosswalks and traffic signals, to slow down vehicles and make it safer for pedestrians.

Schools can also invest in school bus technology, such as GPS tracking and cameras that record events. These systems can be used to identify unsafe behaviors and provide real-time feedback on driver behavior. Schools can also work with law enforcement to identify individuals who are posing a threat and seek an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) under the State’s Red Flag law.

In New York City, school safety agents and NYPD officers intervene in behavioral incidents at schools about 50 times per day. [lxxxi] These incidents include arrests, summonses, child in crisis events, juvenile reports and mitigated events. [lxxxii] Using data from the first quarter of 2018, we know that law enforcement interventions at schools are declining, but still far too many students and their families have to deal with the aftermath of these encounters.

Investing in community-based solutions that help schools and students address their safety concerns can support greater equity, social justice and resilience. Reimagining school safety as a positive—instead of a negative—can help schools and their communities partner effectively to create the best possible learning environment.

The federal government has several programs that can be used to fund school safety strategies. For example, the Department of Justice has Community Oriented Policing Services grants that can be used to hire police resource officers in schools. Similarly, the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Program, authorized in Title IV of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, can be used to pay for things like mental health support services for students. The Trump administration has also been pushing for funding to upgrade school buildings and clean up indoor air quality in classrooms.

Dreams involving giants are signs that important changes will soon take place in both your personal and professional life.

Giants are powerful creatures who resemble people but are much larger and stronger. They appear in legends and mythology of many cultures, often forcing humans away for their own safety.

They are a symbol of strength

Dreams involving giants often symbolize strength and power. Dreaming of seeing one may reassure you of your ability to overcome any challenge, provide protection from an unseen source or send a spiritual message; or it could serve as a warning that something needs to change within yourself – perhaps feeling overwhelmed in daily life is signalling you that taking steps toward better health care should be a top priority.

Dreams that depict giants can be taken as an omen that your environment is full of caring people that support and love you, helping to achieve your goals and dreams. Or it may symbolize someone or some situation preventing progress; even more often it could symbolize fearful or angry memories related to adult people that emerged when you first met them as children.

Dreams in which you’re being Attacked by Giants may be an indicator that you are experiencing too much emotional or physical strain; this could be related to relationships, careers or family situations which have become too big to handle for you. If the giant in question was human-shaped it may symbolize your power or strength or make you feel invincible; alternatively it could indicate that you’ve grown too much since childhood and no longer control over your emotions or actions.

Dreams that include giants are often symbolic of personal power and control; killing one in your dream signifies your ability to stay in balance with your surroundings while managing emotions in a healthy manner. Dreaming about taking down giant items that appear out of nowhere indicates you need to become more independent while having greater confidence in your abilities; these dreams could also serve as reminders that it’s important to distinguish yourself from peers or coworkers as a warning against bullying behavior.

They are a symbol of power

Dreams in which giants appear often symbolize your desire for greater power; specifically that of your father or other male authority figures. Or it could simply represent relationship challenges you are struggling to meet – which could be an indicator that life demands are becoming too much to bear for you to manage.

Dreams in which you find yourself either killing or being attacked by giants portend that you will soon experience a major shift in your life, perhaps from overcoming obstacles or realizing it is time to submit to fate’s flow. Furthermore, giants may reflect how much work has been burdensome on you so this could be an indicator to take a break and recharge your batteries.

Dreams that involve you trying to escape impending threats could be an indicator that you fear change and are struggling with meeting the challenges of life. Your angelic guardians want you to remember to set aside more time for yourself; specifically balancing work and play should be your goal.

Dreams that feature giant animals often depict something powerful or menacing, while at other times they could signal spiritual advancement and potential. If your dream involves friendly giant animals it could mean you have the strength and courage to face your fears; to understand this symbolism accurately you should evaluate context and emotions associated with the dream.

Dreams featuring giants may represent relationships or power struggles; for instance, seeing an enormous animal may represent troubled relationships with your parents or authority figures in your life, while being chased by one may symbolize feelings of inferiority or powerlessness in yourself. Additionally, seeing one trampling an innocent village could be seen as a warning that you are too weak to cope with problems of this magnitude.

They are a symbol of protection

Giants are massive creatures found throughout mythology and legends of many cultures. They’re commonly depicted as both protective and aggressive figures who share strong ties to nature – dreaming about giants can be taken as a sign that your power to overcome challenges is greater than you ever realized, as well as an encouragement that you have the strength and power within to shield yourself against negative forces in your life. Psychic Blaze provides an in-depth explanation of what this dream of yours means.

Dreams involving giants may symbolize feelings of being overwhelmed by an overwhelming situation that seems out of your reach. Such dreams should serve as a warning that it’s best to stay grounded and find ways to manage emotions when it comes to relationships, while it could also indicate you are surrounded by people who support your efforts and want you to succeed.

Dreams in which giants attack you symbolize being attacked by the Ego and can lead to self-sabotage, and you should seek ways to stay clear from dark energies by remaining positive and staying connected with spiritual elements that can assist you with facing this challenge.

Dreams that feature friendly giants often portend good fortune and success for you in business and life. Additionally, meeting friendly individuals may help alleviate current struggles or introduce you to influential social circles that will change the course of your future.

Dreams in which giants chase you could be an omen that something is amiss in your personal life; to solve it on your own is likely not an option. Instead, learning to accept assistance from others and let go of pride could help. If two giants appear together fighting, that could indicate financial distress – watch out for people trying to take advantage of you.

Dreams featuring giant women often represent mother figures in your life and represent important symbols for health and family life, while simultaneously representing protection at home.

They are a symbol of fear

Giants are often depicted as powerful and strong beings who serve as protectors in our dreams. Giants serve as symbols of our inner power and strength and the ability to overcome obstacles in our life. Dreams involving giants may also serve as warnings against dangerous or risky endeavors, like speculation investments. If these dreams involve negative giants, they could indicate you’re being threatened by something out of your control that’s out of reach of control. Dreams that involve being chased by an enormous creature often reflect feelings of anxiety and helplessness, with dreamers feeling powerless against an unstoppable force. Such dreams could also represent feeling overpowered in some other aspect of their life such as jobs or relationships.

Dreams in which friendly giants appear can be taken as an omen that you are safe and confident that you have the capacity to tackle whatever comes your way. They may also symbolize feelings of power or powerlessness; especially if the giants appear aggressive. Additionally, this dream may signal your desire to exert yourself over others – something which may either be healthy or unhealthy response.

Dreams featuring giant monsters may also be taken as an indicator of fear or insecurity, perhaps related to negative childhood associations with adults or a strong desire for power over others. The size of your dream monster may indicate the intensity of these feelings.

Dreams involving killing a giant are an often recurring motif and can represent multiple meanings. Most commonly, it symbolizes your personal power and ability to influence those around you; or it could represent success in certain aspects of life such as finances or business; alternatively it could indicate you’re fighting an adversary that threatens you directly.