Monday, June 27, 2011

Parents of Young Accident Survivor Salute Town

 Kick-off Hempstead’s Car Seat Safety Program


Peter Carbonaro of Oceanside offered some fatherly advice to parents who plan to drive with a baby or child in their motor vehicle: “make sure to have a car seat properly installed, it can be a lifesaver.”

Mr. Carbonaro’s young son, Christian, survived a car rollover accident shortly after having the town install a car seat in the family’s vehicle. Mr. Carbonaro, his wife, Laura Francoeur, and their son joined Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray, Councilman Anthony Santino, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Councilwoman Angie Cullin, Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin, Town Clerk Mark Bonilla and Dr. Clara Mayoral of South Nassau Communities Hospital as the town kicked off a series of car seat safety inspection events that will take place at various town parks across Hempstead Township throughout the spring and summer seasons.

“We are thrilled that Mr. Carbonaro’s decision to utilize our free car seat safety program may have saved his son’s life,” Murray said. “The town’s certified technicians will teach parents and guardians how to properly secure your loved ones in their car seats.”

In August 2010, Mr. Carbonaro and Ms. Francoeur took their month-old son to Oceanside Park for a town Child Car Seat Safety Inspection. The town’s certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians performed an inspection and properly installed the car seat for the family.

The decision to get a car seat inspection came into play a few months later, in March 2011, when Mr. Carbonaro’s car flipped over in an accident near his Oceanside home. Though Mr. Carbonaro had minor injuries, Christian, seven months old at the time, escaped unscathed without a scratch on him.

“On behalf of my family, I wanted to express my sincere thanks to the Town of Hempstead for this safety program,” Mr. Carbonaro said. “I am convinced it made the difference in keeping our baby safe and healthy.”

With car seat safety laws and policies are rapidly changing, the experts from Hempstead Town’s Department of Public Safety are here to educate and alleviate the concerns of parents who strive for the highest level of car seat safety for their children.

`“Hempstead Town keeps in mind the safety of residents of all ages,” Cullin said. “In this case, the town is offering a free service that helps ensure the safety of young children in automobiles. Our certified technicians provide a full inspection that includes proper installation and peace of mind for parents and guardians.”

Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics released stricter guidelines for parents and guardians that could change the way they buckle up their children. According to the new AAP policy, parents are advised to keep toddlers in rear-facing car seats until the age of 2, or until they reach the maximum height and weight for their seat. Also, AAP recommends that children ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until they reach four feet, nine inches tall and are between the ages of 8 and 12. The AAP’s 2011 policies were updated to enhance safety from previous guidelines set in 2002.

“I commend Christian’s parents for fulfilling the most important responsibility of a parent when driving a car, which is to keep your child safe,” said Dr. Mayoral. “The type of seat a child requires depends on several factors, including size and age. The AAP’s website, healthychildren.org, provides in-depth guidance on selecting the most appropriate car safety seat for a child.”

New York State’s current Child Restraint Law, which went into effect in 2009, requires that children must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system while riding a motor vehicle until they reach their eighth birthday. Other state law requirements include:

- An appropriate child restraint system is one that meet’s the child’s size and weight and the specifications of the manufacturer.

- A child restraint system may be a child safety seat, harness, vest or a booster seat.

- The vehicle’s safety belt alone is not a child restraint system.

- Booster seats must be used with a lap and a shoulder belt.

- Children 12 years and younger should ride in the back seat. According to statistics released by the state government, properly buckling up children in the back seat reduces the risk of being killed in a crash by 33 percent.

By appointment only, certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will inspect and properly install child car safety seats and instruct guardians on their proper installation. These potentially life-saving inspections generally last about 30 minutes.

“It takes only 30 minutes to ensure the safety of our children, our future,” Goosby said. “Take advantage of our free service and make an appointment today.”

This summer, through Oct. 6, the Child Car Seat Safety Inspection Program schedule will be expanded, with events being held across Hempstead Town. Upcoming Child Safety Seat inspection events include: June 11 at Baldwin Park, June 15 and 16 at Rath Park in Franklin Square, June 22 and 23 at Forest City Community Park in Wantagh and June 29 and 30 at Levittown Hall in Levittown. After Oct. 6, the fall and winter schedule resumes, when inspections are available on most Wednesdays at Speno Park in East Meadow by appointment only.

“We encourage families to schedule an appointment this summer at one of the Town’s Child Car Seat Safety events,” Santino said. “The safety of our children is of the utmost importance. Our certified technicians are here to guide parents and guardians to ensure a safer ride for all children.”

To schedule an appointment, call (516) 538-1900, extension 217, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or visit www.TOH.LI.

Friday, June 24, 2011

Silver Alert

The Silver Alert Program has been established in order to disseminate immediate information to local media, hospitals and other organizations when a senior citizen or other individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other cognitive disorders goes missing



Rose Foster
Age 14
Race African American
Sex F
Height 5 3
Weight 90 Lbs.
Hair Brown
Eyes Brown

PHYSICAL CONDITION GOOD,
MENTAL IS POOR. BIPOLAR,
TAKES MEDICATION ABILIFY BUT HAS NOT TAKEN IT FOR A MONTH.

LAST SEEN AT JUMPING OUT OF MOTHER'S AUTO AT INTERSECTION OF DUTCH BROADWAY/ELMONT ROAD, ELMONT ON 6/24/2011 AT 11:58 WEARING BLK HOODIE TOP, LARGE BLUE JNS, WHITE SNEAKERS CARRYING A PINK PLASTIC BAG TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND TOWARD LINDEN BLVD, ELMONT BY FOOT

Thursday, June 16, 2011

POP Officers Reassigned

As you might have read in this weeks Newsday, all POP Units of the Nassau County Police Department have been severely cut. Officers have been reassigned to other positions in the Department.
It has been a humbling experience to have worked with the Officers of the 5th Precinct POP Unit. POP stands for Problem Oriented Policing. The 5th Precinct POP Unit consisted of 4 officers and one supervisor who handle quality of life issues and work very closely with the schools and community. The Unit is now down to one officer and one  Supervisor.

I didn’t realize the scope of their jobs until I began working with them to produce this Blog as a tool to increase communication with the schools and community.

Our POP Unit Officers care for the students they encounter. As parents themselves they bring a genuine concern for the youth of our area.

Our officers have direct contact with the Superintendent’s and Principal’s of each school, in each School District, often exchanging cell phone numbers to be available on a minutes notice. When any need would arise for a student to be helped, these officers are known to diffuse the situation with a personal response to help the student and advisor for the best possible outcome.

Our officers attend many community meetings and sometimes became members of our local community organizations themselves such as Sgt. Grimm who is a Board Member of the Gateway Youth Outreach. He helped to start a program to help children everyday afterschool to study, tutor and help with homework. Other officers have joined the Valley Stream Youth Council and Envision Valley Stream a grassroots effort started by young adults living in Valley Stream.  Helping to keep us informed of local Police Activity, officers also provided a voice for our concerns reporting it back to the precinct commander for further evaluation.

They lecture and educate our students and PTA’s. Speak at Civic Meetings, to local business and church groups.

Our officers present Scouting Awards to the local youth whose hard work and efforts have earned them the Highest Awards in Scouting the Girl Scout Gold Award and Boy Scout Eagle Award. They encourage the scouts to be a vital part of the fabric of our community.

Our Officers provide Prom Enforcement ensuring all limo drivers have and enforce a no alcohol or drug policy in their vehicles.

Our Fifth Precinct POP Unit also leads a NCPD Explorers Group. Exploring is an education and experience based program designed to help young people develop into mature, caring and responsible adults. With the guidance of the POP Advisors, area youth are mentored in life skills and are given the opportunity to participate in numerous law enforcement experiences and training sessions. The explorers are routinely involved in competitions that take place at venues throughout the country and that test their skills against other Law Enforcement Explorers. Local competitions are held with such groups as the New York City’s Explorers and US Customs.

Exploring helps foster positive relationships among the Police Department, its officers and local youth. It builds an avenue for public/ private partnerships that provides a means to support our mission to protect and serve. As individuals, the youth involved give back to their community by completing hundreds of hours of community service each year. They become role models for their peers and friends and serve as catalysts for positive police relations in our communities.

In this ever-competitive world in which our children find it increasingly difficult to gain acceptance to the college or university of their choice, having the experience of Exploring on their resumes may very well be the unique qualification to help them gain entrance into their college of choice.

Our Officers work closely with the Social Service Department, visiting the homeless and making sure they are cared for by providing a place to go, food or money sometimes out of their own pocket. 

Our Officers run Project 21 which visits local establishments who sell alcohol and tobacco and make sure they are not selling to any one under 21. Our officers have established relationships with Consumer Affairs Department, Town of Hempstead Building Dept., Valley Stream Code Enforcement, Probation and Parole Dept., to help clean up establishments that are selling cigerettes or alcohol to minors or known drug houses.

Our officers work with NCPD Crossing Guards to oversee the creation of future crossings and provide back up for Guards who need their support.

They are a fine group of officers whose passion, courage and dedication has served our community in so many ways for many years.  I truly wish them all well. Their service to Nassau County Fifth Precinct is priceless.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Town of Hempstead Independence Celebration

The legendary rock 'n' roll group Blood, Sweat and Tears will headline the Town of Hempstead's Independence Celebration on Saturday, June 25, 7:30 p.m., at beautiful Point Lookout Beach. "A breathtaking fireworks display and a patriotic salute to heroic veterans will also highlight our star-studded salute to America," commented Supervisor Kate Murray.


Formed in the late 1960s, with an historic appearance at Woodstock among their credits, Blood, Sweat and Tears has left an indelible mark on the American music scene. Featuring an harmonious blend of pop-rock and jazz, Blood, Sweat and Tears is one of the greatest horn bands in the history of modern music. Among the group's chart topping hits are, "Spinning Wheel," "And When I Die," "Hi-De-Ho" and "You've Made Me So Very Happy."

"Hempstead Town will ignite this year's Independence Celebration with a spectacular beach concert and fireworks show," added Supervisor Murray. "This will be a great night of FREE family entertainment and I invite everyone to arrive early, set up their lawn chairs or blankets near the stage and enjoy a picnic dinner before the show."

The town celebration will begin with a tribute to several military veterans who have distinguished themselves in service to their country and their community. Following the veteran's tribute and concert, Bay Fireworks will brighten the night sky with a world-class fireworks display.

Spectators will enjoy viewing the classic and vintage automobiles on display from several area car clubs. In addition to the classic cars, there will be an impressive array of military vehicles and armored equipment from the 2nd Marines 25th Battalion of Garden City. There will be a food court on site as well with a tasty menu for spectators to enjoy.

KJOY 98.3 FM returns as the evening's media sponsor, and the town's Independence Celebration is further supported by Swingbelly's Restaurant in Long Beach, Entenmann's Family Bakery, Dairy Barn, Quick Snack Vending and Naturally Boulder Beverage.

Town Park Point Lookout is located at 1300 Lido Boulevard in Point Lookout. The park entrance is directly across the Loop Parkway exit on Lido Boulevard. The phone number at Town Park is 431-3900.

The rain date for the concert and fireworks is Sunday, June 26. For information on the beach show and the entire schedule of summer concerts, call the Town of Hempstead Department of Parks and Recreation at 292-9000, ext. 382, or visit the town's web site at www.toh.li.

Smoke Alarms and Detectors

Smoke Alarms and Detectors


Smoke detectors are devices that automatically sound a warning when they sense smoke or other products of combustion. They are usually mounted on a wall or the ceiling. When people are warned early enough about a fire, they can escape before it spreads. You can purchase one starting at $6.

Every year house fires kill thousands. Fire kills an estimated 4,000 Americans every year. Another 30,000 people are seriously injured by fire each year. Property damage from fire costs us at least $11.2 billion yearly. Most fire victims feel that fire would "never happen to them."

Although we like to feel safe at home, about two-thirds of our nation's fire deaths happen in the victim's own home. The home is where we are at the greatest risk and where we must take the most precautions. Most deaths occur from inhaling smoke or poisonous gases, not from the flames.

Most fatal fires occur in residential buildings between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. when occupants are most likely asleep. Over 90 percent of fire deaths in buildings occur in residential dwellings.

A Johns Hopkins University study, funded by the United States Fire Administration, found that 75 percent of residential fire deaths and 84 percent of residential fire injuries could have been prevented by smoke detectors.

There are two basic types of smoke detectors:
Ionization detectors - Ionization detectors contain radioactive material that ionizes the air, making an electrical path. When smoke enters, the smoke molecules attach themselves to the ions. The change in electric current flow triggers the alarm. The radioactive material is called americium. It's a radioactive metallic element produced by bombardment of plutonium with high energy neutrons. The amount is very small and not harmful.
Photo-electric detectors - This type of detector contains a light source (usually a bulb) and a photocell, which is activated by light. Light from the bulb reflects off the smoke particles and is directed towards the photocell. The photocell then is activated to trigger the alarm.

When Choosing a smoke detector:

When choosing a smoke detector, there are several things to consider. Think about which areas of the house you want to protect, where fire would be most dangerous, how many you will need, etc.

The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that every home have a smoke detector outside each sleeping area (inside as well if members of the household sleep with the door closed) and on every level of the home, including the basement. The National Fire Alarm code requires a smoke detector inside each sleeping area for new construction. On floors without bedrooms, detectors should be installed in or near living areas, such as dens, living rooms or family rooms. Smoke detectors are not recommended for kitchens.

Installation

The placement of smoke detectors is very important. Sleeping areas need the most protection. One detector in a short hallway outside the bedroom area is usually adequate. Hallways longer than 30 feet should have one at each end. For maximum protection, install a detector in each bedroom.

Be sure to keep the detector away from fireplaces and wood stoves to avoid false alarms. Place smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell and at the end of each long hallway. Smoke rises easily through stairwells. If you should put a smoke detector in your kitchen, be sure to keep it away from cooking fumes or smoking areas.

It’s important to properly mount a smoke detector. You can mount many detectors by yourself, however those connected to your household wiring should have their own separate circuit and be installed by a professional electrician. If you mount your detector on the ceiling, be sure to keep it at least 18 inches away from dead air space near walls and corners. If you mount it on the wall, place it six to 12 inches below the ceiling and away from corners. Keep them high because smoke rises.

Never place them any closer than three feet from an air register that might re-circulate smoke. Don't place them near doorways or windows where drafts could impair the detector operation. Don't place them on an un-insulated exterior wall or ceiling. Temperature extremes can affect the batteries.

Maintenance

It’s simple to keep smoke detectors in good condition. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to replace the batteries every year or as needed. Most models will make a chirping, popping or beeping sound when the battery is losing its charge. When this sound is heard, install a fresh battery, preferably an alkaline type.

Remember, every three years to change the bulbs. Keep extras handy. Check the smoke detector every month by releasing smoke or pushing the “test” button. Clean the detector face and grillwork often to remove dust and grease. Never paint a smoke detector as it will hamper its function. Check your detector if you've been away from home.

Smoke Detectors make great housewarming (or any time) gifts. It's an interesting present that can save lives and it shows that you care.

Friday, June 3, 2011

Water Safety

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas C. Krumpter would like to remind county residents that water safety is something that all parents should be aware of. Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury related death among children ages 1 - 14. It can happen very quickly and in less than 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of water, so filled bathtubs, swimming pools, wading pools, hot tubs, and even buckets of water and sinks can be dangerous.

To reduce your child's risk of drowning:

Home

Never leave a small child unattended in the bath. If you must answer the telephone or door, don't rely on an older sibling to watch the child, bring the younger child with you.

Never leave a small child unattended near a bucket filled with any amount of water or other liquid.

Never use a bathtub seat with suction cups. The seat can overturn and flip a baby headfirst into the water.

Install a toilet-lid locking device or keep bathroom doors closed at all times. (Or you may want to install a doorknob cover.)

Pool

Never leave your children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment. An adult who knows CPR should actively supervise children at all times.

Practice ‘touch supervision’ with children younger than 5 years. This means that the adult is within an arm's length of the child at all times.

If you are planning a pool party, consider hiring a certified lifeguard to supervise those who will be in the pool.

Put up a fence to separate your house from the pool. Most young children who drown in pools wander out of the house and fall into the pool. Install a fence at least 4 feet high around the pool. This fence will completely separate the pool from the house and play area of the yard. Use gates that self-close and self-latch, with latches higher than your children's reach.

Keep rescue equipment (such as a shepherd's hook or life preserver) and a telephone by the pool.

Do not use air-filled "swimming aids" as a substitute for approved life vests.

Remove all toys from the pool after use so children aren't tempted to reach for them.

After the children are done swimming, secure the pool so they can't get back into it.

A power safety cover that meets the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) may add to the protection of your children but should not be used in place of the fence between your house and the pool. Even fencing around your pool and using a power safety cover will not prevent all drowning.

Drain Entrapment occurs when part of a child’s body becomes attached to a drain because of the powerful suction of a pool or hot tub filtration system. The powerful suction can trap a child underwater or cause internal injuries. It can also occur when a child’s hair, swimsuit or jewelry becomes entangled in the drain. In 2007, the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act made it illegal to manufacture, distribute or sell drain covers that do not adhere to the standards for anti-entrapment safety set by the Consumer Product and Safety Commission.

Warn your children about the dangers of drain entrapment, and teach them never to play near a pool drain, with or without a cover.

Pin up long hair when in the water and remove loose parts of swimsuits and loose jewelry that can get ensnared.

Equip pools and hot tubs with an anti-entrapment drain cover and an approved safety vacuum release system and regularly check that drain covers are secure and have no cracks. Flat drain covers can be replaced with dome-shaped ones.

Be aware of public wading pools with missing or broken drain covers. Small children have direct access to the bottom drain in wading pools and sitting on open drains can cause serious internal organ damage.

Remember, teaching your child how to swim DOES NOT mean your child is safe in water. Most young children who drown in swimming pools were last seen in the home, had only been missing from sight for a matter of minutes, and were in the care of one or both parents at the time. There is no substitute for active adult supervision to prevent drowning.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Silver Alert

The Silver Alert Program has been established in order to disseminate immediate information to local media, hospitals and other organizations when a senior citizen or other individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other cognitive disorders goes missing.


JEAN R WHITE
VALLEY STREAM , NY 11580
Age 70
Race AFRICAN AMERICAN
Sex F
Height 5'06''
Weight 135 LBS
Language ENGLISH

HAS DEMENTIA
MISSING HAS DEMENTIA AND IS AN AVID WALKER.
LAST SEEN AT 54 GATES AVE, VALLEY STREAM ON 5/30/2011 AT 01:00 WEARING GREEN SHIRT, PINK PAJAMA BOTTOMS, BLK SHOES TRAVELING UNKNOWN BY FOOT