Safety

Did you hear it? Cities and communities throughout the state tested their severe weather warning sirens earlier today. Their prep work is a good reminder for us to make our own during Severe Weather Awareness Week. Many Ohio counties have outdoor warning sirens that sound when severe weather is imminent. During storm watches or warnings, listen to your National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio or your local news for current weather conditions and information. Cellphones may also alert you to storm warnings. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are free notifications delivered to mobile devices as part of a public safety system. WEAs can notify listeners of imminent weather, local emergencies requiring evacuation or immediate action, and AMBER Alerts. ...

Before the internet, matchmaking likely involved a friend setting you up with a cousin, or a coworker introducing you to someone who’s “perfect for you.”  That still happens, but it's also now respectable to fish in a much larger pool by using dating websites. For those of us 50+, it’s nearly a requirement. ...

Whether you live in the suburbs or a city center, boomers and seniors are likely to possess "The experience and knowledge necessary to deal with the potential difficulties or dangers of life in an urban environment.” In other words, street smarts. If street smarts are essential for living safely in our real world, is there an equivalent for the digital world since we spend more time there these days? Absolutely. ...

Ohman Family Living at Holly has opened a brand new, state-of-the-art memory care in Newbury, Ohio. The purpose-built design provides residents a safe and engaging living environment. Take a virtual tour of this beautiful, calming facility. ...

Proceed, but with caution! It’s important to remember the COVID-19 vaccine is most protective about two weeks after the second dose, and even then it’s not 100% effective. So, when you do plan your next visit with grandkids, masks and social distancing are still important. ...

Many people in minority communities are at high risk for COVID-19 complications, but some may be hesitant to receive the vaccine. A doctor tells us why and encourages everyone to embrace vaccination. ...

Our January/February issue of the magazine features stories about winter hiking. Here's another story about how to recognize frostbite and frostnip when you're enjoying NEO's trails, out in the frosty air. ...

Have you scored a coronavirus vaccine yet? Lucky you. It can be a frustrating process, more a matter of luck and persistence than anything else. Regardless of your status, scientists say herd immunity with vaccinations is on the horizon. ...