For millions of American households, this time of year is marked by families celebrating around the Christmas tree. But according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), holiday season fires account for more than $900 million in property damage each year. It only takes a few seconds for a holiday tree fire to engulf an entire room. By making sure your tree is kept well-watered, you can prevent serious injuries or even death.

The USFA has a few tips to keep in mind for making sure a holiday tree in your home is as safe as possible Continue reading Make Sure Your Christmas Tree Doesn’t Go Up In Flames »

For John Walsh and the AMW Safety Center, our most important work is trying to protect children. When Roberta R. from Arizona asked John about a video she was forwarded featuring an child she thought was in danger, he knew immediately where to send her: NCMEC’s Cybertipline.

The Cybertipline, run by the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children, is a 24 hour hotline accessible by phone or online, where you can always report any and all crimes against children whether they happen online or not. John Walsh and NCMEC have a zero tolerance goal for crimes against children, but they want you to get involved too and help make a difference for exploited kids.

You never know when you’ll be called to be a hero and save someone’s life. You could be out hiking on a trail or playing basketball when your friend collapses. You might be the only witness of a terrifying car crash or wake up to a fire in your neighbor’s home. There are countless emergency situations where you could be faced with a split second decision that will be the difference between life and death for someone you know or a complete stranger. Without a first responder nearby, what will you do?

Your local Red Cross chapter offers many types of emergency training courses that teach the public how to respond in an emergency situation. Even learning simple skills like administering first aid or CPR can be important in being that quick responding Good Samaritan who springs into action, saving someone’s life in those critical moments before help arrives. Continue reading Good Samaritans: Responding To An Emergency »

Everyone needs to feel safe, especially in their own home. John Walsh answers an important question from a viewer about home security that all of you should keep in mind.

If you are home alone, and hear strange noises, you can call your local non-emergency police number. You will be connected with a dispatcher who can help you determine whether or not you have an emergency situation and send someone out to check your home.

And for more information about securing your home, you can check out some of John Walsh’s tips right here at the AMW Safety Center.