The FBI ranks rape as one of the most serious of violent crimes, second only to murder. If you or someone you know has experienced a sexual assault, the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) is there to help guide and support you. You aren’t required to report the crime, but if you become a rape survivor and do make the decision to talk to cops, there are a few things you can expect about the process Continue reading Sexual Assault: Reporting The Crime »

Since 2007, more than 45 million toys have been recalled for dangers they pose to our children. These hazards range from choking, to tiny magnets, and poisoning from lead paint.

Even after a recall, some of these dangerous toys might still be found on shelves in toy stores, so it’s important for parents to keep up to date with the latest product safety news to be sure that these toys are kept far away from their children.

The U.S. Public Interest Research Groups (U.S. PIRG) has complied a shopping guide just in time for the holidays. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• Avoid Choking hazards: never buy toys with small parts for children under 3 years old.
• Watch out for toys with powerful magnets that could fall out and be swallowed. If a child swallows even one magnet, seek immediate medical attention.
• Watch out for strangulation hazards. Remove knobs or beads from cords longer than 1 foot which could tangle into a loop.
• Avoid toys made of PVC plastic which could have lead or toxic chemicals.

You can always visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission or Recalls.gov for the most recent list of any products, including toys, food, medicine, that could be dangerous to you or your family. And check out the U.S. PIRG shopping guide for more tips on how you can be prepared against some of these dangerous hazards.

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 »

December 1, 2008 marks the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day. The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 56,000 Americans become infected with HIV every year partially because 25 percent of those living with HIV are not even aware that they are infected with the deadly disease. Testing is critical to keeping the spread of HIV down. The more aware you are, the more you can protect not only your own health, but also the transmission of HIV to others. If you’re not sure if you should be tested for HIV, take a look at these questions. If your answer is yes to any of them, you need to take an HIV test.

• Have you injected drugs or steroids or shared equipment (such as needles, syringes, works) with others?
• Have you had unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with men who have sex with men, multiple partners, or anonymous partners?
• Have you exchanged sex for drugs or money?
• Have you been diagnosed with or treated for hepatitis, tuberculosis (TB), or a sexually transmitted disease (STD), like syphilis?
• Have you had unprotected sex with someone who could answer yes to any of the above questions?

The average length of time for HIV to become detectable in your body is 25 days after exposure. In rare cases it could take up to 6 months before the disease can be detected. It’s a good idea if you are concerned and take an HIV test that comes up negative within 3 months of exposure to repeat the test in another 3 months.

For more information about testing and to find an HIV testing site in your area, check out the CDC’s National HIV and STD Testing Resources website.

You can also text your zip code to KnowIt (566948) to find HIV testing centers near you.

And for more information about AIDS and how to prevent it check out AIDS.gov.