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October 2003 Newsletter:
Safety with Hardware

Personal computer safety should be considered an everyday practice for each computer and internet user. One area of safety many users do not consider is the everyday safety of the computer itself and the hardware connected. Consider your computer as another household appliance like your refrigerator, washer, or toaster. When used or connected improperly, an electrical "situation" can occur. Some causes are: overheating from lack of air circulation because of dust; or, frayed wires from inappropriate storage or critters such as hamsters or dogs. Moth balls or cedar chips are not liked by most insects, rodents, and animals.

Teach young children to stay away from all the cables and wires attached to the electrical receptacles and the computers in the house. Teach them to never open the computer "box" or put their fingers or other objects inside openings (drives). Remember to have the computer and all the hardware disconnected from the power source when adding new hardware - even your mouse. Make a periodic visual check of the cables and electrical cords for any "knicks", cuts, or tears that can cause an electrical short. Be sure the surge protector is capable of handling the voltage for the computer and hardware you want to protect. And, be sure the computer and monitor are plugged into their correct outlet according to the instructions by the manufacturer of the surge protector. Keep all vents free of clutter and dust so air can properly circulate.

Computers and their hardware are tools that we use to improve our personal lives whether we use them as a business or play tool. Take good care of them. Teach your children to respect computers as you teach them to respect books, toasters, and electrical outlets.

 Stay safe and use all the tools available to their full potential remembering the personal safety of you and your family. Keeping your family safe at home, online and in the everyday world will help your community, state, and country stay safer.

Refer to the Safety Guide for a quick review about internet safety.