A message from the District Manager... Tim Costello

June 21 is officially the first day of summer but in Dallas it feels as if summer started at least a month ago.  We all know that temperatures will soar this summer, and that means that we need to be prepared for the Texas heat. 

Although I didn’t work in Texas when I was carrying mail, the ten summers I worked in Jackson, MS, as a City Carrier were hot and humid.  I never left home without filling a large thermos with ice and plenty of water.

The Dallas District has approximately 7,000 employees that work as Letter Carriers, Rural Carriers and Highway Contract Route Drivers.  If you are one of these employees, you know more than most how important it is to take the following safety precautions:

• Stay hydrated.

○ Hydration is the most important tool in preventing heat-related illness

○ Employees should be well hydrated before arriving at work

• Eat during lunch and other rest breaks.

○ Food helps replace lost electrolytes

•      Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing made of materials such as cotton.

•      Wear a wide-brimmed hat, when possible.

•      Take breaks in the shade or a cool area, when possible.

•      Be aware that protective clothing or personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress.

•      Monitor your physical condition and that of co-workers for heat related symptoms.

• Talk with your doctor about medications you are taking and how they may affect your heat tolerance.

• Tell your supervisor if you have symptoms of heat-related illness or call 911. 

June is also the month where Postal employees have experienced the most dog bites.  I was attacked by many dogs while walking my routes in Mississippi.  My satchel and dog spray never failed me! To protect yourself on your mail route, remember these simple rules:  

• If you are approached by a dog, resist the impulse to scream and run away. Running will trigger a chase response.

• Remain motionless, with your hands at your sides and avoid eye contact with the dog.  Always be on the alert for a sneak attack!

• Once the dog has calmed down, you can back away. Do not turn your back on a dog because a fearful dog will bite you when you are not looking. Stand your ground.  Place your satchel between you and the dog.  Use your dog spray.

• Being aware of your surroundings and protecting yourself is your best defense against dog attacks.

 

Summer means fun, but for Postal employees, it also means it’s time to step up our safety awareness efforts.  Each one of you makes up the Dallas District, and it’s important to me that you stay safe this summer.