Not enough property owners pay fair share

Not enough property owners pay fair share
EDITOR:
Once again it is property tax time, and like most, I will pay it, although grudgingly. The reason for this is that it has come to my attention that a lot of people in our area are above the law. They owe thousands in back property taxes yet seem to be untouchable when it comes time to collect.
To back this up, I found an interesting website (www.mahoningcountyauditor.org). Ever wonder who owns that run down rental next to you? Or that vacant lot?
Check out this site. I was shocked to find out that the owner of the vacant property behind me owes over $70,000 in property taxes, (This doesn't include the numerous other vacant lots he owns).
I began to wonder why should I pay? Apparently in this town, the more you owe the less you pay. So along with my property taxes, I'm sending a list of names and the amounts they owe.
I suggest every taxpayer do the same. Maybe it will make a difference, maybe not. If enough people are aware of what's going on, then maybe something can be done.
It's only fair that everyone pay their share.
RICHARD HEYDLE Jr.
Youngstown
Simple steps can help prevent heat illnesses
EDITOR:
Every year around this time we (OSHA On-Site Consultation Services) receive a number of calls questioning OSHA's position on working in hot, humid conditions.
In fact, OSHA has no regulations governing either hot or cold working conditions. It is, and always has been, recommended that employers develop both a heat and cold stress program which would address these concerns, but it is not mandatory.
The following precautions and recommendations should be used as a guide when addressing the risk of working in hot/humid conditions.
When the body is unable to cool itself through sweating, high temperature, high humidity and physical work add up to heat illness, of which the most dangerous are heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Symptoms to watch for are: headaches, dizziness, light headedness, weakness, mood changes, nausea, vomiting and pale and clammy skin. When any one of these symptoms is noted the following actions should be taken:
UMove victims to a cool/shaded area. Do not leave victims alone. Lie victims down, on their back or side if they feel sick to their stomach.
ULoosen/remove excessive clothing.
UHave the victim drink cool water (a small cup every 15 minutes).
UFan the victim, use a water mist or wet cloth.
UIf illness persists, immediately call 911.
These symptoms are the beginning stages of heat exhaustion, if not treated they can lead to heat stroke.
Take the following precautions:
ULearn the signs/symptoms.
URe-schedule activity to cooler times.
UUse the buddy system.
UDrink plenty of water (not caffeine or alcohol).
UWear proper clothing.
UTake frequent breaks.
UAvoid large meals.
Be careful, watch for the symptoms, and get treatment as soon as possible.
JOHN P. LESEGANICH
Canfield
X OSHA On-Site Consultation is a free service offered through the State of Ohio, Department of Commerce, for employers within the State of Ohio. For more information call 1-800-282-1425.