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Peace and harmony dialogue at EMK Centre sheds spotlight on developing youth talent
Speakers at a recent dialogue opined that the nation’s youth needs to develop skills to become successful entrepreneurs and establish youth leadership in society.
They also demanded the concerned authorities ensure youth representation in all areas of the society, including the national parliament.
These were the key talking points at the first ever 'Peace and Harmony Dialogue' which was recently held at EMK Centre in the capital’s Gulshan, organized by the Films for Peace Foundation under the Youth Engagement in Democracy project, in collaboration with the Manusher Jonno Foundation.
Parvez Siddiqui, Managing Director of Films for Peace Foundation delivered the welcome speech at the event and spoke about the Youth Engagement in Democracy project.
Empowering Change: Policy Dialogue on disability inclusion in SMART Bangladesh held in city
In two sessions, the challenges faced by young people in becoming entrepreneurs came up in the dialogue. Besides, the guests gave several suggestions and recommendations to face those challenges.
Keeping children safe on social media: What parents should know to protect their kids
At what age should kids be on social media? Should they be on it at all? If they aren't, will they be social pariahs? Should parents monitor their conversations? Do parental controls work?
Navigating social media as a parent — not to mention a child — is not easy. Using social media platforms is still the default for most American teenagers, with the Pew Research Center reporting that 58% of teens are daily users of TikTok, including 17% who describe their TikTok use as almost constant. About half of teens use Snapchat and Instagram daily, with near-constant use at 14% and 8% for each, respectively.
But parents — and even some teens themselves — are growing increasingly concerned about the effects of social media use on young people. Lawmakers have taken notice and have held multiple congressional hearings on child online safety. But even with apparent bipartisan unity, making laws and regulating companies takes time. So far, no regulation has passed.
What are parents — and teens — supposed to do in the meantime? Here are some tips on staying safe, communicating and setting limits on social media — for kids as well as their parents.
IS 13 THE MAGIC AGE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA?
There’s already, technically, a rule that prohibits kids under 13 from using platforms that advertise to them without parental consent: The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act that went into effect in 2000, before today’s teenagers were even born.
The goal was to protect kids’ online privacy by requiring websites and online services to disclose clear privacy policies and get parents’ consent before gathering personal information on their kids, among other things. To comply, social media companies have generally banned kids under 13 from signing up for their services.
But times have changed, and online privacy is no longer the only concern when it comes to kids being online. There’s bullying, harassment, the risk of developing eating disorders, suicidal thoughts or worse.
For years, there has been a push among parents, educators and tech experts to wait to give children phones — and access to social media — until they are older, such as the “Wait Until 8th” pledge that has parents sign a pledge not to give their kids a smartphone until the 8th grade, or about age 13 or 14. Some wait even later, like 16 or 17.
But neither social media companies nor the government have done anything concrete to increase the age limit.
IF THE LAW WON’T BAN KIDS, SHOULD PARENTS?
“There is not necessarily a magical age,” said Christine Elgersma, a social media expert at the nonprofit Common Sense Media. But, she added, “13 is probably not the best age for kids to get on social media.”
The laws currently being proposed include blanket bans on the under-13 set when it comes to social media. The problem? There’s no easy way to verify a person’s age when they sign up for apps and online services. And the apps popular with teens today were created for adults first. Companies have added some safeguards over the years, Elgersma noted, but these are piecemeal changes, not fundamental rethinks of the services.
“Developers need to start building apps with kids in mind,” she said.
Some tech executives, celebrities such as Jennifer Garner and parents from all walks of life have resorted to banning their kids from social media altogether. While the decision is a personal one that depends on each child and parent, some experts say this could lead to isolating kids, who could be left out of activities and discussions with friends that take place on social media or chat services.
Another hurdle — kids who have never been on social media may find themselves ill-equipped to navigate the platforms when they are suddenly allowed free rein the day they turn 18.
TALK, TALK, TALK
A more realistic and effective approach to social media, experts say, is a slow, deliberate onboarding that gives children the tools and information they need to navigate a world in which places like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat are almost impossible to escape.
“You cannot just expect that the kids will jump into the world of social media, learn how to swim on their own,” said Natalie Bazarova, a professor of communications and director of the Cornell Social Media Lab. “They need to have instruction.”
Start early, earlier than you think. Elgersma suggests that parents go through their own social media feeds with their children before they are old enough to be online and have open discussions on what they see. How would your child handle a situation where a friend of a friend asks them to send a photo? Or if they see an article that makes them so angry they just want to share it right away?
For older kids, Elgersma says to approach them with curiosity and interest, "asking about what their friends are doing or just not asking direct questions like, ‘What are you doing on Instagram?’ but rather, ‘Hey, I heard this influencer is really popular.'” And even if your kid rolled their eyes it could be a window.”
Don’t say things like “Turn that thing off!” when your kid has been scrolling for a long time, says Jean Rogers, the director of the nonprofit Fairplay’s Screen Time Action Network.
“That’s not respectful,” Rogers said. “It doesn’t respect that they have a whole life and a whole world in that device.”
Instead, Rogers suggests asking them questions about what they do on their phone, and see what your child is willing to share.
Kids are also likely to respond to parents and educators “pulling back the curtains” on social media and the sometimes insidious tools companies use to keep people online and engaged, Elgersma said. Watch a documentary like “The Social Dilemma” that explores algorithms, dark patterns and dopamine feedback cycles of social media. Or read up with them how Facebook and TikTok make money.
“Kids love to be in the know about these things, and it will give them a sense of power,” she said.
SETTING LIMITS
Rogers says most parents have success with taking their kids’ phones overnight to limit their scrolling. Occasionally kids might try to sneak the phone back, but it’s a strategy that tends to work because kids need a break from the screen.
“They need to an excuse with their peers to not be on their phone at night,” Rogers said. “They can blame their parents.”
Parents may need their own limits on phone use. Rogers said it’s helpful to explain what you are doing when you do have a phone in hand around your child so they understand you are not aimlessly scrolling through sites like Instagram. Tell your child that you’re checking work email, looking up a recipe for dinner or paying a bill so they understand you’re not on there just for fun. Then tell them when you plan to put the phone down.
WHAT ABOUT PARENTAL CONTROLS?
Social media platforms that cater to children have added an ever-growing array of parental controls as they face increasing scrutiny over child safety. For instance, Meta unveiled parental supervision tools last year that lets parents set time limits, see who their kid follows or is followed by, and allows them to track how much time the minor spends on Instagram. It does not let parents see message content.
But as with similar tools on other platforms such as TikTok, the feature is optional, and both kids and parents have to agree to use it. In order to nudge kids toward agreeing to set up the controls, Instagram sends a notice to teens after they block someone, encouraging them to let their parents “supervise” their account. The idea is to grab kids’ attention when they might be more open to parental guidance.
By making the feature optional, Meta says it is trying to “balance teen safety and autonomy” as well as prompt conversations between parents and their children.
Such features can be useful for families in which parents are already involved in their child’s online life and activities. Experts say that’s not the reality for many people.
U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said last year it’s unfair to expect parents to manage what their children do with rapidly evolving technology that “fundamentally changes how their kids think about themselves, how they build friendships, how they experience the world — and technology, by the way, that prior generations never had to manage."
Putting all of that on the shoulders of parents, he said, "is just simply not fair.”
Staying Safe When Studying Abroad: Essential Considerations
Studying abroad is a dream for many, offering quality education, cultural exploration, and a global perspective. However, this exciting journey comes with challenges and safety concerns that students must navigate. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure a safe and enriching experience abroad.
Before You Leave Home: Key Preparations
Research Your Destination
Thorough research about the destination country is crucial. Each country has unique rules, regulations, customs, and social norms. What may seem like a new experience to you could be viewed as cultural appropriation by locals. Utilize resources like Google, YouTube, and social media for insights on where to live, what to eat, what to avoid, and potential scams. This preparation will give you a solid head start.
Read more: Distance Learning: Top Universities Offering Online Courses for International Students
Health Checkup and Vaccinations
If you have any medical conditions, a pre-departure health checkup is advisable. Keep a copy of your medical report and your medications for personal and emergency reference. Additionally, many countries have specific vaccination requirements. For instance, Japan requires the measles and rubella vaccine for all visitors. Check if your destination has similar prerequisites and consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for emergencies.
Unforgettable Mother's Day Surprises: Ways to Make the Day Special
Mothers are often described as the pillars of our families, providing unwavering love and support throughout our lives. As Mother's Day 2024 approaches on May 12, it presents a wonderful opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice. While traditional gifts like flowers and chocolates are always welcome, why not make this year's celebration extraordinary with thoughtful gestures and creative experiences? Here are some innovative ideas to make Mother’s Day truly memorable.
Embrace the Power of Personalization
The true essence of a meaningful gift lies in its personal touch. Whether it’s a custom-made piece of jewelry, a service that eases her daily routine, or spending quality time together, these gifts are profoundly impactful. They serve as reminders of appreciation, showing that the best presents are those that cannot be valued in simple monetary terms.
Ways to Surprise Your Mother on This Mother’s Day
Breakfast in Bed
You can show your love this Mother's Day by preparing her favourite paratha, beef, or vegetables, and serving it to her in bed. You can pair it with a cup of her preferred drinks, along with a fresh flower, for a simple yet heartfelt gesture that she will truly appreciate.
Spa Day at Home
Try to pamper your mother with a relaxing spa day at home. You can also create a relaxing atmosphere by lighting scented candles and playing calming music.
Read more: 10 Father's Day Gift Ideas for Retired Dads
Cook Her Favourite Meal
It would be sweet to treat your mother to a delightful home-cooked meal this Mother's Day. Prepare her favourite dish or explore a new recipe together for a fun culinary adventure. You can elevate the experience by setting the table with beautiful flowers and candles, adding a special touch to the occasion that she will cherish.
Take Her Out for Dinner
Celebrate Mother's Day with a memorable dinner at her favourite restaurant. You should indulge in delectable cuisine while relishing quality time together, and creating cherished memories. Let her savour the flavours she loves in a charming ambience, making this dining experience a delightful expression of appreciation for all she does.
Give Her a Chore Free Day
This Mother's Day, it would be nice to gift your mother a chore-free day, allowing her to unwind and relax without the burden of household tasks. Let her enjoy a well-deserved break, pampering her with love and attention. It is a simple yet meaningful way to show appreciation for all the love she gives us every day.
read more: 10 Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Wife
Give Your Mother Fresh Flowers
If you are pondering what to get your mother this Mother's Day, surprising her with her beloved blooms can be a perfect beginning. Consider her favourite flowers and colours for a personalised touch. You may also opt for classic choices like roses, sunflowers, or tuberoses if unsure. It is a thoughtful gesture she will adore.
World Day for Safety and Health at Work: Here’s How Dhaka Flow Wants to Promote a Safer Workplace
The fast-paced evolution of modern work culture often overshadows the crucial aspect of employee well-being, which includes both physical and mental health. This issue has gained significant attention, especially following the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Annually, on April 28, the International Labour Organization (ILO) commemorates the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. Introduced in 2003, this day serves to elevate the importance of creating safe and dignified work environments worldwide. It aims to mobilize efforts to prevent work-related accidents, hazards, and diseases, which are vital not only for the safety but also for the well-being of workers globally.
“The International Labour Organization (ILO), began to observe World Day in 2003 to raise the political profile of occupational health and safety, and to fulfil the integral ‘advocacy’ component of their Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health,” explained Saima Wazed, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia.
She emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Given that nearly 60% of the global population is engaged in work, the fundamental right of all workers to a safe and healthy environment is one of great importance. Consider how much of our lives are spent in our workplaces, and it becomes apparent how workplace health and safety take on the dimensions of a public health concern.”
“Occupational health encompasses the physical, mental, and social well-being of workers while preventing workplace-related hazards. Hazards can lead to occupational diseases that erode workers’ ability to participate in the workforce and result in increased rates of long-term illness. World Health Organization (WHO) and ILO estimated that work-related diseases and injuries resulted in 1.88 million deaths in 2016,” Wazed added.
In Bangladesh, Dhaka Flow has risen as a prominent provider of wellness solutions to corporates, schools, universities, and communities. Dedicated to creating healthier, safer, and more inclusive environments, Dhaka Flow equips organizations and individuals with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate today's dynamic workplace challenges effectively.
Read: Cosmos Group hosts Dhaka Flow at "Health and Safety at Work" Workshop
In recognition of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, Shazia Omar, a noted yogini, activist, writer, and the CEO and Founder of Dhaka Flow, along with Tahsin N. Choudhury, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, shared insights into their action plans and perspectives.
“In Bangladesh, we always take our health more seriously and take medicines after being sick, but what about preventing it? We at Dhaka Flow aim to promote holistic healing and healthy lifestyle options among our communities, across Dhaka and Bangladesh, as we believe that if we take care of ourselves, our health, mental well-being, and state of mind through yoga, meditation, healthy eating habits etc, we can be healthier and happier without relying on medicines,” said Shazia Omar.
Dhaka Flow orchestrated a series of wellness workshops focusing on health and safety at workplaces. “April 28 is the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, for which we developed a bunch of wellness workshops to address the topics of health and safety at work. We have been running these workshops at corporate houses to help people learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle at work and afterwards, so they can be more productive and also happier at work,” Omar explained.
Read: Celebrating wellness and women’s empowerment: Dhaka Flow’s weekend festival draws over 10,000 participants
The workshops, part of a week-long event starting on April 28, include sessions on stress management, which highlight the benefits of breathwork and meditation, and fitness, discussing the importance of sleep, nutrition, and yoga. Another critical aspect covered is safety at work, advocating for a supportive environment that addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Topics such as mental health awareness, emotional regulation, and sexual harassment prevention are thoroughly explored, providing participants with skills to foster a secure and respectful workplace culture.
“Recently, Dhaka Flow conducted a workshop at Cosmos Centre in collaboration with Lighthouse Therapy BD, marking the World Day for Safety and Health at Work,” said Tahsin N Choudhury, Dhaka Flow Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). “We covered all of the abovementioned topics such as how the employees work on stress management or how can we overcome any sort of adversity and challenge that we face in workplace, and what are some of the measures the corporate workplaces and offices should take which can prioritise the health and safety of the employees and make a program about it.”
“During this particular workshop at Cosmos Centre, we asked the employees about the types of stresses they face regularly, what are their challenges, what are some of the things they want to work on, and a detailed assessment in which we all scored ourselves against options such as our duration of sleep, our food intake habits such as how much vegetables we incorporate in our diet plans, how much we can walk, for how long we perform physical exercises etc.”
“Upon evaluating these, we discuss whether there is something that we can change from our end, and if any authority figure from our workplaces can provide us that support. Seeing how the Cosmos authority has taken this initiative to invest in their employees – especially for their health and safety, was wonderful,” Tahsin told UNB.
Read more: Gallery Cosmos offers ‘Art Therapy through Printmaking’ with Rokeya Sultana at Dhaka Flow’s wellness festival
Beyond these workshops, Dhaka Flow offers training on gender equality, first aid and CPR, fire safety, and earthquake preparedness, catering to the diverse needs of modern workplaces. “If you believe that your team or office can benefit then please get in touch with us, we would love to come and engage with you,” Shazia Omar offered, inviting organizations to leverage Dhaka Flow's resources and expertise to enhance their work environments.
'Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time, and Art Form:' Ahmad Bashir’s book launched at AFD
Writer Ahmad Bashir’s new book “Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time, and Art Form” was launched on Friday at Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), Dhanmondi in the capital.
A discussion followed the book launch, joined by film critic Anupam Hayat, researcher Kazal Rashid Shahin, film researcher Mir Shamsul Alam Baboo, film teacher Shakila Parveen, and editor Foysal Ahmed.
The book "Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time and Art Form’ (2023)" is Ahmad Bashir’s recent publication where he has attempted to analyze the influence of film in shaping the cultural development of Bangladesh. This intellectual inquiry includes the chronological development of the country's film genre, the social context that the media has captured in the last few decades, and their attempt to create a national integrity and value system.
A contemporary novelist and short story writer in Bangladesh, Ahmad Bashir published five novels and a dozen short-story collections, as well as literary criticism and children's books throughout his career. His fictions are distinguished by its attention to the concerns, passions, and suffering of middle-class and marginal people in the country.
His first book of short stories, “Anno Patabhumi (Another Background)," was published in 1981, and received the Humayun Kadir Literature Award of that year. In 1987, his first novel was published in the monthly magazine of the Bangla Academy.
In 1987, Bangla Academy published his translation book “Around the World in Eighty Days” - the world-famous novel of French novelist Jule Verne, which was re-published recently (2024) by another famous publisher.
Other famous books of the writer are ‘Tithidor (A Time for Union - 2016),’ ‘Mudrarakhhash (The Demon of Money - 2019),’ ‘Films of Bangladesh: Country, Time and Art Form’ (2023)’ and ‘Trishanku (Nowhere to Go - 2024).’
PTE Test: Everything You Need to Know
It's nothing new that English is the most widely recognized global language today. Owing to that, proficiency in English is a must if you’re planning to study or work abroad. While IELTS is more common as a standardized English test option, it's not the only choice out there. There are more comprehensive tests like the PTE which are easier to take and provide faster results. Here’s everything you need to know to about the PTE Test.
What is the PTE Test?
PTE or Pearson Test of English is a standardized English proficiency test designed for non-native English speakers. The test assesses the language skills of a person who wants to study or work in an English-speaking country.
The test evaluates four skills: speaking, writing, reading, and listening. PTE is recognized by various universities, colleges, governments, and organizations around the world as proof of English language proficiency. They are reputed for reliable and fast result delivery which is typically available within 5 business days.
Read more: Free Websites for Online IELTS Mock Tests
Types of PTE Test
Unlike IELTS, PTE offers a range of test options. Each of these tests is designed for specific usage targeting different demographics. As part of the PTE itself, there are PTE Academic, PTE Core, and UK Visa tests (SELT). The PTE Core and SELT are designated for work and immigration in Canada and the UK respectively.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is the most common type of Pearson test. It is designed for non-native speakers seeking higher education and professional opportunities where the medium of instruction is English. There is also PTE Academic Online which can be attempted from home rather than a test center.
The SELT is included as part of the PTE Academic. Several options under SELT include PTE Academic UKVI, PTE Home A1, A2, and B1.
PTE Core
PTE Core is used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as a standard of qualification for the English language. It is designated for work and migration in Canada. Note that if you’re applying for higher education in Canada, you will need the PTE Academic unless stated otherwise.
Read more: Duolingo English Test: Everything You Need to Know
In addition to the PTE Academic, SELT, and PTE Core, there are two more certificate exams held under the Pearson system. These are:
International Certificate
The International Certificate is commonly known as PTE General. It is designed to assess and validate general English language proficiency for day-to-day use. Note that PTE General cannot be used for academic or immigration purposes.
International Certificate Young Learners
The International Certificate Young Learners test is designed for students aged between 6 to 13. It assesses the English language ability of a student in a child-friendly manner. There are four levels to the Young Learners test, Firstwords, Springboard, Quickmarch, and Breakthrough.
Read more: TOEFL Preparation: Best Free Online Resources, Guidelines, and Mock Test Opportunities
Test Format and Structure of PTE Test
The PTE test being a standardized module assesses a user on speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Speaking and writing parts are combined as a single section with reading and listening being separate sections. However, the test format and the test structure differ depending on the type of the test.
PTE Academic
The PTE Academic Speaking and Writing section takes about 54 to 67 minutes to finish. The reading section takes about 29 to 30 minutes and the listening takes about 30 to 43 minutes. The question structure for each of the sections is as follows:
Speaking and Writing
- Personal Introduction- Read Aloud- Repeat Sentence- Describe Image- Re-tell Lecture- Answer Short Question- Summarize Written Text- Essay (20 minutes)- The total number of questions would vary between 28 to 36.
Read more: IELTS vs TOEFL: Which is better for study abroad?
Reading
- Fill in the Blanks (Reading & Writing)- Multiple Choice, Single Answer- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers- Re-order Paragraphs- Fill in the Blanks (Reading)- The total number of questions would vary between 13 to 18.
Listening
- Summarize Spoken Text- Multiple Choice, Single Answer- Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers- Fill in the Blanks- Highlight Correct Summary- Multiple Choice, Single Answer- Select Missing Word- Highlight Incorrect Words- Write from Dictation- The total number of questions would vary between 12 to 20.
Read more: IELTS Preparation: Best Online Free Resources, Mock Tests, and Guidelines for IELTS Academic and General
LPG Cylinder Safety Precautions: Tips to Follow at Home
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is used for cooking in many urban and rural households in Bangladesh. Gas cylinder safety is paramount in every household. Neglecting safety measures can lead to catastrophic consequences including death and burn injuries. Understanding the importance of proper gas cylinder handling and storage is crucial in preventing accidents. Let’s delve into essential safety measures to prevent LPG cylinder-related accidents.
How to Use LPG Gas Cylinder Safely at Home
Proper Storage of Gas Cylinders
When storing gas cylinders, it is crucial to keep them upright in a well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. This helps prevent the risk of overheating or ignition.
Additionally, one should ensure that the cylinders are securely positioned to avoid any accidental tipping, which could lead to leaks or damage. Proper storage practices are essential for maintaining the integrity and safety of gas cylinders in the home.
Read more: Why Fire Safety Audit is Essential for Commercial Buildings
Purchase from an Authorised Distributor
When purchasing LPG cylinders, it is crucial to buy from authorised distributors to ensure quality and safety.
Before placing an order, it is advisable to verify the agency's authorisation status online. This step helps consumers ensure that they are purchasing genuine and certified cylinders from trusted sources, enhancing safety standards in their homes.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are vital for ensuring the safety of gas cylinders at home. Certified technicians should conduct periodic inspections to identify any leaks or signs of damage.
Prompt detection of issues allows for timely repairs or replacement of faulty cylinders and reduces the risk of accidents. By prioritising regular maintenance, households can minimise the chances of gas leaks or cylinder malfunctions, thus safeguarding the well-being of occupants and property.
Read more: Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe
Safe Handling Practices
Safe handling practices are paramount when dealing with gas cylinders. It is essential to handle them with care, avoiding rough treatment or dropping that could lead to damage or leaks. When transporting cylinders, use appropriate equipment to ensure stability and minimise the risk of accidents.
Also, avoid dragging cylinders across the floor, as this could cause abrasions or compromise their integrity. By adhering to safe handling practices, individuals can mitigate potential hazards.
Ensuring Adequate Ventilation
Ensuring adequate ventilation is essential, particularly in confined areas where gas cylinders are stored or used. Proper airflow plays a vital role in dispersing any leaked gas, preventing its accumulation, and reducing the risk of ignition.
By maintaining sufficient ventilation, households can enhance safety levels and minimise the likelihood of hazardous situations arising from gas leaks. Prioritising ventilation measures are integral to creating a safer environment when dealing with gas cylinders at home.
Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention
Checking for Leaks
Before using a gas cylinder, it is essential to conduct a leak test to ensure safety. A simple method is to apply a solution of soapy water to the cylinder valve and connections. If bubbles form, it indicates a leak.
In such cases, the cylinder should not be used until the leak is rectified by a qualified technician. Regularly checking for leaks helps prevent potential hazards and ensures the safe use of gas cylinders in households.
Proper Installation of Gas Appliances
Proper installation of gas appliances is crucial for safety. It is recommended to hire certified technicians to install gas appliances, adhering to manufacturer guidelines. Improper installation may result in gas leaks or malfunctions, posing significant risks to occupants.
Certified technicians have the expertise to ensure correct installation, reducing the likelihood of hazards. By prioritising professional installation, households can enhance safety levels in their homes.
Read more: Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards
Emergency Procedures
In the event of a gas leak, swift action is essential for safety. Firstly, turn off the cylinder valve to stop the gas flow. Next, open windows and doors to ventilate the area, helping to disperse the gas. It is significant to evacuate the premises immediately and move to a safe location outdoors.
If the situation escalates or there is a risk of fire or explosion, contact emergency services without delay for professional assistance. Prioritising quick and decisive action can prevent potential accidents and protect lives.
Educating Family Members
Ensuring that all family members are well-informed about gas cylinder safety is paramount. Children, in particular, should be educated on the importance of not meddling with gas appliances and being able to identify the signs of a gas leak.
By instilling this knowledge, households can empower everyone to recognise potential hazards and take appropriate action, thereby fostering a safer environment for all occupants. Education plays a crucial role in preventing accidents and promoting responsible behaviour when dealing with gas cylinders at home.
Read more: Car Fire Safety: Common Causes and Immediate Things to Do
Importance of Professional Assistance
Seeking professional assistance for gas-related tasks is crucial to upholding safety standards and regulatory compliance. Certified technicians possess the expertise and training to handle installations, repairs, and maintenance of gas appliances and cylinders.
Entrusting these tasks to professionals minimises the risk of errors or safety hazards, ensuring the well-being of occupants. By adhering to professional standards, households can maintain the integrity of their gas systems and mitigate the potential for accidents or incidents arising from improper handling or maintenance.
Safety Tips for Cooking with Gas
When using gas stoves for cooking, prioritise kitchen ventilation to disperse any gas fumes effectively. Never leave the stove unattended while cooking to prevent potential accidents.
Additionally, avoid wearing loose clothing that could easily catch fire, and ensure that flammable objects are kept at a safe distance from the stove.
Read more: School Fire Hazard Safety: Essential preventive measures to minimise risk
Final Words
In numerous households in Bangladesh, LPG cylinder is used for cooking. Therefore, the safety issue of LPG cylinders is non-negotiable. By following these precautions and guidelines while using gas cylinders, households can minimise the risk of fire hazards and ensure safer cooking environments.
Why Making and Keeping Friends is Harder as an Adult
Children can make new friends easily. But as an individual passes childhood and adolescence, the circle of friends becomes smaller. And, reaching a mature age, many people discover that it’s not easy anymore to find true friendships. Entering adulthood brings a myriad of responsibilities and often causes a shift in priorities. While friendships are cherished, making new connections becomes notably challenging. This article delves into the intricacies of forming friendships in adulthood while exploring the hurdles many grown-up people face in this endeavour.
Why is it Difficult to Develop News Friendship at a Mature Age?
Changing Dynamics in Adulthood
When a person enters professional life and eventually starts a family, responsibilities take centre stage. Then day by day issues like career, conjugal life, children, and other personal pursuits become focal points of that person’s life, leaving less time and energy for socialising. The shift in priorities can lead to a natural distancing from the spontaneous social interactions that characterise youth.
Established Social Circles
Entering established friend groups can be challenging. Long-lasting friendships often have a shared history which makes it harder for newcomers to find common ground. Breaking into these circles demands effort and a willingness to navigate existing dynamics.
Read more: How to Buy a Used Motorcycle: A Detailed Checklist
Fear of Rejection
The fear of rejection intensifies with age. Mature individuals may hesitate to initiate friendships and fear that others may not reciprocate. This fear is rooted in the vulnerability of opening oneself to potential rejection which makes the process more daunting.
Communication Styles
Differences in communication styles between individuals can pose obstacles. Due to professionalism and social norms, adults usually maintain distinct approaches to conservation and socialising with new people they meet.
However, an indecent approach or over-enthusiasm to create a connection with new people may lead to misunderstandings or discomfort. Navigating the decent and right way of communication requires patience and adaptability.
Read more: Bearing Legacy Mindset: How Do You Want to Be Remembered?
Limited Opportunities
Studies indicate that, on average, it requires approximately 50 hours to form a casual friendship, while developing close friendships demands an investment of around 200 hours. As responsibilities pile up, opportunities for socialising diminish.
Work demands, family commitments, and other obligations leave little room for older adults to make spontaneous social encounters. As a result, finding time to nurture new friendships becomes a rare occurrence.
Preconceived Notions
When a child makes a new friend, it starts with a pure mind without prejudice. But it rarely happens in the case of mature persons.
Read more: Micro-acts of Joy: Secret to Being Happier and Healthier?
Preconceived notions about individuals’ geographical, religious, political or social identity can hinder the formation of friendships among adults. Stereotypes and expectations based on age can create barriers and prevent people from seeing beyond assumptions and embracing the potential for meaningful connections.
Building Trust Takes Time
Trust is one of the most crucial elements of any friendship, and it tends to take longer to develop in mature relationships. Past experiences, caution, and a heightened awareness of personal boundaries contribute to the gradual nature of trust-building.
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh holds ‘Fashion and Lifestyle Marketing Fest’ in Dhaka
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh held a ‘Fashion and Lifestyle Marketing Fest’ at the Westin Dhaka on Saturday night.
The event brought together 34 illustrious speakers from diverse realms of the fashion industry, delivering profound insights across eight pivotal sessions.
A crowning moment of the event was the unveiling of the fourth edition of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh's magazine, ‘Business Brillianz’. This edition chronicles the illustrious journey and contributions of Syed Manzur Elahi, Chairman of the Board of Apex Footwear Limited, a titan in Bangladesh's business landscape.
Hadi Chowdhury, Head of Retail Operations of YELLOW, the event's title sponsor, exuded pride in their association, remarking, “We are honoured to be the title partner of this fest, addressing pivotal issues in contemporary fashion and lifestyle marketing and business promotion. YELLOW, synonymous with unparalleled quality, has been a stalwart in product manufacturing since its inception.”
Mirza Muhammad Ileush, Founder and CEO of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh, articulated the organization's unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability within the fashion and lifestyle industry. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, envisioning a future brimming with impactful marketing fests aimed at showcasing Bangladesh's unique fashion identity on a global stage.
In the closing speech, Shohrab Hossain Guddu of Brand Practitioners Bangladesh extended warm appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and partners, underscoring the fest's collaborative spirit and shared dedication to industry advancement.
Brand Practitioners Bangladesh is a pioneering entity dedicated to nurturing excellence in marketing and brand management. Through a diverse array of initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and networking events, the organization empowers professionals to navigate the ever evolving landscape of marketing with finesse and creativity.