Safer VRS Eric Thibodeaux

In this episode, we're going to explore some critical strategies for managing safety effectively within the vacation rental industry. I'll be sharing insights and practices that have proven successful in enhancing safety and preventing incidents. So let's dive into these four key aspects together.

1. Predicting Failures


 Proactively identify safety risks.
 Focus on minimizing impact with controls.

2. Simplifying Operations


 Streamline processes with guest and team member ease in mind.
 Involve team members to enhance efficiency.

3. Responding to Signals


 Address low-level signals promptly.
 Prioritize proper training and serious response.

4. Deliberate Event Response


 Respond thoughtfully to incidents.
 Avoid emotional reactions and hasty policy changes.

By proactively addressing potential issues, streamlining operations, responding to signals, and handling events thoughtfully, you'll create a safer environment for everyone.

Stay connected with us via the Safer Vacation Rentals Facebook group or our email list at www.safervrs.com.

If you have questions or need assistance, reach out to me at eric@safervrs.com.

Remember, safety is a shared responsibility. Together, we can ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

Create a safe day!

I recently had the pleasure of being a guest on Rebecca Lombardo's Youtube channel, VendorVibes. In our conversation, we explored some crucial topics related to vacation rental safety and loss prevention.

Today, I'm excited to share some key takeaways and insights from that discussion right here on Safer VRS  podcast.

So, stick around for these valuable points:


 Safer VRS is dedicated to improving safety and loss prevention for property managers and owners in the vacation rental industry.
 Our holistic approach combines safety expertise with property management experience.
 Safer VRS offers adaptable services, including hands-on assistance and valuable training materials.
 No prerequisites are needed to work with us, whether you manage one property or hundreds.
 Safety is about the "presence of controls," not just prevention.

You can also watch the episode here.

Welcome to the Safer VRS podcast. Today, we're diving deep into the essence of safety and how it intertwines with who we are at our core. What makes my perspective unique is my belief that safety isn't just about preventing accidents – it's about preparing for the unforeseen and integrating safety into our very identity and values.

Key Takeaways:



Safety goes beyond prevention; it involves preparing for unexpected events and implementing controls to minimize their impact.



Thoughts are the catalysts of safety-related actions, and emotions have a profound influence on behavior.



Aligning your actions with your core identity yields superior results in both safety and business.



It typically takes around 67 days to make actions an integral part of your core identity.



Values are deeply ingrained in our subconscious, guiding decision-making, and responses to challenges.



Over time, certain values become more prominent, shaping our choices and actions.



Embrace safety as a core value, as it is fundamental to success in both safety and business endeavors.



By embracing safety as a core part of our identity and values, we not only enhance our own lives but also create a safer environment for those around us. Remember, safety isn't just about following protocols; it's about shaping our thoughts, emotions, and actions to prioritize safety in all aspects of life.

Thank you for joining me today on the Safer VRS podcast, and I encourage you to make safety an integral part of your core identity.Create a safe day!

Welcome to an another insightful episode of the Safer VRS podcast. Coming to you from a safety conference in Arkansas, I've got some exciting updates about our vacation rental property, Thistle Oaks. And don't forget to mark your calendars for the book release of Vacation Rental Secrets, where I'm a contributor. But today's topic is a bit different yet crucial – understanding OSHA reporting for workplace incidents. Let's dive in.

In this episode, we explore the essential aspects of OSHA reporting for workplace incidents. Here's what you need to know:


We delve into the OSHA reporting criteria, which mandates the reporting of fatalities, severe injuries, amputations, and eye loss in the workplace. This reporting requirement extends to incidents whether or not they are work-related.
We discuss the significance of immediate reporting in the event of an employee's death on the job, emphasizing the importance of taking swift action once the employer is aware of the incident.
Exploring the realm of inpatient hospitalization, amputations, and eye loss, we highlight the need to report such incidents within 24 hours. Timeliness and accuracy are crucial during the reporting process.
We outline the reporting process itself, detailing the options available such as contacting the nearest OSHA office, using the OSHA hotline, or reporting incidents online. Developing internal procedures for reporting and identifying key contacts is equally vital.
Lastly, we explore how to navigate OSHA letters and investigations, providing insights into crafting effective responses to rapid response investigation letters, including explaining the issue, referencing relevant rules, outlining corrective actions, and indicating when the issue will be resolved.

While workplace incidents are infrequent in our industry, understanding OSHA's reporting guidelines is crucial for maintaining a culture of safety. Whether it's a fatality, severe injury, amputation, or eye loss, a proactive approach to reporting ensures the well-being of everyone involved. For more guidance, feel free to reach out to me at eric@safervrs.com.

Until next time, stay informed and stay safe.

I'm excited to have you back for another episode of the Safer VRS Podcast. Today, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for your guests' safety - dealing with heat and fire risks, especially during dry and hot times. 

Key Takeaways:


   Dry Conditions and Fire Risk
   What Starts a Fire
   How Heat Moves
   Grill Safety Steps
   Fire Pit Tips
   Check and Double-Check

Hot days and fire risks are a combo we've got to handle smartly. Understanding the basics of fire risks and using simple safety tricks can make a big difference. Safety isn't just one person's job - it's everyone's job.

By working together and keeping these safety steps in mind, we can make sure your vacation rental stays safe and enjoyable.

If you've got questions or thoughts, drop me a line at eric@safervrs.com or head to our website, www.safervrs.com. Thanks for hanging out with me today.

Stay safe out there, and catch you on the next episode.

Welcome back to the Safer VR Podcast! Currently, I'm in Gulf Shores, where I've been checking properties and making sure everything is in order. As summer winds down, I wanted to share a recent incident that happened here, which emphasizes an essential yet often overlooked safety topic: dropped objects.

Luckily, no one was hurt, but it serves as a valuable lesson in preventing potential hazards. Today, we'll explore the significance of this issue, understand the risks, and discuss practical ways to enhance safety in your vacation rental properties.

Key takeaways in this episode:

1. The Incident: A two-year-old accidentally dropped a Bluetooth speaker from the 17th-floor condo, narrowly missing a guest on the ground. It highlights the importance of preventing dropped objects to avoid potential injuries or fatalities.

2. Dropped Objects Calculator: Using a drops objects calculator, we analyze different object weights and heights to understand the potential impact on people below. Even seemingly small objects dropped from moderate heights can cause severe harm.

3. Balcony Safety Measures: Balconies pose risks, with small gaps that can allow objects to fall through. We discuss the significance of keeping balconies clean and free of objects and why guests should be discouraged from throwing items over the edge.

4. Equipment Damage: Besides endangering people, objects blown by wind can damage external equipment like cooling towers, causing disruptions to essential services and amenities.

Safety is paramount in the vacation rental industry. The incident in Gulf Shores serves as a reminder of the need to be proactive in preventing dropped objects. Small objects dropped from moderate heights can lead to significant injuries or worse.

By keeping balconies clean, educating guests, and being vigilant about potential hazards, we can create a safer environment for everyone.Let's work together to prioritize safety and protect our guests, owners, and employees.

Remember, it's the little things that can make a big difference in safeguarding lives. If you have any questions or need assistance in your vacation rental business's loss prevention efforts, feel free to reach out.

Have a safe day, everyone!