Why hoarding documents is risky and how to avoid it

(NC) Boxes of old documents, stacks of old hard drives and computers, and containers of confidential information all find themselves in storage. While you may think this will allow you to access them easily, many of us probably often end up forgetting about them and continue to stockpile even more.

This kind of storage poses health, safety and security risks. By hoarding a lifetime’s worth of documents, you risk exposure to mould and bacteria, along with the added stress and tension of having to deal with so much piling up in the house. Additionally, you risk your safety by having so many items (mostly paper) in one place, which often acts as a fire hazard. It may also cause accidents if boxes fall on you or you injure yourself while accessing them.

However, the biggest risk that hoarding documents poses is one of fraud or identity theft. Having a mountain of documents may lead frustrated people to simply throw out a few boxes with the trash. But clever fraudsters are known to dumpster dive and pull documents that yield valuable personal information.

According to Shred-it, a leader in information security and document destruction, decluttering on a regular

basis should be a priority. Not only does it help prevent the risks mentioned above, decluttering can also improve productivity and motivation and boosts mental health and creativity.

Use these tips to begin editing your storage:

•Tackle Before you know it, the pile will shrink and you will feel less stressed.

one box at a time. • Create a document management process

to outline how you will deal with all documents from when you receive them to the time you destroy them, thus preventing a stockpile from even starting.

• Begin digitizing and reorganizing your files.

You will realize there are things that you shouldn’t be holding on to at all and be able to better manage your information in the long run.

• Purge your storage regularly.

Trusted partners like Shred-it can help to clean out your storage on a regular basis, ensuring the mountain of files doesn’t keep growing.

(NC) Do you try to hold winter at bay by keeping your winter boots packed away until the first snowstorm hits? Although denying the inevitable onset of our harshest season may give you a psychological lift, experts say it’s important to get your winter footwear out and thoroughly checked over well before winter arrives with a fury.

“Canadian winters are tough— frigid temperatures, ice-covered paths and endless snow and slush can cause serious harm unless you are prepared,” explains Peter Morcom, president of the Pedorthic Association of Canada and a Canadian certified pedorthist. “A quality pair of lined, properly fitted winter boots is essential for winter in Canada.”

Although he doesn’t recommend one style or brand of boots, Morcom says these seven tips will help ensure you are well-equipped for everything winter has in store.

1. Winter footwear doesn’t last indefinitely,

typically only one to three seasons. If you are using the same pair of boots as last winter, inspect them closely to make sure there are no rips or cracks that could allow water to permeate.

2. Traction is key.

To minimize slipping, select footwear that has a more aggressive tread and a sole made with softer materials such as rubber. If you have balance issues and are concerned about falling, buy cleats that stretch over your boots for extra traction.

3. Only buy footwear that is waterproof,

and wear moisture-wicking socks to further protect your feet. Wet feet increase the risk of frostbite and fungal or bacterial infection.

4. Make sure your boots fit properly.

Your feet can change size over time and footwear sizes differ from style to style, so have your feet measured every time and only buy boots that feel comfortable the first time you try them on.

5. If you spend a lot of time outside,

choose a pair of boots with a colder temperature range than you need

as they will provide you with extra comfort and protection.

6. Don’t buy boots that aren’t supportive.

Some fashionable sheepskin styles of boots look cozy and warm but they won’t provide the support your feet and lower limbs require. Stylish, leatherheeled boots should be kept for special occasions.

7. Don’t ask your children to wear hand-me-down boots or buy boots with room for them to grow.

Boots that are too big or too small will chafe or squish their toes, which will cause blisters and rubs.

Find more information at pedorthic.ca.