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Cael Innovation: Electric Vehicles can be ´Picked Up Full and Returned Empty´

Cael, a reference in the car rental sector, has just launched a revolutionary policy for its electric vehicles. From now on, our customers will have the option of "picking up their electric vehicles fully charged, without having to worry about the charge when returning them". You will return it in as-is condition.
This marks a significant change in the company’s approach to the management of electric fuels.
 
This new initiative, aimed exclusively at Cael's electric vehicles, aims to optimize the driver's experience, simplifying the recharging process. Customers will be able to pick up their vehicles fully charged, enjoying their full autonomy, and, when returning them, they will not need to worry about recharging the battery to return the vehicle.
 
Benefits for our customers:
 
Convenience: The new policy eliminates the need for drivers to spend time recharging vehicles before return, providing a more convenient experience.
 
Efficiency: By not requiring vehicles to be returned with the same charge, Cael promotes more efficient use of the charging infrastructure, optimizing available resources.
 
Sustainability: The focus on electric vehicles reinforces Cael's commitment to more sustainable practices, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and minimizing the carbon footprint.
 
By adopting this new "pick up full and return empty" policy for its electric vehicles, Cael reinforces its position at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the car rental sector. This measure not only simplifies customers' lives, but also contributes to building a cleaner and more efficient future in urban transport.

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Electric Vehicles: Corporate Solution!

CAEL, a leader in vehicle rental solutions, is proud to announce a new addition to its fleet: state-of-the-art electric cars! This initiative offers companies the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint without restrictions, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
 
By choosing to rent an electric vehicle with CAEL, companies not only demonstrate a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), but also benefit from several significant advantages:
 
1. Sustainable Driving in Low Emission Zones: Electric vehicles allow companies to drive in areas with strict environmental regulations, preparing for future public policies.
 
2. Tax Benefits and Lower Operating Costs: The operating costs of an electric car are substantially lower compared to vehicles with combustion engines. Furthermore, the cost of electrical energy is considerably lower than that spent on traditional fuels.
 
3. Increased Corporate Social Responsibility: By adopting a fleet of electric cars, companies demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility, positively impacting their institutional image.
 
4. Attractive Tax Advantages: VAT deduction and exemption from autonomous taxation are just some of the tax advantages when opting for a fleet of electric vehicles.
 
5. Efficient and Convenient Charging: Electric vehicles provide a fast and safe charging experience. If installing a charging point at your company is not in your plans, you can use a domestic electrical plug.
 
To make charging on the go even simpler, we're proud to announce our partnership with miio. This application offers an intuitive search for charging stations, in addition to allowing digital payment, making your trips even more practical and hassle-free.
 
CAEL is excited to lead the way towards more sustainable mobility and invites all companies to be part of this ecological revolution!
 
Join us in the transition to a future with less environmental impact!
 
For more information and reservations, get in touch via email: partnerships@cael.pt or reservas@cael.pt

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Free textbooks: rules and dates for the 2021-2022 school yea

In the 2021-2022 school year, all compulsory education students (1st to 12th grade) in public and private schools with association contracts will once again receive free textbooks. Students from private schools without an association contract remain outside the free and reuse of school textbooks program.
 
What can I do to receive free textbooks?
The free allocation of textbooks is carried out by the MEGA platform, through a system of vouchers (vouchers). Each voucher includes a unique code and has the corresponding manual indicated.
To access the vouchers, the parent must register on the MEGA platform. You can do it in two ways: on the Edu Rede Escolar mobile app or on www.manuaisescolares.pt.
 
See in this video how to register on the MEGA platform. Registration is free.
 
After registering on the MEGA platform, vouchers associated with the student's guardian's Tax Identification Number (NIF) are issued. If vouchers are awarded for collecting new free textbooks, they must be presented in one of the participating bookstores. If vouchers are awarded for collecting free used textbooks, they must be handed over to the school.
 
When are vouchers awarded?
The dates for granting vouchers for collecting free textbooks for the 2021-2022 school year are as follows:
From August 16th
2nd, 3rd, 4th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 11th and 12th grade students.
From the 23rd of August
1st, 5th, 7th and 10th grade students.
 
When vouchers are available on the platform, or in the app, the guardian is notified by email. Alternatively, the guardian can check, on the platform itself, in their personal area, whether vouchers have already been issued. Simply click Schools with vouchers and select the student's grouping and school. If the school does not show up, it means that vouchers have not yet been issued.
 
Do vouchers include activity books and cards?
No. Vouchers are only issued for textbooks. The activity notebooks and worksheets, as well as the other components of the so-called teaching packs, must be purchased by the families.
 
Do free textbooks have to be returned to school?
Yes. Textbooks distributed free of charge must be returned to the school by the guardian, in good condition, for re-use in the following school year.
If the guardian returns the free textbooks in poor condition, other than as a result of normal use, he is obliged to pay for them or, if he does not do so, he loses the right to them in the following school year. Note that each manual is considered individually, that is, if the manual of only one subject is not delivered in good condition, the right to receive the manual of that subject in the following academic year is only lost.
 
There is also the possibility of paying the full value of textbooks delivered in poor condition, thus being entitled to receive them in the next school year.
 
When must they be returned?
Textbooks distributed free of charge must be returned at the end of the academic year or at the end of the study cycle, in the case of subjects subject to examination. In the latter case, the manuals must be delivered three days after taking the respective exam.
In case of retention (lead), the student can keep the manuals relating to the cycle or subjects in question until their conclusion.
 
Are there any exceptions?
Yes. Students in the 1st cycle of basic education do not have to return free textbooks. At this level of education, new free textbooks are distributed.
 
Who checks the status of returned manuals?
It is up to schools to assess the state of conservation and sort the free textbooks returned.
 
Text taken from montepio.org

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2021 Summer Vacation: What to Watch Out For in Pandemic Times

In the middle of school holidays and consequently the holiday period of most Portuguese families, we have to think that Covid doesn't (yet) take a vacation.
We all need to rest, and this year, once again, we will be able to do it safely, because “vacations are holidays”.
 
Who to go on vacation with?
We must take vacations with those who belong to our household and maintain a physical distance from the other people that we will inevitably meet on vacation, namely those who will provide services to us in the places where we go on vacation.
Do not forget to keep your physical distance, wear a mask and clean your hands and surfaces.
 
Can we travel outside Portugal?
Yes, but we must carefully consider this decision and consult the information about possible restrictions in the country of origin, the country of “transition” and the country of destination.
 
holidays in Portugal
Holidays in Portugal this year is the most suitable. We help the Portuguese economy to grow, we support our companies and we feel protected.
For this, in addition to verifying the existence of the “Establishment Clean & Safe” seal, which distinguishes tourist activities that ensure all the control requirements for the new coronavirus (Cael holds this seal), this year we must take into account other measures :
 
Before leaving:
– Book the place of stay in advance
– Give preference to establishments with the “Clean & Safe” seal
– Find out about the access and safety conditions of the places you visit
 
When traveling:
– Remember that the use of a mask is mandatory
– Give preference to national destinations
 
On the beach:
– Minimum mandatory distance of 1.5m between people who are not part of the same group and 3m between parasols
– Wear a protective mask until reaching the beach, when using restaurants or toilets and whenever physical distance is not possible
– Prohibited sports activities with 2 or more people
– Avoid areas with high occupancy (see signs or consult the Info Praia app)
 
In the hotel:
– Respect physical distance and use a mask in common spaces
– It is mandatory to present the Digital Certificate or a negative test throughout the mainland
– Disinfect your hands regularly and follow the respiratory label
 
In restaurants:
– Requirement of digital certificate or negative test when accessing restaurants, for meals inside, in high or very high risk municipalities. This measure only applies on Fridays from 7 pm and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays throughout the day.
– Limit on the number of People, depending on the municipality's risk level
In addition to the measures mentioned, it is prohibited to circulate on public roads from 23:00 in high and very high risk municipalities. Check out all the measures of the Release Plan here and have a safe and worry-free summer.
 
If you're going on a long trip, don't forget to prepare your car.
If you chose Portugal for your 2021 summer vacation, and the means of transport chosen to do so is your own vehicle, we still have some tips:
 
1. Overhaul
Don't hit the road without checking your car's general condition. Pay special attention to the tyres, brakes, lights, coolant, oil and windshield wipers. Also confirm that you have a reflective vest and a warning triangle.
 
2. Check documents
Make sure you have everything in order with your vehicle's documentation, such as: unique vehicle document, insurance certificate and periodic inspection form. Also check that you are carrying your driving license and that you have up-to-date insurance and inspection.
 
3. Prepare your route
Make a travel plan in advance, as well as the route to follow and which filling stations you will need. You can always use GPS from your car or your smartphone to help.
 
4. Pack the trunk
Try to take with you only what you will need to avoid overloading. Organize your luggage and distribute your weight in order to maintain the balance of the suspensions. Still maintain visibility to the rear and if possible take a first aid kit with you
 
5. Rest and hydrate yourself
Take a break from driving every 2 hours to rest your legs, arms and eyesight. Also always have water nearby to drink during the trip, this will help to keep you more comfortable.
 
As an option, you can rent your car at Cael and we will take care of all this preparation for you!

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Advice for Traveling Safely This Summer

Temperatures rise more and more during the spring, the days become longer and the thirst for travel is becoming insatiable, isn't it? However, this summer we will have to be more cautious to prevent the pandemic from returning with all its might, damaging our plans for a not-so-distant future, with family and friends. Are you already planning your next trip? So here are some tips for you to travel safely this summer.
 
Stay only in accommodation with the Clean & Safe seal
 
This “Clean & Safe Establishment” seal is a recognition that Turismo de Portugal grants to companies in the Tourism sector that comply with the recommendations of the Directorate-General for Health (DGS), in order to avoid contamination of spaces. Thus, the accommodations that carry this seal follow the cleaning regulations and precautions required by the DGS, ensuring that the space is safe for guests. Before traveling, make sure that the accommodation you intend to stay in has this seal.
 
Avoid crowds
 
Tourist spots have a tradition of generating agglomerations, with people of different nationalities, ages and health histories in close contact. For your safety and that of others, avoid these places, especially at peak times. Prefer open places, with few contact surfaces (benches, handrails, small ornaments, etc.) and use the mask if you feel more comfortable.
 
Use masks and gloves for public transport and supermarkets
 
As you may already know, since the beginning of May the use of masks inside supermarkets and public transport is mandatory. However, to complement your protection, it is recommended to use gloves in places with a lot of manual contact, such as when shopping. If you prefer, you can always carry a bottle with gel alcohol or liquid alcohol, complementing the cleaning of your hands and arms.
 
The protection and cleaning measures must be followed mainly in closed places and with agglomerations. However, in the open places, with few people and especially in the accommodation with DGS certification, allow yourself to enjoy the summer with tranquility and optimism.
 
This way you can renew your energies and resume your daily tasks with even more certainty that, very soon, everything will be fine.

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Coronavirus: everything you need to know to have your car sanitized

The steering wheel of an automobile can be four times more dirty than the lid of a public toilet, so it is important to keep it clean. In this way, we will be fighting the spread of the coronavirus. We live in difficult times when there is little care. It is now important to be responsible and do everything possible to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Regular hand cleaning is one of the behaviors that we should adopt and the same applies to things that we touch with our hands frequently, such as door handles or our mobile phone. This also applies to our car.
 
Whether it's because we need to use the car for any emergency, or simply because we're still working out and we still need it to move around, it is important to keep your cabin clean. Even more so what we touch with our hands, such as the steering wheel, the shift lever or the radio buttons. This gains special relevance if we take into account a study carried out by CarRentals.com, which states that the steering wheel of a car can be four times more dirty than the lid of a public toilet. Scary, right?
 
Keeping the car clean helps fight coronavirus
The interior of our car is a favorable place for the proliferation of bacteria and we must combat this. As? Make a small cleaning, a little throughout the car (with special emphasis on the places we touch with our hands) with a clean cloth (preferably microfiber) and a liquid alcohol-based solution. It is also important to have a small alcohol-based disinfectant to use whenever entering and exiting the vehicle. With these small gestures, you will be helping to fight the spread of the coronavirus.

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Do you have expiring documents? You don´t need to go and renew them.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic and to prevent people from leaving home, the Government has extended the period of validity of several documents and other commitments. Confirm what they are.
 
Citizen card, driving license, criminal record, certificates and residence visas
All documents that were valid until March 9 will be accepted until June 30 by public authorities without any obligation or penalty.
 
Car inspection
The deadline for carrying out the Mandatory Periodic Inspection (IPO) may be extended by another three months for vehicles with an inspection date until March 11. According to Jornal de Notícias, negotiations are still ongoing between the inspection centers, the Government and the IMT.
 
Forgiveness of fines and tax exemption
If due to health reasons, due to the coronavirus, taxpayers or certified accountants are prevented from fulfilling their tax obligations, they will not have to pay fines. In companies and public services, the Government has also postponed some deadlines to fulfill tax obligations:
The special payment on account, which should be made in March, can be made until June 30, 2020.
The submission of the periodic income tax return (Model 22 declaration) for the 2019 tax period, can be completed until July 31, 2020
The first payment on account and the first additional payment on account, to be made in July, can be made until August 31, 2020
 
Courts
The judicial courts, administrative and tax courts, arbitral tribunals, the Public Prosecution Service, judges of peace and alternative dispute resolution entities, start to operate in a regime similar to that of the judicial vacation. The deadlines for the proceedings are suspended and the only exception applies to acts intended “to ensure the normal functioning of the services”.

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How to take care of yourself during isolation

These are the tips that clinical psychologist Chantal Feron shares for better managing anxiety in these times of confinement. Above all, she leaves the warning: "It is essential to take care of yourself."
 
Maintain a healthy diet, avoid alcohol, tobacco and other consumption.
Practice physical exercise regularly and maintain routines and schedules, favoring eight hours of sleep daily; Have a good support network.
 
Share good news, maintain a sense of humor and critical ability, but also be able to talk about your fears and concerns;
 
Take breaks, especially when you feel tired and if your emotions intensify, your thoughts become fatalistic or catastrophic or to avoid accumulating anxiety throughout the day;
 
Do something you like, like listening to music, playing an instrument or painting;
Avoid listening to and reading all kinds of news. Choose your sources and restrict yourself to the most reliable and trustworthy ones;
 
Seek help if you need it. Contact a helpline or healthcare professional. The Psychological Counseling Line is in operation at SNS 24 (808 24 24 24), which has 63 psychologists who provide advice to both the general population and health professionals;
 
Keep in touch with friends and family. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each one in order to know what roles and role they should assume. Talk about interests, hobbies and future projects. Listen carefully to others and share experiences and emotions. Offer or ask for help (if needed) for purchases of food, medicine and transportation;
 
Make use of new technologies and exercise together, combine meals or breakfast with someone (via Skype or WhatsApp, for example). Try yoga, pilates or mindfulness, as there are several applications and instructors willing to teach online;
 
Practice relaxation and breathing techniques daily to control anxiety. Meditate, be silent and accept your emotions;
 
Adapt the house to current needs, taking into account teleworking, children and spouse, even if this implies some more profound changes.

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COVID-19 | Information

In compliance with the recent legislation published in Portugal, on the regulation of Rent a Car activity in the face of the Covid-19 outbreak, we inform all our customers that we continue to open doors to serve you even taking into account the restrictions imposed on the use and circulation of vehicles.
 
CAEL, aware of the difficult time that we are all living in, keeps its doors open so that mobility, in the cases provided for by law, such as travel for the purchase of essential goods or services, namely medicines, travel for health reasons or for assistance to other people is a reality at a time when the general confinement rule is a national imperative.
 
The health and well-being of our customers and employees is essential to us. For this reason, we are following all the guidelines of the General Health Department, both in terms of customer service and vehicle preparation, as well as in the internal procedures for the execution of tasks by our employees.
 
CAEL makes Disinfectant Gel available to all its customers and employees at all of its rental stations.
 
All of our operations have individual protection material, such as protective masks and disposable gloves, so that the reduction of contagion is effective. CAEL also recommends to all its employees that, during the delivery and collection of vehicles, the appropriate social distance is maintained. CAEL also recommends frequent hand washing to all its employees so that everyone feels safe and protected in these times of instability.
 
CAEL, a car rental company born in 1958, wants to leave a word of HOPE here to all its customers and employees, with the compliance with the safety rules disclosed by the General Health Directorate in a joint effort between all of us, we will do with let everything be well!
 
In these almost 62 years of life, CAEL has been able to overcome many of the obstacles it had along the way, together, we will certainly be able to overcome also what seems to be the most difficult of our lives.

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How to recover the IUC paid on imported cars

“Taxpayers can claim the tax return from Finance.
 
The Tax and Customs Authority has given guidance to the services to grant the claims for the refund of the Single Circulation Tax for cars imported from the EU, with the first registration prior to July 2007.
 
Until December 31, 2019, the IUC of used cars imported from the European Union or from countries in the European Economic Area was calculated based on the date of registration of import into Portugal. Since January 1, 2020, it has become the first registration of the relevant car to determine the IUC.
 
In an information note published on the Finance Portal, the Tax and Customs Authority states that, even though the law that came into force on January 1, 2020, according to which the IUC liquidation now considers the year of the vehicle's first registration, only "change the taxation for the future", it was decided "not to proceed with the litigation in this matter in relation to the assessments prior to the entry into force of that law".
 
In other words, regarding the tax paid in previous years, AT gave guidance to the services to defer "any gracious complaints, hierarchical resources or unofficial reviews that have the object of IUC settlements, of imported vehicles, in which AT considered the date of attribution. of registration in national territory and not the date of attribution of the first registration in another Member State of the European Union or the European Economic Area ".
 
Still within the scope of the spirit of reducing litigation, it was decided to "revoke the tax act" for the judicial process that is already in this phase or "to proceed to the unofficial review of the IUC liquidation acts" that have been the subject of a judicial challenge process .
 
Attention to the 1st registration of the classics
 
Owners of imported classic cars registered after July 2007 now face the challenge of being able to prove the provenance of the first registration, which in most cases coincides with the year of manufacture.
 
Until now, anyone who had bought a classic over 30 years old had to prove that the registration had existed long enough to satisfy the customs criteria of the maximum discount in terms of Vehicle Tax.
 
Much of the manufacture of post-war European sports cars (from the 1940s to the 1980s) was destined for the US market where they were registered. At the end of the 1980s, with the growing interest in classic sports, there was a massive return to Europe.
Since 2007, thousands of classics have been traded one or more times, a situation that makes it difficult to know the origin of the first registration. For these cases, a “family tree” of the vehicle will be required: if the owner has copies of the import process, there may be a copy of the first registration booklet in an EU member state. In case there is no documentation other than the DUA, a certificate of first registration must be requested from the IMT counterpart in the country of origin.
 
The absence of any kind of proof of a first registration in a European Union country makes the process unfeasible. ”

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Tips for safe driving at Christmas and New Year´s Eve

The end-of-year season is associated with an increase in road accidents. This Christmas and New Year's Eve pay attention to the way you drive. Take note of these tips and drive safely during the holidays.
 
With the start of the Christmas and festive season, traffic intensifies on the roads as there are many who reserve the last days to buy gifts for the family and take care of the last preparations for the holidays. The risk of road accidents increases, so more attention needs to be paid to driving these days in particular.
 
Every year, numerous road accidents are recorded during Christmas and New Year's Eve, related to the erratic behavior of many drivers. In such a positive time, try to avoid behaviors that put your safety at risk. Try to drive safely on this special court.
 
Attention to the amount of alcohol you consume
 
The excesses committed during Christmas and New Year's Eve is one of the facts that needs further reflection on the part of drivers. Driving under the influence of alcohol is the phenomenon that causes the most victims on the road. Don't rely on your judgment after a night of too much champagne! If you plan to drink for Christmas dinner and New Year's Eve, also plan your stay or use a taxi service.
 
Driving attention when tired or fatigued
 
If you do not consume alcoholic beverages, be aware that driving after a night as stressful as Christmas or New Year's Eve also affects your cognitive, preceptive and motor skills. You must rest before driving and making stops, if the journey is long. Choose to spend the night in a hotel with your family and get back on the road after a night's rest.
 
Beware of the confusion hunting for Christmas presents
 
During this holiday season, people tend to be busier and hurriedly move to large department stores to buy the last Christmas gifts for their cousin, nephew and sister-in-law who only confirmed their presence at the last minute. Intensifying traffic requires a greater safety distance and controlled speed. Don't put your safety at risk and remember: it's better late than never!
 
Leave the Happy Holidays messages out of the car
 
Wish "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year" to family, friends, neighbors or acquaintances while you are driving. Using your mobile phone while driving reduces your attention and perception in the face of obstacles on your route. It is a risky behavior on the road that, in addition to being punishable by law, increases the risk of suffering a road accident.
 
Beware of snow and ice
 
The temperatures that are felt at this time of the year make phenomena such as snow and ice propitious. The idea of ​​a white Christmas can be very funny, if you are observing the phenomenon of the home window. On the road, pay special attention to your car's tires and lighting and, if possible, avoid driving on snow or ice.
 
 
Drive safely during the festive season.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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At the age of 14 he invented the end of blind spots

Her name is Alaina Gassler, she doesn't drive, but she managed to solve the problem of lack of vision for drivers created by the so-called A pillar, with a simple and inexpensive solution.
 
Using relatively inexpensive and readily available technology that can be found in any electronics store, Alaina Gassler, a 14-year-old inventor from West Grove, Pennsylvania, in the United States, has created a clever way to eliminate the blind spot created by the thick pillars around side of the car windshield, as you can see in this video:
 
 
Gassler is too young to have a driving license and has never experienced the frustration of driving and feeling the problems created by these pillars, but that hasn't stopped her from facing a problem that manufacturers have long seemed to ignore. The solution invented by Alaina involves installing a microcamera on the outside of the windshield pillar, which will then project the images collected on the inside of the pillar. Through the printing of personalized 3D parts, they helped this little 14-year-old genius to perfectly align the projected image, so that it integrated correctly in the driver's field of vision, making the pillar invisible.
 
This invention was part of a project called "Improving car safety by removing blind spots", which Gassler presented at this year's Society for Science competition and earned him the main honor of the competition, the $ 25,000 Samueli Foundation Prize (about 22,500 euros).
 

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Learn how to react in a STOP operation

If you refuse to do the balloon test you can be punished for the crime of disobedience.
 
Failure to comply with a police order can be worth up to a year in jail or a fine of up to 120 days, in an amount to be fixed by the judge ”, warns Deco.
 
The Portuguese Association for Consumer Protection (Deco) clarified some doubts about the rights and duties of drivers and police officers in “STOP” operations on the road, to avoid that Portuguese drivers risk being sanctioned with a year in jail or a fine. up to 120 days.
 
Deco recalls that no one can refuse police control if the order is legitimate, including refusing to do the balloon test (or blood sampling / medical examination, instead). "It can be punished for a crime of disobedience", warns the association. More: they are allowed to seize assets that they have in the car if they are linked to the practice of crimes.
 
However, in the event of physical or psychological violence it is possible to file a complaint by email, by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt or in person at the premises of the General Inspection of Internal Administration (IGAI) or to resort to a criminal complaint in court. “If you feel that your rights are not being respected, report it to the police officer. Police action is not always free from errors and it may happen that the procedures provided for in the law are not complied with ”, suggest the association's experts.
 
As Deco says, the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic recognizes the right of resistance to citizens, but “the boundary between this right and the crime of resistance is unclear”. “It is considered a crime of resistance and coercion over an employee, punished with a prison sentence of between one and five years, the act that translates into violently resisting the authorities, either for aggression or for verbal threat”, he points out.

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The Mistakes We Continue to Make on the Highway

Excessive speed, the use of the mobile phone and the breach of the safety distance are the most common mistakes of those who drive on the highway. All of them not only put their own lives at stake, but that of others!
 
Due to the characteristics of the highway, we are induced to a sense of security. The wide lanes, the floor in good condition and the increased visibility contribute to this feeling of security and “at ease”, which often leads us to facilitate it.
 
For the third consecutive year, the “Observatory on the Behavior of Drivers in the Motorway Network” allowed to signal risk factors and interpret driving habits on those roads.
 
The study carried out on one of the busiest motorways in the Iberian Peninsula covered a sample of 44 thousand light vehicles and 12 thousand heavy vehicles, with five fundamental conclusions:
 
1 - Speed: the tendency to exceed the legal speed limits is maintained; more than 30% of the vehicles observed were traveling at speed, the largest portion exceeding the imposed limit by 10 km / h.
The good condition of the road and the unobstructed roads favor the feeling of safety when driving, but at high speeds the dangers increase.
 
2 - As shown by the study carried out last year, a significant number of motorists neglect the use of turn signals on motorways, especially when overtaking. According to data from the 2019 Observatory, 65.1% of drivers do not correctly signal that maneuver, a number that translates to a 12% increase compared to the 2018 results.
Studies prove that at 50km / h we have a 180º viewing angle, enough to anticipate dangers. But as the speed increases, the field of view narrows. And proportionately. At 100 km / h the viewing angle in front of us is already only 42º; a motorist driving on a highway at 150 km / h will have his visibility reduced to just 18º
 
3 - Respect the safety distance on the highway, where higher speeds are practiced than on other roads, allows to anticipate any emergency. It is concluded in this study that 15% of the light vehicles travel without concern to maintain minimum distances to the car in front.
The importance of the safety distance on the highway is explained by numbers: take into account the 0.75 seconds that is the average reaction time of a healthy person, when we travel at 120 km7h, before proceeding with an emergency stop, we have already covered almost 25 meters, to which we have to add the more than 60 meters that a car will need until complete immobilization.
 
4 - In 2018, more than 20% of fatalities in road accidents did not wear seat belts. In this year's report, 0.2% of the drivers observed did not have that device, which corresponds to a reduction of more than 50% compared to last year's data.
In 2018, more than 20% of road traffic fatalities did not wear a seat belt.
 
5 - On the contrary, the use of the phone behind the wheel has increased: 4.2% of drivers continue to dispense with the use of hands-free systems to make or receive telephone calls, an increase of 0.8%, compared to 2018.
Studies carried out allow us to conclude that dialing a contact number on a mobile phone, at a speed of 120 km / h, is equivalent to traveling 429 meters of motorway with eyes closed.

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Traveling with Pets?

During the holiday season, pets can be left aside. But as in other days of the year, our companions also need comfort and well-being on vacation, so we leave you with some tips for traveling with your four-legged friend.
 
It is the Spanish car brand Seat that warns: «And Portugal, more than ten thousand animals are abandoned per year, mostly dogs». This is a problem that cuts across the seasons, but is more critical in the holiday season.
 
If you aspire to a peaceful trip in the company of your dog (or cat), we have 8 tips that you can follow and thus reach your peaceful destination and enjoy a great vacation!
 
1 - Reduce stress and nausea
«Your dog should not eat anything for at least two hours before leaving. You should only give him fresh water and anti-nausea medications (natural, made with valerian or passionflower) to prevent vomiting and nausea, ”recommends Spanish veterinarian Armand Tabernero.
 
2 - Pet-friendly hotels
If you are going on holiday to a hotel, confirm that the hotel accepts pets. There are still few hotels that accept animals, but if you think about doing something different this year and making this the first criterion when you are looking for a place to stay, check out Conrad Algarve, which has several perks waiting for your friend from four paws.
 
3 - Never let your dog loose in the car
Animals must travel safely to ensure that they do not interfere with driving or the stability of the vehicle. Dogs cannot be loose in the car, as they can be spit violently in the event of an accident, from which fatal injuries can result, either to the animals or to the driver.
 
4 - Conveyors, harnesses and partitions for the safety of all
Small dogs can travel on a carrier placed on the floor of the rear seat or fastened with a seat belt. For dogs of any size, there is the option to protect them in the rear seat with a one or two point harness, attached to the seat belt.
 
5 - Protective covers for the rear seat and boot
Dogs can shed a lot of hair and tend to drool due to travel stress or heat. "Protect the upholstery and keep the seat cushions clean by placing protective covers on the seat and on the luggage compartment floor", recommends Miquel Contijoch, responsible for SEAT.
 
6 - Open the windows, but ...
... do not let your dog stick his head out, as this can cause infections in the ears and eyes of the animal. But, while traveling, it is a good idea to open the windows from time to time to renew the indoor air, even if the air conditioning is on.
 
7 - Park in the shade
It is important to stop to rest, at least every two hours, so that all occupants of the car can stretch their legs. It is a good idea to keep the windows slightly open and never leave your dog in the car. This stop will be a good time to rest and let your dog drink some water.
 
8 - A reward when it arrives at the destination
After a long journey, your dog should familiarize himself with the new place, eat something, get some fresh air and play. It is the appropriate time to reward you for good behavior.

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Preparing the new school year

Tips for preparing and organizing the new school year
 
Are you ready for the new school year? We leave some suggestions to facilitate the day-to-day life of the whole family.
 
For many parents, the year starts in September. After the summer holidays, it's time to organize everything and prepare another full school year! Not forgetting the children that they too have to feel calm and prepared!
 
Nothing better than to take this time to spend some more time with your children and plan the new year together. Choose a time and, calmly, talk about what went well and less well in the previous year, establish new routines and prepare the action plan to start another year full of energy.
 
If it is the first year, it is the right time to talk a little about the new challenges and responsibilities.
 
Children should be an integral and active part in preparing and making decisions on issues that directly concern them. If you help and feel integrated in the planning of the new school year everything will be easier, motivating and fun!
 
The secret is in planning!
 
1. Prepare the space
Take this opportunity to clean up the room and study corner. Separate and arrange toys, books and other objects that are not used and should leave the room. Keep them elsewhere or give them to children who may be of help. Teach your child to keep the room clean and tidy.
The study space must be beautiful and peaceful. The human being is very visual and especially children. If the space is quiet, simple and comfortable, they will predictably achieve greater and better concentration and thus achieve good results.
 
2. Check the clothes. Children grow up so fast that most of the clothes from the previous year are no longer fit. Take the opportunity to check the condition of the clothes and make small arrangements. So, when you need the parts, everything is ready. The clothes must be separated and put away. Prepare a list of what you will need to buy for the new season. Don't forget the equipment for extracurricular activities!
 
3. School supplies.
Select and organize what is still in use for the new school year and make a list of what you will need to buy. Do not forget that at the beginning of the classes, the teachers deliver a list with the necessary material for the year that begins. Plan to go shopping with your child. Children have their own taste and preferences and involving them in the choices is an excellent strategy to prepare them for the new school year.
 
4. New activities
If you are considering enrolling in new extracurricular activities, talk to your child, interpret their wishes and decide the activities together. Please note that, in addition to classes and extracurricular activities, having free time to play every day is essential for the harmonious development of children.
 
5. Helping children to study
The ideal is to start the year to build the foundations of the future, so it is always necessary to prevent the study from happening only on the eve of exams or tests. If you dedicate half an hour of your day to studying with your child, you are creating a routine that is easier to maintain throughout the year and that will serve as a launching pad for individual study. Ask questions, correct TPC.
 
6. Free day
Children spend most of the day at school or at the ATL, doing work or other activities in the curriculum, and often do not enjoy the weekend as it is necessary to do the TPC, group work or tests. So the ideal is to have one day a week, if it adapts to your family routines where the child can do “whatever he wants”.
Motivated and happy child = the most productive child.
 
7. Play games
“Studying is a drought”: that's what most people say reaching a certain age. Demystify this idea, creating games with the material that comes out in the tests. The limit is the parents' creativity and availability.
 
8. Organization and breaks
It is important to organize the study schedule, based on the tastes of each child, avoiding bringing together all the subjects he likes least, so as not to make the moment boring.
Every 45 minutes, allow your child to snack, stretch their legs, talk for a while or even play. The breaks should not be too long, but they are essential for concentration and focus, and also for maintaining a good mood.
 
9. Memorization by writing
We are increasingly consumed by technology, tablets, laptops, mobile phones and computers, but nothing better than handwriting to understand the subjects and gain knowledge. Writing, solving exercises, summarizing, creating problems and looking for solutions. Handwriting is the basis of any knowledge acquisition process. It is the natural writing par excellence and the one that, according to studies, impels our brain to work like a sponge.
 
10. When you have the opening hours

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Free Manuals from 1st to 12th year

MEGA - Free School Manuals: how to register and use
 
To receive school textbooks free of charge, parents must register on the electronic platform MEGA - Free School Manuals
 
From the next academic year (2019-2020), all students who attend compulsory education, from the 1st to the 12th year, in public or private education with an association contract, will be entitled to free school textbooks . Thus, all parents and guardians who have children in these conditions must register on the MEGA platform. Registration is free.
 
Those who do not have access to the Internet should go to the school where their student is enrolled and deal with the whole process there.
 
How is the platform accessed?
 
The MEGA platform is accessible in two ways: through the website https://manuaisescolares.pt/ or through the Edu Rede Escolar app.
 
When and how do I register?
 
Registration on the MEGA platform has been active since July 9, in the parent's area, indicating the name, e-mail and password. After registration, the parent's account login page is displayed. Here, the credentials referred to in the registration must be entered: e-mail and password. In the next step, it is necessary to read and accept the terms of use of the platform, which state that the assigned manuals must be delivered to the school, in good condition, at the end of the academic year for which they are intended. This is followed by the validation of the Tax Identification Number (TIN), through login, in the Finance Portal, to ensure that it corresponds effectively to that of the guardian.
 
What should you do if you are already registered?
 
Registered guardians should consult their account on the MEGA platform. To do this, in the parent's area, they have to click on “Access” and then, on the login page, enter their e-mail and password. Those who do not remember the password, can request a new password to be sent, using the "Recover password" feature.
 
How are school textbooks assigned?
 
School textbooks are assigned through a voucher system. As of July, vouchers (one for each manual) are made available in the account of each parent, which must then be exchanged for school manuals at any participating stationery, if new manuals are assigned, or at the student's school, if used manuals are assigned.
 
What about activity books and worksheets?
 
The free program and reuse of school textbooks does not include activity books and worksheets, nor the other components of the so-called pedagogical packs.
 
What are the participating bookstores?
 
On the website https://manuaisescolares.pt/ you can find out which bookstores are adhering to the MEGA platform, including online bookstores. Just click on “Adherent Bookstores” at the top of the homepage, and search for a location or directly by the name of the bookstore. There is also the possibility to interact with a map.
 
How to know which manuals are adopted by schools?
 
The list of manuals chosen by schools is available on the MEGA platform.
https://manuaisescolares.pt/

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Campaign for Raising Prams and Toys

Together we can support hundreds of families and children. As? Too easy. No longer use the baby or child seat in your vehicle? Do you have toys that you can donate?
 
Help us to help!
 
Delivered at any of our stations until December 15th.
 
The toys and chairs raised will be delivered to the Association for Family Planning and the Sol Association.
 
Both associations will distribute to families and children most in need.
 
Family Planning Association
 
 Associação Sol
 
 
CAEL stations for the collection of donated goods:
 
LISBOA
 
Lisboa Aeroporto - Prior Velho
Rua 25 de Abril
Lote 2-A
2685-332 Prior Velho
 
Lisboa Braamcamp
Rua Braamcamp, nº 52 A
1250-051 Lisboa
 
Garagem Campolide
Rua de Campolide, nº 181
1070-029 Campolide
 
PORTO
 
Porto Aeroporto
Avª Arqº Fernando Távora, nº 2021
4470-628 Maia
 
ALGARVE
 
Faro Aeroporto
Estrada do Aeroporto, EN125-10
Vale das Almas - Montenegro
8005-143 Faro

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