Posted on December 23, 2015 at 9:07 AM by Victoria Mulherin
Holiday Health and Safety Tips!
The holidays are a great opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends, celebrate life, to be grateful, and reflect on what’s important. They are also a time to appreciate the gift of health. Here are some holiday tips to support your efforts for health and safety this season.
• Wash your hands often – To avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others
• Stay warm – Cold temperatures can cause serious health problems, especially in infants and older adults. Stay dry, and dress warmly in several layers.
• Manage stress – Keep your commitments and spending in check. Balance work, home, and play. Keep a relaxed and positive outlook. Make sure to get proper sleep.
• Travel safely – Don’t drink and drive, and don’t let someone else drink and drive. Wear a seat belt every time you drive or ride in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your child in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt appropriate for his/her height, weight, and age.
• Get check-ups and vaccinations – Exams and screenings can help find potential problems early, when the chances for treatment and cure are often better. Vaccinations help prevent diseases and save lives.
• Keep a watchful eye on the kids – Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, choking hazards (like coins and hard candy), and other objects out of kids' reach.
• Handle and prepare food safely – Wash hands and surfaces often. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs (including their juices) away from ready-to-eat foods and eating surfaces. Cook foods to the proper temperature. Refrigerate promptly. Do not leave perishable foods out for more than two hours.
• Stay active – Choose With balance and moderation, you can enjoy the holidays the healthy way. Choose fresh fruit as a festive and sweet substitute for candy. Limit fats, salt, and sugary foods. Find fun ways to stay active, such as dancing to your favorite holiday music. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week.