Press Release
Summer is now in full swing and the Northwestern Health Unit is encouraging all residents and visitors to get out from behind the screens and spend time getting active and exploring the great outdoors.
Grab a friend, family member, or pet and try out a local trail on foot or by bike, head for a paddle on a nearby waterway, or check out an active event in your community.
“By keeping a few simple messages in mind, you can stay safe while building active memories to last a lifetime,” said Dr. Kit Young-Hoon, medical officer of health for the Northwestern Health Unit.
“The majority of injuries and harmful incidents that occur in our region can be prevented by planning ahead and being prepared,” she noted.
Consider the following to protect the health and safety of yourself and those around you:
•Stay afloat
Wear a properly-fitting lifejacket during activities like fishing, boating, or paddling.
Children should wear a lifejacket when on a dock or around water.
•Protect your head
Always wear a properly-fitted helmet when biking or operating an all-terrain vehicle.
•Drink responsibly
If you choose to drink, follow Canada’s Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines to minimize your risk of injury and chronic disease.
•Be sun safe
Slip on a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing that covers as much skin as possible, slop on a broad-spectrum sunscreen and lip balm of SFP 30 or higher, and seek shade whenever possible.
Use extra caution to prevent heat-related illness in periods of extreme heat and stay tuned to local media for extreme heat warnings.
For more information on any of the above topics, visit www.nwhu.on.ca or contact your local health unit office.
You also can follow us on Facebook for regular updates on our programs, services, and events happening in your community.
Fill your summer with safe and healthy fun.
One thing, many rewards. “Do One Thing.”
