Have a Healthy and Safe 4th of July!

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Apple pie, fireworks, sunshine and barbeque's - 4th of July is all about family, friends and food. Here are a few tips to stay healthy and safe during the holiday!

Wear Sunscreen. Beach, hike, travel to the mountains - whatever your plans for the extended weekend are, make sure you are protected from the sun. Excessive sun exposure could cause sunburns, skin rashes, hives and blisters. Chose a broad spectrum sunscreen, one that provides protection from UVA and UVB rays and has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30.

Check the Water. What better way to beat the heat than diving into some cool water? But before you take the plunge, remember to check the clarity of the water. Blue-green algae, the slimy and smelly greenish film that coats the surface of most lakes or pools, could be a breeding ground for toxic bacteria such as cyanobacteria. The toxins released from the bacteria can cause a sore throat, wheezing, irritation of the eyes, chest tightness and shortness of breath.

Bring your Earplugs. Experts say that you should protect your ears against any sound above 85 decibels. The noise produced by fireworks produces a sound of 150 decibels, which could damage the hair cells and nerve endings in the inner ear. Use good quality earplugs that not only cut the noise, but also prevent hearing damage.

Hydrate if Consuming Alcohol. Make sure to alternate every alcoholic beverage with water. This helps prevent dehydration caused by alcohol consumption.

Follow the 70/70 Rule. The American Heart Association says that when the humidity and temperature are both above 70, you increase your risk of getting dehydrated. Carry a water bottle and sip frequently before, during and after any activity you participate in.

Watch What you Eat. While a picnic barbeque is an excellent outdoor opportunity to have fun with friends and family, the summer heat could make the food-borne bacteria thrive and multiply quickly. Here are some tips to protect food from getting spoilt:
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  • Preserve cold food items such as sausages and salami in a cooler with frozen gel packs or ice to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Limit the number of times the cooler is opened to prevent the food being exposed.
  • Rinse veggies and fresh fruits under running tap water before packing them.
  • Once food is served, do not let it sit out in the open for more than two hours (or one hour if the outdoor temperature is above 90F)
  • Discard any leftovers

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