Canton, NY — The St. Lawrence County Public Health Department (SLCPHD) is encouraging residents and visitors to take precautions to stay safe and healthy during this summer season.
As families gather for cookouts, camping trips, boating, and other outdoor recreation, SLCPHD reminds the public to be aware of heat-related illness, food, and water safety.
According to the New York State Department of Health, extreme heat can become dangerous quickly, especially for older adults, infants and young children, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and people with chronic medical conditions. Drink plenty of water, avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, and take breaks in cool or shaded areas when spending time outdoors. Residents should also avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn and dehydration.
SLCPHD reminds residents to never leave children, pets, or vulnerable individuals unattended in vehicles. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly within minutes, even when outdoor temperatures seem mild. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness, and heavy sweating. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and may cause confusion, loss of consciousness, rapid pulse, or high body temperature. Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat stroke should seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.
As outdoor cooking and picnics become more common over the holiday weekend, SLCPHD is also emphasizing food safety practices to help prevent foodborne illness.
- Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot.
- Store perishable foods in coolers or refrigerators.
- Wash hands frequently when preparing food.
- Use separate plates and utensils for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods.
- Marinate foods in the refrigerator, not on countertops.
- Keep food covered to protect against insects and contamination.
- Do not prepare food if you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea symptoms.
Residents enjoying lakes, rivers, and pools this weekend are reminded to practice water safety by supervising children at all times and wearing life jackets while boating, kayaking, canoeing, or fishing. Early-season water temperatures may still be dangerously cold and can increase the risk of hypothermia and cold-water shock.
SLCPHD encourages residents to stay informed about weather conditions and heat advisories throughout the weekend and wishes everyone a safe and healthy summer season.
For more information on heat safety and food safety, visit the New York State Department of Health.