LHIN FBF Handouts 2013...8 Tips for a Healthier Family Holiday The best way to prepare for the holiday season is to reduce your chances of getting sick or injured. Here are some simple

8 Tips for a Healthier Family HolidayThe best way to prepare for the holiday season is to

reduce your chances of getting sick or injured. Here are some simple steps you can take to help your family stay healthy over the holidays.

1. Get the flu shot together. Reduce your chances of getting the flu, help keep it from spreading, and protect vulnerable loved ones, young and old. Everyone over 6 months old can get the shot.

2. Everyone wash their hands! Washing your hands correctly (or using an alcohol-based hand rub) helps protect you from diseases and helps prevent you from spreading diseases to others.

3. Handle food safely. Keep raw meat, poultry and seafood separate. Always clean any surface they touch and your hands after handling them. Cook food to at least 165 degrees Celsius to kill bacteria, and be sure to refrigerate leftovers within two hours.

4. Keep an eye on the little ones during celebrations. Keep small snacks (nuts, candy, etc.) out of the reach of children under three to prevent choking. Clean up right after parties and events, so the little ones don’t get into anything they shouldn’t.

5. Make sure toys and decorations are safe. Toys for children under three should be large enough that theycan’t pass through a toilet paper tube. Avoid long strings or cords, or small parts that can break off and be swallowed. Throw away packing materials and use new batteries.

6. Be careful with flames. Keep candles out of children’s reach and away from the tree or other evergreens and wrapping and other decorations. Extinguish all flames before you go bed at night.

7. Lower your stress levels. Doing (and spending) too much can leave us tired and stressed. Don’t overcommitand schedule in quiet times. Try to get enough sleep. Overspending is a big stressor, so have your budget and stick to it. Happy holidays are the best holidays.

8. Know where to find care. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. For non-emergency medical carevisit FeelBetterFaster.ca to learn the care options available in your area this holiday season. Fill in the form on the reverse of this page and put it where you can see it.

Have a safe and healthy holiday season!

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Know Your Health Care OptionsFill out the chart below and keep it handy over the holiday season.

See reverse for more helpful healthcare tips for the holiday season.

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