We are into the final stages of 2017, and with that, cooler weather and shorter days. The following are some general health and safety tips going into Autumn.

1) Of course, the one that you can mark your calendar by - get your flu shot. Stay healthy this Fall!

a) Avoid being around sick people if possible.
b) Wash your hands frequently.
c) Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

2) While it can be a lot of fun, as parents there are many dangers associated with Halloween. Take necessary precautions to make sure your children are safe - including making sure your children are wearing costumes/outfits that can be seen in the dark. Reflective tapes, bright colors.

a) Also be sure to read the labels on makeup to make sure that the materials are safe for them.
b) Assign a parent or responsible adult to accompany young children!
c) Agree on a specific time when children should return home.
d) Instruct children to only go to homes with a porch light on, and NEVER enter a home or car for a treat.

3) It’s getting darker earlier, and you’re still driving - so make sure you are driving safely!

When does the clock change? The first Sunday in November. Compromised vision at night, along with the body’s fatigue of a shorter day, you need to take extra care as you drive. Be sure that you are getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night, and never drive if you’ve been awake over 24 hours straight.

Additional dark driving tips:
a) Get your headlights cleaned and aimed correctly!
b) Dim the lights on your dashboard at night.
c) Clean your windshield to eliminate streaks.
d) Slow down!