Tuesday, April 08, 2008 DOH issues precautions with onset of summer
THE Department of Health (DOH) has issued a list of precautions for people this summer, so they can avoid cases of food poisoning, diarrhea, heat-associated ailments and recreation-related injuries.
The health agency is reminding them not to stay under the sun for more than three hours to avoid risks of sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
If a person wants a tan, he must drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
The DOH advisory also urges adults not to allow children to go swimming unaccompanied.
The advisory is not just limited to tips for beach trips. It also covers preparation of food and drinks.
Foods must be eaten immediately after being cooked properly, and leftovers should be refrigerated and reheated before eating, are some of its advice.
DOH also asks food handlers to wash their hands before and after preparation and should not be preparing food for others when sick.
Other precautions include avoiding drinking water and iced beverages of doubtful quality, boiling drinking water for at least two minutes if water quality is doubtful, peeling and washing fruits or vegetables before eating, and washing hands before and after eating.
The health agency also asks families to check their vehicles before going on a trip and bring with them a repair kit.
When drunk, persons should not attempt to drive nor watch over a child who wants to go swimming. (NRC)
