Stay Safe and Healthy This Fall!

Crisp air, crunchy leaves, and pumpkin-spice everything - fall is officially here!

"While you're making plans for fall fun, don't forget to prioritize your health, wellness, and safety," said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director for the Ohio Department of Health. "Carve out some time to consider simple steps you can take to stay safe and healthy as the leaves fall this year."

Here's a quick list to get you started.

Staying Healthy

• Drink plenty of water. Whether you think pumpkin spice or apple crisp is the superior fall flavor, water is the star of every season.
• Eat balanced meals and enjoy treats in moderation. Try making a new healthy recipe or sweet treat.
• Try some fresh fall veggies. Check out your local market for in-season produce like squash, cauliflower, or turnip greens.
• Learn how to make your favorite coffee or tea at home. Making your own can help cut down on sugar and additives, plus it could save you a couple of bucks!
• Stay active! Visit one of Ohio's state parks for a fall hike or take a lap around the neighborhood to crunch on leaves.

Seasonal Checks

• Check your smoke alarm batteries. Monthly checks and seasonal replacement are always important, but we emphasize checking the batteries before you start using space heaters and candles in the chilly months ahead.
• Get your flu shot. Encourage your friends to get theirs too! Attached to this webpage, our printable "Boo-to-the-Flu" card is a fun way to remind your friends to get vaccinated.
• Check in on yourself and your friends. As the days get shorter, seasonal affective disorder may begin for some people, check in and reach out to a healthcare provider if you need support. You can also find resources at the Learn and Find Help webpage at the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services.
• Use eye and ear protection when you're using a leaf blower. Leaf blowers are LOUD and can send more than leaves flying. Protect your eyes from injury and your ears from exposure to loud noise.
• Prevent falls. Use caution while climbing ladders to clean your gutters, always wear appropriate shoes, and beware of trip hazards if you are using extension cords for yard decorations - do what you can to prevent injury.
• Update your car emergency kit. As temperatures drop, be sure to store a blanket, ice scraper, and cat litter or sand (for traction) in your vehicle.

Halloween and Trick-or-Treating

• Try painting your pumpkins. This is a safe alternative to carving and it's a lot of fun at any age!
• Wear reflective tape while trick-or-treating and follow pedestrian laws to reduce the risk of injury while you're out collecting candy.
• Be mindful of allergies. Consider adding allergy-safe candy and small trinkets (BEWARE of choking hazards!) to your trick-or-treat bowl. Check out the Teal Pumpkin Project from foodallergy.org for ideas on non-food treats and allergy-friendly candyStay home if you or your kids aren't feeling well. Stop the spread of germs by staying away from others when you are sick.

Whether your fall season revolves around football, spooky sightings, or pumpkin spice, be sure to take care of yourself!