Did You Know?: Food Allergies and School

Food allergies have skyrocketed over the last decade. With so many more children having allergies to more and more foods school classrooms are becoming dangerous places. If you are a parent and your child brings home a letter saying that a certain food is not allowed in the classroom due to allergies it is not the end of the world.

Many recipes can be easily modified so that they do not contain common allergens like nuts, eggs, gluten. In fact the small changes you make can be turned into a learning opportunity for your child.

Whether you are a parent of a child with allergies or a parent who wants to keep their child’s classroom a safe place the Ottawa Anaphalaxis Support Group’s website www.ottawaasg.com provides a wealth of recipes and information of allergies.

As an Authorized Training Provider of the Canadian Red Cross, all First Aid Ottawa Standard and Emergency First Aid courses are recognized by WSIB and its Federal counterpart the Canada Labour code.  Visit us online at www.FirstAidOttawa.com or at 613-225-2727.

Did You Know? Escaping Summer Heat

The Canadian Red Cross has the following tips to help individuals stay cool:

    * Avoid being outdoors in the hottest part of the day.  If you must go out, try going out in the early morning or later evening hours when the sun is not as strong.

    * Work and exercise in brief periods.

    * Take frequent breaks.

    * Dress in light, loose clothing. Wear a hat.

    * Drink plenty of cool fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.

                             

Many groups are vulnerable to the heat, particularly, the elderly, young children, and those who work, exercise and live outdoors. A few hours in the warm temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. For those who do not have air conditioning, the Red Cross recommends going to a local shopping mall or library to take a break from the heat.

With the temperatures rising, many families will head to pools and local beaches to cool off. The Red Cross is also reminding parents to supervise their children at all times, and have an action plan in case there is an emergency.

As an Authorized Training Provider of the Canadian Red Cross, all First Aid Ottawa Standard and Emergency First Aid courses are recognized by WSIB and its Federal counterpart the Canada Labour code.  Visit us online at www.FirstAidOttawa.com or at 613-225-2727.