Did You Know? Dealing with the Heat

To avoid heat-related illnesses, you should:

ñ Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water and avoid caffeine and alcohol

ñ Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors

ñ Avoid direct exposure to the sun and seek shade and shelter at the first signs of heat exposure

ñ Wear lightweight and loose clothing

ñ Spend at least two hours a day in an air-conditioned location, including shopping malls, local libraries or neighbourhood community centres

ñ Never leave children, the elderly or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows partly rolled down

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?: Animal Bites

Most common bite in Ottawa is an insect bite. The biggest concern with these is an allergic reaction. Most people are allergic to mosquitoes hence we get all itchy when we are bitten. Mosquitoes are also a concern for spreading the West Nile virus. Some people have severe allergic reactions to bees and/or wasp stings. The most important treatment is to prevent the sting from happening.

The next most common bite is from wild animals. Here the biggest concern is severe bleeding followed by rabies. Rabies is a disease that is spread from mammal. The most common carrier is the raccoon. Never feed wild animals. If you are bitten seek medical treatment immediately and report this to your local Health Department.

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.