Summer might be officially over, but the vacation season is still in full swing. The changing colours of the Autumn landscape only make Canada’s best-loved vacation destinations even more appealing. The latest reports by Accuweather suggest the warm weather will be lingering a little while longer yet. So, whether you’re planning a mini-break or an extended vacation, we’ve compiled some tips to keep you and your family safe and healthy.
Stay safe on the roads
This week is Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week. Every year in Canada, about 10,000 children (from infants to 12-year olds) are hurt or killed on the roads. So, if you’re planning a road trip this weekend, make sure your children are buckled-up at all times. And remember, the back seat is always the safest place.
Get prepared
Whilst the continuing warm weather is an unexpected bonus for most of us, it will also extend the already active wildfire season. Whether you’re camping or renting a cabin in the heart of a national park, you need to get prepared and stay alert. On arrival at your destination, make an evacuation plan with your family and ensure you have an emergency kit ready and accessible. It should be small enough to fit in a backpack. Don’t wait until a disaster strikes to get your kit together!
Wasp avoidance
In early fall when food supplies are lower, wasps become more aggressive. Here are a few tips to help prevent stings:
- In park areas or the countryside, wear shoes to avoid stepping on them.
- Avoid eating and drinking outdoors where possible, especially sweet items.
- If you are drinking, use a cup. (Wasps can crawl under the mouth of a bottle or can and remain unseen).
- If you are being pursued by a wasp, get away by walking quickly in a straight line. Do not weave, or wave your arms around.
If you are stung, apply a cold compress. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen will soothe any pain. Antihistamine tablets will reduce any localized swelling. Call for an ambulance immediately if any of the following occur:
- difficulty breathing
- wheezing
- vomiting
- nausea or diarrhoea
- feeling faint or dizzy
- swollen face or mouth
- problems swallowing
Keep allergies at bay
Although hay fever is commonly associated with the spring and summer months, ragweed pollen can cause huge problems for allergy sufferers between August and October . If you’re one of them, take all of your usual precautions and take your medication with you everywhere!
Fend off the flu
Influenza season is just around the corner, so before you leave, get your flu shot sorted. Ontario’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP) offers the influenza vaccine free of charge each year to anyone living in, working in or going to school in Ontario.
Pedal power
In 2013/2014, an estimated 12 million Canadians (41%) aged 12 or older reported that they had cycled in the previous year. An increasing emphasis on the health benefits of cycling means that more and more of us are taking up the pastime. If you’re considering taking to the saddle during your autumn vacation, make sure you wear a helmet at all times. Visit the Canada Safety Council for more safety advice.
If you need any further advice on autumn vacation healthcare, call in at the Rexall Pharmacy. Our pharmacists are always happy to help with the best treatments for stings and seasonal allergies and they can book you in for your free flu jab at the same time! Find us on the Main Floor, 230 Victoria Street or call us at 519 873 1700.