Avoid Cross-contamination With Food Safety Education Month
Every year, approximately 1 in 6 Americans contract food poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These illnesses may lead to serious consequences for your health, including hospitalization and even death.
National Food Safety Education Month occurs every September to help curb the frequency of food illnesses. This campaign aims to help you and your family understand the dangers of handling food unsafely, such as by cross-contamination.
To limit the likelihood of germs spreading from products like raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs to ready-to-eat foods like fruits and vegetables, consider the following steps:
- Establish and maintain a specific location for the aforementioned foods in your refrigerator.
- Separate poultry, meat, seafood and eggs from other products in your shopping cart.
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Don’t use the same cutting board for raw meat, poultry and seafood as you do for fruits, vegetables and other uncooked foods.
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Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after handling raw food products.
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Clean utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot water and soap after preparing raw eggs, seafood or meat.
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When working with a marinade or sauce that has been in contact with raw meat, bring it to a boil before reuse.
For additional health and safety guidance, contact Ramsburg Insurance Agency today.
Tips for Fall Home Maintenance
As fall approaches, the lower temperatures and shorter days may necessitate various maintenance and upkeep for your home. Fortunately, the moderate weather conditions of this part of the year may also provide ample opportunity to work outdoors and prepare your property for the harsher winter months.
Get a headstart on your home maintenance by considering the following steps:
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Check your roof—Inspect your roof for any cracks, leaks or other signs of damage. Hiring a qualified professional may be advisable.
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Inspect your furnace—Ahead of cold winter temperatures, you should ensure that your furnace is in good working order. Consider replacing filters as needed.
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Clear gutters—Remove leaves and other debris from your gutters and downspouts to minimize flooding or freezing following precipitation.
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Replace screens—Use this time to replace screens that may have been installed for summer with storm windows capable of withstanding winter elements.
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Seal cracks—Inspect walls and areas around windows and doors to identify and repair any holes or cracks that may allow cold air into your home.
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Remove outdoor water sources—Drain any outdoor faucets on your property and put away hoses to prevent remaining water from freezing during the winter.
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Repair pavement—If you have walkways, a driveway or other pavement on your property, check for any cracks and fix them before winter. Otherwise, freezing water may expand them, leading to larger problems.
Contact Ramsburg Insurance Agency today for additional home safety resources.
How to Drive Safely in Severe Weather
Fall often brings unpredictable weather conditions. Many parts of the United States are at risk of hurricanes, tropical storms, blizzards and other dangerous forecasts. Although it’s advisable to simply avoid being on the road amid inclement conditions, there may be times when you have no choice.
To keep yourself as safe as possible while driving in dangerous weather, consider the following tips
- Check the forecast before embarking on any journeys, including predictions regarding conditions during your return.
- Make sure to use your headlights, wipers and defroster when appropriate, such as during rain and thunderstorms.
- Clear your vehicle thoroughly of any ice and snow before getting on the road.
- Drive defensively, including reducing speeds and increasing following distance.
For more auto safety tips, contact us today.