June 2023

Greetings from the Wellesley Health Department! In this issue...

While it may not feel like it yet, Summer weather is right around the corner. Make the best of it by being sun safe! In this Newsflash we provide some great info on sun safety.

Did you know CPR is incredibly easy to learn and even easier to do? Check out our resources on “hands only” CPR, and how you can become certified. You could save someone’s life!

As always, please reach out to us with questions or suggestions for how we can better serve you by emailing us at health@wellesleyma.gov. We love to hear from you!

Don't forget to subscribe to receive future Newsflashes if you haven't already: https://www.wellesleyma.gov/list.aspx (be sure to scroll all the way down).

June 1-7 was CPR/AED awareness week!

Visit the American Heart Association website to learn how easy it is to perform "hands only" CPR and use an AED. You could save a life!

CPR can be delivered two ways: either WITH or WITHOUT rescue breathing. Bystander CPR is delivered WITHOUT rescue breathing and is very easy to learn. Most people can get certified in under two hours! And, most bystander CPR classes include AED training. Using an AED is very easy and even children can learn how. Chances are, you have an AED located somewhere in your workplace or at a venue where your child plays sports. When CPR and an AED are used on someone in cardiac arrest before emergency help arrives, it greatly increases the chance for survival.

WHERE TO GET CERTIFIED

Getting CPR certified is easier than ever, and can even be done virtually!

Red Cross (Includes online only option)

American Heart Association

First Aid For Free (Includes online only option)

Link to find free CPR classes

Sun Safety

As we head into the warmer weather, our exposure to UV (Ultraviolet) rays increases. Since UV rays are the main cause of skin cancers, reducing exposure is key to preventing skin cancer year-round, but in summer becomes even more important. Limiting sun exposure to the morning and afternoon hours, using sunscreen every day (even cloudy days) with at least an SPF30, and keeping your skin covered when outside are the main ways to avoid harsh UV rays. Read more here about how to protect yourself.

Air Quality and Your Health

Although the risk for poor air quality has decreased significantly, Massachusetts may still see some air quality issues throughout the summer. The air should be fine for most people, however sensitive groups may experience minor to moderate symptoms even with fair or good air quality. You can get more information and updates about air quality HERE. Those with health issues can check daily to assess air quality and risk. The Health Department has n95 masks available by the rear entrance of the Warren Building, 90 Washington Street.

Health Department and Fire Department Host Fire Safety Event

On June 13th, residents learned fire safety basics including the always popular fire extinguisher training. This training session is open to anyone ages 16+ and includes the opportunity to use the extinguisher and put out a real fire. Read more....

988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE IS NOW AVAILABLE

988 is a direct three-digit phone line to trained National Suicide Prevention Lifeline call takers. You can call or text 988 anytime, anywhere you or a loved one is in emotional distress or having suicidal thoughts. Trained call takers, who are not licensed clinicians, are available to provide free, confidential emotional support to all callers. You do not need to be suicidal to call 988. Click here to learn wat you can expect when you call or text 988, and for more information and resources.

Health Department Calendar

Keep Well Clinics. The Health Department offers weekly Keep Well sessions for residents. Get your blood pressure checked and have your health questions answered.
- Visit this link for the schedule for April-June 2023.

Stay Up to Date With The Health Department!

Contact us: health@wellesleyma.gov, or call 781-235-0135

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wellesleyhealth

Twitter: @wellesleyhealth

Website: https://wellesleyma.gov/193/Health

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