Brantford, ON. – With many people travelling or spending time outdoors this Civic Holiday long weekend, Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is reminding everyone to make safety part of their plans. Whether you're on the road, at the cottage, camping, enjoying the water or gathering with family and friends, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries and keep everyone safe.
GEPH encourages community members to:
- Plan ahead if alcohol or cannabis is part of your weekend. Arrange a designated driver, taxi or rideshare before you head out.
- Know your limits. Alternate alcohol with water, eat before and while drinking, and always be sure to keep an eye on your drink.
- Never drive, boat or operate any recreational vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating or participating in water activities and supervise children closely around water.
- Protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), seeking shade and staying hydrated, especially during periods of hot weather.
- Keep food safe by washing your hands, preventing cross-contamination and keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold when cooking outdoors.
Residents can find information and tips on staying safe this long weekend by visiting:
GEPH offices will be closed on Monday, August 3, for the Civic Holiday and will reopen on Tuesday, August 4, during regular business hours.
Emergency on-call services will remain available for urgent public health matters. In case of a public health emergency, please call 519-753-4937 (Brantford–Brant) or 519-900-9600 (Haldimand–Norfolk.)
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Grand Erie Public Health
As one of Ontario’s public health units, we are determined defenders of community health. Our public health focus on prevention, protection, and promotion contributes to healthier outcomes across Brantford, Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk.
We are unshakeable in our commitment to being a trusted and authentic source of public health knowledge, guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards. We safeguard the well-being of everyone – no matter who they are or where they come from.