Work & Family Benefits, Inc. Values Package ®
Monthly Bulletin
June 2005

Planning a summer vacation? Some words to the wise…

Many individuals, traveling companions, and families eagerly await their summer vacations. These breaks are often ideal for unwinding, exploring, and re-connecting with loved ones (while disconnecting from your cell-phone!). Here are some tips to help make your vacation fun and safe…

•  Be cautious about sun exposure. Get protection from the sun with sunscreen, proper clothing, and plenty of hydration.

•  Adhere to strict safety rules in and near water. Whether you're headed to the beach, or the neighbor's backyard pool, consider the depth, tide, and other conditions where you are swimming. Try not to go swimming without someone nearby “just in case”, and never let children go near water unattended.

•  Going on a picnic? Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Use a cooler for cold foods, and don't eat hot foods if they've been exposed to high outdoor temperatures for more than an hour or so.

•  Prevent insect stings and bites by wearing shoes, protective clothing, and using insect repellant. If you or a family member has allergies, carry medication in case of a reaction. Also avoid tick bites by wearing long sleeves and pants tucked into boots when in grassy or wooded areas.

•  Watch out for poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac! Learn which plants are “friends” and which are “foe” before venturing into the woods.

•  Always keep water nearby when traveling. If you get lost on foot, or your car breaks down on a particularly hot day – water can save lives!

•  Never leave children or pets in a car in hot weather. Even with windows open, temperatures can climb quickly and dangerously.

•  Watch or listen to the weather report. Beware of electrical storms, flooding or any other advisories issued for your destination.

At Work & Family Benefits, Inc. we wish you much fun – with safety in mind – on your vacation! And remember to call on us if we can help in any way with your family and elder care needs during vacation time or anytime ! We can always be reached at 1-800-328-4071 or online at www.wfbenefits.com .