Caldwell County Health Department offers summer-safety and food-handling tips

Brie Flanagan, a public health educator at the Caldwell County Health Department, advised residents on summer safety: "check for ticks after going out into nature," wear sunscreen and stay hydrated to reduce heat-related illness.

Flanagan also urged caution around natural swimming sites: cover wounds or cuts before entering open water to reduce the risk of infection. On food safety at outdoor gatherings, she recommended refrigerating perishable items such as potato salad and coleslaw and said, "Normally, you don't want to leave food out for more than 2 hours" — and less time if items are in direct heat. She added that perishable foods should be kept on ice or in a cooler to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness.

The department encouraged listeners with questions about summer safety, tick-borne disease prevention, or food-safety best practices to contact the Caldwell County Health Department for guidance.