Lower Your Risk of Falling

False 10 English 17 Lower Your Risk of Falling Safety Safety, Older Adults 4/25/2013 4:01:18 PM http://www.healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/glmedia/icons/loweryourriskoffalling.jpg older woman exercising http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/everyday-healthy-living/safety/lower-your-risk-of-falling Stay Active As You Get Older: Quick tips http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/health-conditions-and-diseases/obesity/stay-active-as-you-get-older-quick-tips tool Get a Bone Density Test http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/screening-tests/get-a-bone-density-test topic Get Your Vision Checked http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/screening-tests/get-your-vision-checked topic Preventing Falls: Conversation starters http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Population/older-adults/safety/preventing-falls-conversation-starters tool Preventing Osteoporosis: Questions for the doctor http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/talking-with-the-doctor/preventing-osteoporosis-questions-for-the-doctor tool Calcium: Shopping list http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/nutrition-and-physical-activity/nutrition/calcium-shopping-list tool

The Basics Your risk for a fall increases as you get older. You can make small changes to help prevent falls. You can make small changes to help prevent falls. More than 1 in 3 older adults will fall each year. Falling can lead to broken bones, trouble getting around, and other health problems, especially if you are over age 64.A fracture (broken bone) can cause pain and disability. It can also make it hard to do everyday activities, like cooking a meal, without help. Hip fractures are a major cause of health problems and death among older adults.You don’t have to be afraid of falling. Take these steps to prevent falls:<ul ><li>Exercise to improve your balance and leg strength.</li><li>Ask your doctor to review your medicines. Some medicines can make you dizzy or sleepy.</li><li>Have your vision checked at least every 1 to 2 years. Update your glasses or contact lenses when your vision changes.</li><li>Make your home safer by fixing possible dangers. For example, add stair railings and move cords you could trip over.</li></ul>Am I at risk? As people age, poor balance and weak muscles can lead to falls and fractures. Older adults usually fall during everyday activities, like walking or turning.Some older adults also have vision problems or other medical conditions that can make a fall more likely. For example, a stroke can affect your balance and make you more likely to fall.You may be more likely to fall if you:<ul ><li>Have fallen in the past year</li><li>Have a health condition that makes it hard to walk or affects your balance, like diabetes or heart disease</li><li>Have trouble getting up from a chair or stepping up onto a curb</li><li>Take medicines to help you relax or sleep</li></ul>If you are worried about falling, talk to your doctor or nurse about how balance exercises, physical therapy, and vitamin D supplements can help.<a href="http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/falls-and-fractures" >Get the facts on falls and fractures</a>.

Take Action! Do strengthening activities at least 2 days a week. Many falls can be prevented. Follow these steps to lower your risk of falling.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=22">Get active</a>. Stay active to feel better, improve your balance, and make your legs stronger.<ul ><li><a href="http://go4life.nia.nih.gov/resources/workout-to-go" >Check out this free workout guide for older adults</a>.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=4">Get other tips on staying active as you get older</a>.</li></ul>Improve your balance. Exercises that improve your balance can help prevent falls. For example, tai chi (“ty chee”) is a Chinese mind-body exercise that involves moving slowly and gently.<ul ><li>Check with your local senior or community center for exercise classes that can help your balance.</li><li><a href="http://go4life.nia.nih.gov/try-these-exercises#balance-exercises" >Try these simple exercises to improve your balance</a>.</li></ul>Make your legs stronger. Do strengthening activities at least 2 days a week. These include lifting weights or using resistance bands (long rubber strips that stretch).<a href="http://go4life.nia.nih.gov/try-these-exercises#strength-exercises" >Try these strength exercises at home</a>.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=69">Ask your doctor about using medicines safely</a>. Some medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy and can cause you to fall. Take all of your medicines to a doctor or pharmacist. Ask the doctor or pharmacist if any of your prescription or over-the-counter medicines could increase your risk of falling.<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000254.htm" >Print this list of other questions to ask your doctor or nurse about preventing falls</a>.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicID=35">Get your vision checked</a>. Your vision changes as you get older. Poor vision or the wrong glasses can increase your chances of falling.If you are age 65 or older, have your eyes checked every 1 to 2 years. Be sure to update your glasses or contact lenses if your vision changes.Make your home safer. About half of all falls happen at home. <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/pubs/English/booklet_Eng_desktop-a.pdf" >Use this Home Falls Prevention Checklist [PDF - 7 MB]</a> to help you find and fix the dangers in your home.To help prevent falls at home:<ul ><li>Use bright lights throughout your home, especially on the stairs.</li><li>Always wear non-slip shoes, even inside your home. Don’t walk barefoot or in slippers or socks.</li><li>Have railings put on both sides of all stairs on the inside and outside of your home.</li><li>Keep stairs and places you walk clear of clutter.</li><li>Pick up things you can trip over, like papers, shoes, or books.</li><li>Remove small rugs or use double-sided tape to keep rugs from slipping.</li><li>Have grab bars put inside and outside the bathtub or shower and next to your toilet.</li><li>Use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower.</li><li>Keep kitchen items you use often in easy-to-reach cabinets.</li><li>Stand up slowly after eating, lying down, or sitting.</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=12">Get a bone density test</a>. If you are a woman age 65 or older, get a bone density test to measure how strong your bones are.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=40">Get enough calcium and vitamin D</a>. Calcium helps keep your bones strong and less likely to break. Vitamin D helps your body take in calcium. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=47">Check out this shopping list of foods high in calcium</a>.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=68">Get plenty of sleep</a>. Getting a good night’s sleep can help you make good decisions and avoid injuries.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=16">Drink alcohol only in moderation</a>. Alcohol can increase your risk of falling.Are you worried about a loved one’s risk of falling? <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=39">Use these tips to start a conversation about preventing falls</a>.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li>Pick up books, papers, and shoes from the floor and stairs.</li><li><a href="http://nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/homesafety/video/fall3_na.html?intro=yes" >Watch this short video on home safety tips</a>.</li><li>Sign up for an exercise class.</li></ul>

The Basics One of the best ways to prevent back pain is to keep your back muscles strong. One of the best ways to prevent back pain is to keep your back muscles strong. Follow these steps to help protect your back and prevent back pain:<ul ><li>Do back-strengthening and stretching exercises at least 2 or 3 times a week.</li><li>Stand and sit up straight.</li><li>Avoid heavy lifting. If you do lift something heavy, bend your knees and keep your back straight. This way, your leg muscles will do most of the work.</li><li>If you are overweight, lose weight to help lower the strain on your back.</li></ul><a href="http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Back_Pain/default.asp" >Learn more about back pain and how to prevent it</a>.There are different kinds of back pain. Back pain can feel like a dull, constant ache or a sudden, sharp pain. Back pain often gets better without any treatment. <a href="http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Back_Pain/back_pain_ff.asp#d" >Find out when to call a doctor or nurse</a>.What is the difference between acute and chronic back pain? Acute back pain lasts less than 6 weeks. It’s often caused by an accident, a fall, or lifting something too heavy. Acute back pain usually lasts from a few days to a few weeks and gets better without any treatment.Back pain that lasts for more than 3 months is called chronic back pain. Chronic back pain is much less common than acute back pain. Most chronic back pain can be treated without surgery.<a href="http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Back_Pain/back_pain_ff.asp#g" >Find out about ways to treat back pain</a>.Who gets back pain? Most people have back pain at some point in their lives. It’s one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor or nurse. People are more likely to experience back pain as they get older.Many people hurt their backs at work when they lift, push, or pull something too heavy. People may also be at risk for back pain if they:<ul ><li>Have poor posture (don’t stand and sit up straight)</li><li>Aren’t physically active</li><li>Are overweight</li><li>Fall or have an accident</li><li>Have a health problem that causes back pain (like arthritis or cancer)</li><li>Smoke</li></ul>

Take Action! Try a yoga class to help stretch and strengthen your back muscles. Take care of your back to avoid back pain. Preventing back pain is easier than treating it.Strengthen your back. There are things you can do to make your back stronger and lower your risk of back pain:<ul ><li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/backexercises/htm/index.htm" >Do back-strengthening and stretching exercises</a> at least 2 or 3 times a week.</li><li><a href="http://nccam.nih.gov/health/yoga/introduction.htm" >Try a yoga class</a>. It can help stretch and strengthen muscles and improve your posture.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=22">Stay active</a>. Regular physical activity can help keep your back muscles strong. Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate activity a week.</li></ul>If you have a health condition, your doctor can help you choose the best activities for you. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=50">Get tips on staying active with a disability</a>.Focus on good posture. Good posture can help prevent back pain.<ul ><li>Try not to slouch when standing and sitting.</li><li>Sit up straight with your back against the back of your chair and your feet flat on the floor. Keep your knees slightly higher than your hips.</li><li>Stand tall with your head up and shoulders back.</li></ul><a href="http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/positions.html" >Find out how to have good posture while sitting at a computer</a>.Lift correctly. Lift things with your legs, not your back. Keep your back straight and bend at the knees or at the hips. Get help if the load is too heavy for you to lift alone. <a href="http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/first-aid/lifting-safety-tips-to-help-prevent-back-injuries.printerview.all.html" >Get more tips on safe lifting</a>. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=25">Watch your weight</a>. If you are overweight, losing weight can reduce the strain on your back.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=40">Get enough calcium and vitamin D</a>. Calcium and vitamin D help keep your bones strong and prevent osteoporosis (“os-tee-oh-puh-ROH-sis”). If you have osteoporosis, your bones are weak and more likely to fracture (break). Spine fractures from osteoporosis are a leading cause of back pain.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicID=76">Prevent back injuries at work</a>. Take steps to protect your back on the job. Back injuries are the most common type of workplace injury.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/HealthAndSafety/Ergonomics/atwork/Pages/ergo_computers.aspx#chair">Adjust your chair at work to help support your back</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.knowyourback.org/Pages/BackPainPrevention/LifestyleChoices/TenTips.aspx">Check out these 10 tips for a healthy back</a>. </li><li><a href="http://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=76">Print these tips on protecting your back while doing housework</a>. </li></ul>

The Basics Public health emergencies can happen at any time, so make sure you and your family are ready. Planning ahead can help keep you and your family safe if there’s an emergency, like a natural or man-made disaster. Examples of emergencies include:<ul ><li>Natural disasters like floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes</li><li>Flu pandemics (flu outbreaks that spread around the world)</li><li>Blackouts (where large areas lose power)</li><li>Terrorist attacks</li></ul>Emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s important to make sure you and your family are ready. Here’s what you can do:<ul ><li>Get an emergency supply kit.</li><li>Make a family emergency plan.</li><li>Learn what to do in different types of emergencies.</li></ul>

Take Action! Make a family emergency plan. Don’t wait – make a plan with your family today.Make an emergency supply kit. Gather supplies like water, medicines, and blankets. You won’t have time to search or shop for these supplies during an emergency, so put together your kit now. Make sure your kit includes:<ul ><li>Water for at least 3 days. You’ll need at least 1 gallon of water a day for each person and pet.</li><li>Food for at least 3 days. Choose foods that don’t need to be kept cold, like energy bars, peanut butter, crackers, and canned fruit (don’t forget a can opener). <a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FactSheets/keeping_food_Safe_during_an_emergency/index.asp" >Find out how to keep food safe during an emergency</a>.</li><li>Prescription medicine that you take every day, like heart or diabetes medicine.</li><li>A first aid kit to treat cuts, burns, and other basic injuries. <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-kits/FA00067/METHOD=print" >Find out what to put in your family’s first aid kit</a>. (You can also buy first aid kits at many stores.)</li><li>A flashlight and extra batteries.</li><li>A whistle to call for help.</li></ul>Keep your emergency supplies together in a backpack, bag, or easy-to-carry container. Use a waterproof container if possible.For more help putting together your kit, <a href="http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/checklist_1.pdf" >print out this emergency supply kit checklist [PDF - 163 KB]</a>.Make a plan. It’s important to make a plan in case your family members aren’t in the same place when disaster strikes. Consider a plan where each family member calls the same friend or relative if there’s an emergency.<a href="http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/Family_Emegency_Plan.pdf" >Print this Family Emergency Plan [PDF - 520 KB]</a>. Sit down and fill it out together so that everyone in your family knows what to do.Know what to do during different types of emergencies. Find out about the different kinds of disasters that might happen in your area. Decide how you will take action.<ul ><li>First, decide if you will stay where you are or move to a community shelter. It’s important to have a plan for both.</li><li><a href="http://emergency.cdc.gov/preparedness/shelter/" >Learn how to shelter in place</a>. Shelter in place means that you take shelter wherever you are – like at home, work, school, or in your car.</li><li>Find out if your community has an emergency response plan. <a href="http://www.ready.gov/localized-ready-programs" >Get more information about programs and resources in your area</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.bt.cdc.gov/preparedness/quarantine/" >Understand quarantine (“KWAHR-en-teen”) and isolation</a>. This means keeping sick people (or people who might be sick) away from other people to prevent the spread of disease.</li><li>Find out about resources for:<ul><li><a href="http://www.ready.gov/seniors" >Older adults</a></li><li><a href="http://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs" >People with disabilities</a></li><li><a href="http://www.ready.gov/caring-animals" >People with pets</a></li></ul></li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li>Make a list of all medicines you take. Ask your doctor if you can have extras for your first aid kit.</li><li><a href="http://www.ready.gov/identify-local-partners" target=blank >Find emergency preparedness resources near you</a>.</li><li>Ask your child’s school for a copy of their emergency plan to keep at home and work.</li></ul>

The Basics Children are at high risk for injuries. Take steps to keep your child from getting hurt. Children are at high risk for injuries. You can help keep your child from getting hurt by taking action ahead of time.Leading causes of injury and death for children include:<ul><li>Car crashes</li><li>Drowning</li><li>Accidental poisoning</li><li>Fires</li><li>Falls</li><li>Suffocation</li></ul>The good news is that you can help prevent injuries from events like these by taking simple safety steps.A few minutes now could save your child’s life. These simple steps can help prevent injuries inside and outside your home.<ul ><li>Use the right child safety seat in the car on every trip.</li><li>Teach your child to swim and closely watch your child in or near water.</li><li>Keep medicines, vitamins, and cleaning products where your child can’t see or reach them.</li><li>Use smoke alarms. Make and practice a fire escape plan for your home.</li><li>Make sure your child wears the right safety gear (like a helmet or pads) when playing sports or doing other physical activity.</li><li>Suffocation is when a person can’t breath. Create a safe sleeping area for your baby to prevent suffocation.</li></ul>

Take Action! Make sure your child wears the right safety gear (like a helmet and pads) when playing sports. Follow these steps to protect your child.Keep your child safe in the car.<ul ><li>Always buckle your child’s seatbelt.</li><li><a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/CPS" >Choose a safety seat</a> that’s right for your child’s size and age – and for the car.</li><li><a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm" >Have your child’s safety seat inspected</a> to be sure it’s put in the car the right way.</li><li>Make sure that kids under age 13 ride in the back seat.</li><li>Set a good example. Always buckle your seat belt when you drive or ride in a car.</li><li>Never drive after drinking alcohol or using drugs.</li></ul><a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/Driving+Safety/Child+Safety/Keeping+Kids+Safe:+Inside+&+Out" >Get tips on how to keep your child safe in and around a car</a>.Protect kids in and near water.<ul ><li>Never leave your young kids alone in the bathtub – not even for a second. If you have to answer the phone or doorbell, take them with you.</li><li>Teach your kids how to float. As soon as your kids are ready, sign them up for swim lessons.</li><li>If there is a pool where you live, be sure there is a fence around all 4 sides. The fence should separate the house and yard from the pool.</li><li>Watch your kids closely at the pool and beach. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTool.aspx?toolId=42">Follow these tips for safe swimming</a>.</li><li>Make sure your kids wear a life jacket when boating. Use life jackets that are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. <a href="http://www.dbw.ca.gov/BoaterInfo/LifeJacketInfo.aspx#choose" >Find out how to choose the right life jacket</a>.</li></ul><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/drowning/" >Get more tips to protect your kids from drowning</a>.Keep medicine and cleaning products out of your child’s reach.<ul ><li>Keep medicines, vitamins, cleaning supplies, and other poisons (like batteries and bug spray) out of reach and out of sight.</li><li>Put away medicines and cleaning products right after every use.</li><li>After you use a medicine, make sure to always relock the safety cap.</li><li>Put the poison control number (1-800-222-1222) on or near every home telephone, and save it on your cell phone. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</li></ul><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Poisoning/preventiontips.htm#children" >Get more tips to protect your child from poisoning</a>.Put smoke alarms on every floor of your home. Use long-life smoke alarms if possible. These alarms use lithium batteries and last longer than regular smoke alarms. They also have a “hush button” so you can stop the alarm quickly if there’s a false alarm.If you use regular smoke alarms, replace the batteries every year. (Tip: Change smoke alarm batteries when you change your clock back from Daylight Savings Time in the fall.) Follow these other tips on smoke alarms:<ul ><li>Test your smoke alarms once a month by pushing the test button.</li><li>Put smoke alarms on every floor of your home and near places where people sleep.</li><li>Don’t forget to put a smoke alarm in the basement.</li><li>Replace your smoke alarm if it doesn’t work when tested or if it’s more than 10 years old.</li><li>Dust or vacuum smoke alarms when you change the batteries.</li></ul><a href="http://www.usfa.fema.gov/campaigns/50plus/smokealarms.shtm" >Get more tips on smoke alarms</a>.Make a fire escape plan for your home. <a href="http://www.usfa.fema.gov/campaigns/smokealarms/escapeplans/index.shtm" >Use a fire escape plan</a> to get out of your home quickly in an emergency. Make sure your plan includes a safe place away from the house where everyone can meet. Practice your escape plan with your kids.<a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=54">Get more tips on preparing for an emergency</a>.Play safe.<ul ><li>Make sure your child wears a helmet during active sports, such as riding a bike or skateboarding. Helmets and other safety gear help protect the head, face, wrists, and knees.</li><li>Watch your children at the playground. Check for soft landing spots made of mulch, sand, or rubber mats under swings, slides, and climbers Just grass or dirt is not enough.</li></ul><a href="http://www.cpsc.gov/PageFiles/107175/Pg1.pdf" >Use this playground safety checklist [PDF - 66 KB]</a>.Get more tips to protect your kids from:<ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/Sports_Injuries/index.html" >Sports injuries</a></li><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild/Falls/index.html" >Falls</a></li></ul>Create a safe place for your baby to sleep. Suffocation is when a person can’t breath. Babies are most at risk for suffocation when they sleep. <a href="http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-resources-by-risk-area/choking-suffocation-and-strangulation/suffocation-prevention-tips.html" >Get tips on how to create a safe sleep area for your baby</a>.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.usfa.fema.gov/campaigns/usfaparents/escape/" >Make a fire escape plan for your home</a>.</li><li>Call 1-800-222-1222 to ask for a free Poison Help sticker and magnet.</li><li><a href="http://www.nhtsa.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm">Get your child’s car safety seat inspected</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics Follow the directions carefully when you use medicine. Medicines can help you feel better and get well. But if you don’t follow the directions, medicines can hurt you.You can lower your chances of side effects (unwanted or unexpected effects) from medicines by following directions carefully. Side effects may be mild, like an upset stomach. Other side effects can be more serious, like damage to your liver.When you follow the directions on the medicine’s label or from your pharmacist, doctor, or nurse, you get the best results.There are simple steps you can take to avoid problems.<ul ><li>Follow the medicine’s directions carefully.</li><li>If you don’t understand the medicine’s directions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.</li><li>Keep a list of all the medicines, vitamins, minerals, and herbs you use. Share this information with your doctor.</li><li>Put your medicines in a cool, dry place where children and pets can’t see or get to them.</li></ul>There are different types of medicine. The 2 main types of medicine are prescription and over the counter (OTC).Prescription medicines Prescription medicines are medicines you can get only with a prescription (or order) from your doctor. You get this medicine at a pharmacy.<ul ><li>Prescription medicines shouldn’t be used by anyone except the person whose name is on the prescription.</li><li>Throw away expired (out-of-date) or unused prescription medicines. Ask your pharmacist about the safest way to throw medicines away.</li></ul>Sometimes you can choose between a generic medicine and a brand name medicine. Generic and brand name medicines work the same way. Generic medicine usually costs less.Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company for more information about generic medicines. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/downloads/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForWomen/UCM121876.pdf" >Learn more about generic medicines [PDF - 108 KB]</a>.Over-the-counter medicines  Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are medicines you can buy at a store without a prescription. All OTC medicines come with a Drug Facts label. This label can help you choose the right OTC medicine for you and your problem.The label also gives you instructions for using the medicine safely. Even OTC medicines can cause side effects or harm you if you use too much or don’t use them correctly.Some examples of OTC medicines include:<ul ><li>Cold and flu medicines</li><li>Pain medicines like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen</li><li>Allergy medicines</li><li>Sleep aids</li><li>Toothpaste with fluoride</li><li>Antiperspirant (found in many underarm deodorants)</li></ul>Follow the directions on the label to lower your chances of side effects.<a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/aging/drugs-alternative-medicine/how-to-read-drug-labels.cfm#OTC" >Learn more about what’s on an OTC Drug Facts label</a>.

Take Action! Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. Prevent problems and mistakes with your medicines.Follow directions carefully. Be sure to read the Drug Facts label carefully. Even over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can cause problems or harm you if you use too much or don’t use them correctly.If you notice unpleasant changes after taking medicine, like feeling dizzy or having an upset stomach, call your doctor or nurse.<a href="http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/UnderstandingOver-the-CounterMedicines/UCM201466.pdf" >Review this guide to using OTC medicines safely [PDF - 944 KB]</a>.Talk to your doctor. Before you use any new prescription medicines, tell your doctor:<ul ><li>About other medicines you use – both prescription and OTC medicines</li><li>About any vitamins, minerals, or herbs you use</li><li>If you are allergic to any medicines</li><li>If you have had side effects after using any medicines</li><li>If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, because some medicines may harm your baby</li></ul>Keep taking prescription medicines until your doctor tells you it’s okay to stop – even if you are feeling better.Ask questions to make sure you understand. To use a medicine safely, you need to know:<ul ><li>What the medicine is</li><li>Why you are using the medicine</li><li>How to use the medicine the right way</li></ul>Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist questions to be sure you understand how to use your medicine.<ul ><li><a href="http://www.ahrq.gov/patients-consumers/diagnosis-treatment/treatments/safemeds/yourmedques.html" >Take this list of questions about medicine</a> with you the next time you visit the doctor or nurse. Take notes to help you remember.</li><li>If you forget how to use a medicine or if you don’t understand the directions, you can always ask a pharmacist. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/ucm163330.htm" >Use these tips to talk with a pharmacist about your medicines</a>.</li></ul>Keep track of your medicines.<ul ><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/downloads/AboutFDA/ReportsManualsForms/Forms/UCM095018.pdf" >Make a list of the medicines you use [PDF - 340 KB]</a>. Write down how much you use and when you use each medicine.</li><li>Take this list with you when you go to the doctor or nurse. You may want to make a copy to give to a family member or friend.</li><li>Make sure to read and save any information that comes with your medicine.</li><li>Keep your medicine in the box or bottle it came in so you have all of the label information.</li><li>Pay attention to the color and shape of your pills. If they look different when you get a refill, ask your pharmacist to double-check that you have the right medicine.</li></ul>Put your medicines in a safe place. Medicines that are stored correctly last longer and work better.<ul ><li>Keep your medicines in a cool, dry place to help them work better and last longer. Medicines can break down quickly in places that are damp and warm, like in the kitchen and some bathrooms.</li><li>Keep medicines away from children and pets. A locked box, cabinet, or closet is best. <a href="http://www.upandaway.org/" >Get more tips for how to keep medicines away from children</a>.</li><li>Get rid of expired (out-of-date) medicines and medicines you no longer use. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm101653.htm" >Follow these instructions to get rid of old or extra medicines safely</a>.</li></ul>Call the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away if a child or someone else accidentally uses your medicine.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/aging/drugs-alternative-medicine/how-to-read-drug-labels.cfm#OTC">Find out how to read over-the-counter medicine labels</a>.</li><li>Check the expiration date on all of your medicines.</li><li><a href="http://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/SafeUseofMedicines_0.pdf">Get tips for older adults on using medicines safely [PDF - 438 KB]</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics Knowing basic first aid can help you deal with injuries and emergencies. Do you know what to do in an emergency? What if someone has a heart attack or gets stung by a bee?An accident or emergency can happen at any time. Giving first aid is what you can do to help someone before medical help arrives. Taking action right away can help save a life.<ul ><li>Learn when to call 911.</li><li>Learn how to help someone who is choking.</li><li>Take a class to learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). CPR is a way to help when someone’s heart or breathing has stopped by providing chest compressions.</li><li>Keep a first aid kit in your house and your car.</li></ul>Find out more about:<ul><li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/firstaid.html" >First aid</a></li><li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/cpr.html" >CPR</a></li></ul>

Take Action! Sign up for a first aid class in your community. Plan ahead for injuries and emergencies.Learn when to call 911. Call 911 when you need help right away. Call 911 if someone is seriously hurt, stops breathing, or if there is a fire. Don’t call 911 for things like a flat tire.<ul ><li><a href="http://www.911.gov/whencall.html" >Get more information on when to call 911</a>.</li><li><a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/911.html" >Teach your children how to use 911</a>, and keep the number next to the phone.</li></ul>Learn what to do when someone is choking. When someone is choking on food or a small object, it’s important to act right away. You can press your fist against a person’s stomach to force out whatever is causing that person to choke. This is called the Heimlich (“HIME-lik”) maneuver.<ul ><li><a href="http://depts.washington.edu/learncpr/videodemo/choking-adult-video.html" >Watch this video on how to do the Heimlich maneuver</a>. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/../aboutus/disclaimer.aspx"> <img alt="External Links Disclaimer Logo" border="0" height="10" src="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/../images/exit_disclaimer.png" width="10" /></a></li><li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001983.htm" >Find out how to do the Heimlich maneuver on yourself if you are alone and choking</a>.</li></ul>Take a first aid and CPR class. Taking a class will teach you how to give first aid and CPR correctly. This training will help you respond quickly and safely in emergencies.<a href="http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class" >Find a first aid and CPR class in your community</a>. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/../aboutus/disclaimer.aspx"> <img alt="External Links Disclaimer Logo" border="0" height="10" src="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/../images/exit_disclaimer.png" width="10" /></a>Keep a first aid kit in your house and your car. A first aid kit has the things you need to treat someone who is hurt. It includes supplies like bandages, tape, and scissors. It’s a good idea to have one kit for the house and one for the car.Make sure each first aid kit has directions on how to treat basic injuries and when to get more help. After you use your kit, remember to replace the supplies.<a href="http://home.fema.gov/plan/prepare/firstaid.shtm" >Use this list to check the supplies in your first aid kits</a>.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/first-aid/first-aid-cuts-scrapes-and-stitches.printerview.all.html" >Put these instructions for treating cuts, scrapes, and stitches in your first aid kit</a>. </li><li><a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/sheets/nosebleeds_sheet.html" >Find out how to treat a nosebleed</a>. </li><li><a href="http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/pack-smart.htm#travelhealthkit" >Know what to pack in your first aid kit when you travel [PDF - 578 KB]</a>. </li></ul>

The Basics Work can put a lot of wear and tear on your body. Make simple changes to prevent injuries. If work isn’t performed safely, it can put a lot of wear and tear on your body. Back injuries are the most common type of workplace injury.Make simple changes to prevent injuries and stay healthy:<ul ><li>Lift things safely.</li><li>Arrange your equipment to fit your body.</li><li>Take short breaks and stretch your muscles.</li><li>Eat a healthy diet and stay active.</li><li>Watch your weight.</li><li>Get enough sleep.</li></ul>Why do I need to take steps to prevent injuries at work? All types of jobs – even desk jobs – can lead to injuries. For example:<ul ><li>You can injure your back, shoulders, or neck if you lift or carry heavy objects.</li><li>You can hurt yourself when you do the same activity over and over again, like typing or working on an assembly line.</li></ul>An injury caused by doing the same activity over and over is called a repetitive motion injury. More and more workers are getting repetitive motion injuries.

Take Action! Put the tools you use often where you can reach them easily. Follow these tips to stay safe on the job.Lift things safely. When you lift something heavy:<ul ><li>Bend at your knees, not at your waist.</li><li>Keep your back straight.</li><li>Test the object first. If it’s too heavy, get help.</li></ul><a href="http://www.lakecountyfl.gov/documents/employee_services/safety_program/Proper_Lifting_Techniques.pdf" >Get more tips on safer lifting at work [PDF - 67KB]</a>.Prevent repetitive motion injuries. Sit or stand up straight while you work. Take the time to arrange your equipment to fit your body. Don’t try to adjust your body to work with equipment that’s not set up right or you.<ul ><li>Adjust your chair to your height.</li><li>Put the tools and equipment you use where you can easily reach them.</li><li><a href="http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/HealthAndSafety/Ergonomics/atwork/Pages/ergo_computers.aspx" >Try these suggestions for working safely at the computer</a>.</li></ul>Talk with your boss or employer about how to make sure your office equipment is adjusted right for you.<a href="http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/checklist.html" >Use this checklist to see if your computer workstation is safe and comfortable.</a>Take short breaks. Even a 5-minute break can help increase your concentration and reduce stress. Take short breaks often to stretch or go for a walk. <ul ><li><a href="http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/sr/dohs/HealthAndSafety/Ergonomics/atwork/Pages/ergo_computers.aspx#muscular" >Try these stretches at work</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/family/minutes/tips/takeabreak/index.htm" >Get more 5-minute break ideas</a>.</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=68">Get enough sleep</a>. Getting a good night’s sleep every night is important for performing well at work. When you are well rested, you are more likely to make good decisions and avoid getting hurt.Stay healthy. A healthy body helps protect you from injuries on the job. To stay in shape:<ul><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=21">Eat healthy</a> – Your body needs the right vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to stay healthy.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=22">Get active</a> – To get the health benefits of physical activity, do a combination of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.</li><li><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=25">Watch your weight</a> – To stay at a healthy weight, balance the calories you eat with the calories you burn (use up).</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-116/pdfs/2010-116.pdf" >If you work outside, get tips to protect yourself from the sun [PDF - 674 KB]</a>.</li><li>Get help if you need to lift something heavy.</li><li><a href="http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/complain.html">Report unsafe work conditions</a>.</li></ul>

The Basics A flu pandemic is a global outbreak of a new flu virus that spreads around the world and makes many people sick. A flu pandemic is a global outbreak of a new flu virus that spreads easily from person to person.How is a flu pandemic different from seasonal (regular) flu? Both types of flu are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. In the United States, flu season is in the fall and winter. Every flu season, a vaccine is made to protect against seasonal flu. A flu pandemic is caused by a new flu virus that spreads easily and makes many people sick around the world. For example, the 2009 H1N1 virus (also called “swine flu”) caused a flu pandemic.<a href="http://www.flu.gov/pandemic/about/index.html#comparison" >Find out more about how a flu pandemic is different from seasonal flu</a>.Will the seasonal flu vaccine protect me against a flu pandemic? The seasonal flu vaccine probably won’t protect against a pandemic flu virus. If a new flu virus starts to spread, a new vaccine may be made to protect people against it.If there is a flu pandemic, you will need to get the pandemic vaccine when it’s available. It takes time to make vaccines to protect people from the flu.How can I prepare for a flu pandemic? The same steps you take every year to protect yourself from seasonal flu can help in case of a pandemic. <ul ><li>Get a seasonal flu shot every year. Make sure everyone in your family age 6 months and older also gets a flu shot every year. </li><li>Wash your hands often.</li><li>Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.</li><li>Stay away from others if you are sick with a fever or other flu symptoms.</li></ul>It’s also a good idea to prepare for a flu pandemic like you would prepare for any emergency or time when you might need to stay home for 1 to 2 weeks.<ul ><li>Gather supplies.</li><li>Make an emergency plan for your family.</li><li>Write down important health information.</li></ul>How serious can a flu pandemic be? Not all pandemics are the same. Pandemics can range from mild (similar to a regular flu season) to severe (with a lot of sickness and deaths).A severe flu pandemic can make a lot of people sick at the same time. This can cause schools, businesses, and community events to shut down in order to slow the spread of illness.<a href="http://pandemicflu.gov/pandemic/about/index.html" >Learn more about pandemic flu</a>.

Take Action! Make an emergency plan with your family. Take steps to stop the spread of germs and to prepare for an emergency, like a flu pandemic.Stop the spread of germs. To help stop the spread of germs that can cause the flu and other illnesses:<ul ><li>Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Wash your hands often with soap and water. You can also use an alcohol-based hand cleaner if soap and water aren’t available.</li><li>Don’t touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. This helps keep germs out of your body.</li><li>Avoid close contact with sick people.</li><li>Stay home from work or school if you get sick. Stay home (except to go to the doctor) for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)</li><li>If you are sick, limit contact with other people so you don’t make them sick.</li><li>Follow the advice of local officials about school and other closings.</li></ul><a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=18">Get a seasonal flu shot every year</a>. Everyone age 6 months and older needs to get a flu shot every year. The best way to protect yourself and others from seasonal flu is to get a flu shot. <a href="http://flushot.healthmap.org/" >Use this flu clinic locator</a> to find out where you can get a flu shot.A seasonal flu vaccine probably won’t protect you against a new pandemic flu virus. In a pandemic, a new vaccine will need to be made. This can take time. <a href="http://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/ViewTopic.aspx?topicId=54">Prepare for an emergency</a>. You can help your family get through an emergency, like a flu pandemic, by taking these steps now.Gather supplies. <a href="http://www.ready.gov/basic-disaster-supplies-kit" >Print out this emergency supply kit list</a> and share it with your family. Start gathering emergency supplies and put them in a safe place. Keep enough water, food, medicine, and other supplies to last 2 weeks.Make a family emergency plan. Talk with your family about what you will do if there is a severe flu pandemic. For example, what will you do if schools are closed?Make a list of emergency contact information. Include the phone numbers for your local hospital, doctor, school, and other emergency contacts. <a href="http://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/documents/files/Family_Emegency_Plan.pdf" >Print out this family emergency plan to get started [PDF - 520 KB]</a>.Write down important health information. <a href="http://www.osha.gov/dte/grant_materials/fy07/sh-16618-07/emergency_health_info_sheet.pdf" >Print out this emergency health information sheet [PDF - 29 KB]</a>. Write down the health information for each member of your family. Include information like:<ul><li>Allergies</li><li>Health conditions</li><li>Medicine</li></ul>Keep this information in a safe place.

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.osha.gov/dte/grant_materials/fy07/sh-16618-07/emergency_health_info_sheet.pdf" >Fill out this emergency health information sheet [PDF - 29 KB]</a>.</li><li><a href="http://pandemicflu.gov/planning-preparedness/states/index.html ">Find local pandemic flu resources in your state</a>.</li><li>Begin to gather emergency supplies in a safe place.</li></ul>

The Basics You can get food poisoning from eating bad (contaminated) food. Protect your family by buying, storing, and preparing foods safely. Food poisoning (foodborne illness) is when you get sick from eating or drinking something that has harmful germs (like bacteria, viruses, or parasites) in it. Two common causes of food poisoning are E. coli and Salmonella. Good habits like these can help protect your family from food poisoning: <ul > <li>Buy food from stores that look and smell clean.</li> <li>Don’t buy food past “sell by,” “use by,” or other expiration dates.</li> <li>Wash your hands often with warm water and soap – especially before and after touching food.</li> <li>Make sure food is cooked to a safe temperature.</li> <li>Keep raw meat and seafood away from cooked and ready-to-eat food.</li> <li>Keep cold foods cold. Keep hot foods hot.</li> </ul>What causes food poisoning? You can get food poisoning from eating bad (contaminated) food. Bacteria are the most common cause of food poisoning. Bacteria can get into food in several ways.<ul ><li>Foods may have some bacteria on them when you buy them.</li><li>Raw meat, poultry (like chicken and turkey), fish, vegetables, and fruit may pick up bacteria where they are grown or packaged.</li><li>Foods can also pick up bacteria at the store or in the kitchen. This usually happens when food that needs to be kept cold is left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.</li></ul>What’s the difference between food poisoning and a food allergy? Food poisoning is caused by something in the food or drink that doesn’t belong there – like bacteria or a parasite. Anyone can get food poisoning.A food allergy is caused by the food itself. People with a food allergy will have a bad reaction to a specific food, like milk or peanuts, every time they eat it.How do I know if I have food poisoning? Some signs of food poisoning include:<ul><li>Stomach cramps</li><li>Vomiting (throwing up)</li><li>Diarrhea (frequent, watery poop)</li><li>Fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Body aches</li></ul>Signs of food poisoning can start hours or even days after eating bad food. Usually the effects only last for a day or two, but they can last up to 10 days.The treatment for most cases of food poisoning is to drink lots of fluids, like water. For more serious illness, you may need treatment at a hospital.When do I need to call the doctor? Call a doctor right away if you:<ul ><li>Are throwing up many times a day for more than 2 days</li><li>Have blood in your vomit or stools (poop)</li><li>Have a fever higher than 101.5 °F (degrees Fahrenheit)</li><li>Aren’t able to drink any liquids for 24 hours</li><li>Are throwing up all liquids you try to drink for 24 hours</li><li>Have extreme pain or cramping in your stomach</li><li>Are feeling very weak, dizzy, or lightheaded</li></ul>Who needs to be concerned about food poisoning? Anyone can get sick from eating bad food. But food poisoning is a serious health risk for pregnant women, children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions (like AIDS, diabetes, and cancer).Get tips on food safety just for:<ul><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/HealthEducators/ucm083308.htm" >Pregnant women</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/HealthEducators/ucm089629.htm" >Babies</a></li><li><a href="http://www.choosemyplate.gov/preschoolers/food-safety.html" >Young children</a></li><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/Seniors/ucm182679.htm" >Older adults</a></li><li><a href="http://www.foodsafety.gov/poisoning/risk/chronicillnesses/index.html" >People with certain health conditions</a></li></ul>

Take Action! When you shop, keep raw meat and seafood away from the cooked and ready-to-eat food in your cart. Cooking meals at home is a great way to stay healthy and save money. Follow these simple steps to keep your family safe from food poisoning.Shop smart when you buy food. Shop at stores that look and smell clean. A dirty store or a bad smell can be a sign that food hasn’t been stored safely.Follow these other safety tips when you choose food at the store:<ul ><li>Check the expiration (“use by” or “sell by”) dates on everything you buy.</li><li>Don’t buy cans that are leaking, bulging, or badly dented.</li><li>Don’t buy bottles or jars with “popped” lids or broken seals.</li><li>Buy eggs that have been kept in the store’s refrigerated section. Make sure they are free of cracks and liquid.</li><li>Put meat, poultry (like chicken and turkey), fish, and eggs in plastic bags, or separate them from other food in your cart or basket. This will keep them from leaking onto your other food.</li><li>Pick out frozen foods last so they are less likely to thaw before you get them home.</li><li>Make sure frozen food packages aren’t open or crushed. Avoid packages with frost or ice crystals – these are signs that the food has become warm and then refrozen.</li></ul>Plan ahead to get food home safely. Cold foods need to be put into a refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible. Follow these tips:<ul ><li>Cold food needs to be refrigerated within 2 hours. If it’s a hot day – over 90 °F (degrees Fahrenheit) – it needs to be refrigerated within 1 hour.</li><li>If you have other errands to do, save food shopping for last.</li><li>If you live far from the store, pack a cooler with ice for your cold items.</li><li>If you are driving and have air conditioning in your car, use it to help keep food cool.</li><li>Put cold foods in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as you get home.</li></ul>Protect yourself from food poisoning at home. After you get the food home, follow these tips for a healthy kitchen. Keep your hands and kitchen clean. Wash your hands with warm water and soap often, especially: <ul> <li>Before and after handling food </li> <li>After using the bathroom </li> <li>After changing a diaper </li> <li>After touching pets </li> </ul> Make sure to wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils (like knives and spoons), and counters with hot soapy water after preparing each food item.Separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood from ready-to-eat foods. Use one cutting board for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and another one for fresh vegetables and fruits. Place cooked food on a clean plate. Don’t use a plate that had raw or uncooked food on it, especially raw meat, poultry, or seafood. Make sure food is safely cooked. You can’t tell if meat, poultry, and eggs are cooked just by looking at them. The only way to be sure food is cooked safely is to use a food thermometer. A food thermometer will check the temperature inside the food to make sure the food is safe to eat. <ul > <li><a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Is_It_Done_Yet/Brochure_Text/index.asp#4">Find out how to use a food thermometer</a>. </li> <li><a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/PDF/IsItDoneYet_Magnet.pdf">Print this chart of the recommended cooking temperatures for foods [PDF - 3 MB]</a> and put it on your refrigerator. </li> </ul>Keep cold foods cold. Refrigerate or freeze all food that can go bad if it’s left at room temperature (like meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and open jars of mayonnaise).Food needs to be refrigerated at 40 °F (degrees Fahrenheit) or cooler. Food can go bad quickly if you leave it at a temperature between 40 °F and 140 °F for more than 2 hours.<ul ><li>Check the settings on your refrigerator and freezer. Set the temperatures to:<ul><li>40 °F or below for the refrigerator</li><li>0 °F or below for the freezer</li></ul></li><li>Keep thermometers in the refrigerator and freezer to make sure they are staying at the correct temperatures.</li><li>Throw away food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If it’s a hot day (over 90 °F), throw away food left out for more than 1 hour.</li></ul>Use foods that need to be kept in the refrigerator (dairy, meat, poultry, seafood, fruits, and vegetables) as soon as possible. <a href="http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/storagetimes.html" >Print this chart of how long food is safe and put it on your refrigerator</a>.Stay safe from food poisoning when you eat out. These tips can help you enjoy healthy, safe meals away from home:<ul ><li>See if a restaurant looks clean before you even sit down. If the restaurant doesn’t look and smell clean, eat somewhere else.</li><li>Order your food fully cooked (well-done), especially meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Cooking kills germs.</li><li>Hot food needs to be served hot, and cold food needs to be served cold. Send back your dish if it’s the wrong temperature.</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Molds_On_Food/index.asp#16">Find out when to throw out moldy food</a>.</li><li>Keep soap and a towel by your kitchen sink to help you remember to wash your hands.</li><li><a href="http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm077023.htm">Keep food safe when the power goes out</a>.</li></ul>

Start Today: Small Steps <ul><li><a href="http://travel.state.gov/travel/travel_1744.html">Get information on issues that could affect your safety</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.istm.org/WebForms/SearchClinics/Default.aspx?SearchType=Advanced">Find a health clinic in the area you will be visiting</a>.</li><li><a href="http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.htm">Use this tool to find health information for specific countries</a>.</li></ul>