As warmer weather arrives, the South East Health Unit is reminding residents to stay safe while doing seasonal clean-up around their homes, cottages, and properties. While yard maintenance is essential, it can expose individuals to several health hazards.
Tick and mosquito populations thrive in overgrown vegetation and stagnant water. To reduce the risk of Lyme disease and other insect-borne illnesses, residents are urged to trim brush, mow tall grass, and eliminate standing water in items like old tires or clogged gutters. Creating barriers with wood chips or gravel between yards and wooded areas can also help deter pests.
When cleaning cottages, sheds, or garages, be cautious of droppings from rodents or birds, which may carry harmful microorganisms. The Health Unit recommends ventilating spaces before cleaning, wearing gloves and a mask, and using a bleach solution to dampen droppings before removal.
Residents should also be cautious of harmful plants like wild parsnip and poison ivy, which can cause severe skin reactions. Regular mowing helps prevent their spread.
Finally, spring is an ideal time to test well water for bacteria and chemicals. The Health Unit recommends testing at least three times per year to ensure water safety.
More information is available on the Health Unit’s website.
Written by Tim Baltz
