Ticks are crawling around in greater numbers than in the past. Blacklegged (deer) ticks may carry the infectious Lyme disease. If you feel sick or notice circular red rashes on your body after adventuring outside, call your healthcare provider immediately.

To help prevent tick bites this summer:



• Don’t walk barelegged in tall grass.
• Tuck your pant legs into your socks.
• Wear long sleeves and light coloured clothing to spot ticks easier.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET.
• Check your clothes, examine your pets, and take a shower when you get home.

If you spot a tick somewhere, download the etick app and report it to help keep our community safe. Photos submitted for identification are reviewed by experts within 48 hours.

In honour of Mental Health Week taking place this month, we’re focusing on this year’s theme of unmasking mental health.  

Living with mental health challenges often forces people to hide behind a “mask” to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. While it can be protective in the short term, masking is mentally and emotionally exhausting in the long term. It adds to stress, creates disconnection and can prevent people from seeking the help they need.  



Understanding the impacts of masking helps foster empathy and builds more inclusive, mentally healthy communities. 

Did you know that metal barbecue brush bristles can fall off, stick to food, and be accidentally swallowed? Always inspect your cleaning brushes before every use and replace them seasonally. Safer alternatives such as wooden brushes are highly recommended and commonly available.



When preparing to barbecue, remember that harmful bacteria grow quicker in warm weather. Always marinate and store raw meat in your refrigerator to prevent foodborne illness. Avoid cross-contamination of ready-to-eat foods with raw meat while cooking. Insert a digital thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to ensure it’s fully cooked. Use a clean plate when taking food off the grill and always wash your hands with warm water and soap before and after handling raw meat.

World No Tobacco Day is May 31. This month, we recognize the detrimental effects of tobacco.   

Although it’s hard, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do to improve your life and health. With the right combination of practice, determination and support, you can stop smoking for good. 

Talk to your healthcare provider or local pharmacist for help to quit smoking or vaping.