Health Tips for September 15

Health Tip: Monitor the Mercury in Your Food

Mercury is found in many types of fish and shellfish. Because significant amounts of mercury can harm unborn babies and young children, women who are or may become pregnant, those who are nursing, and young children should avoid some kinds of seafood.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers these guidelines:

* Avoid eating fish that contain high levels of mercury, including swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish.
* It's OK to eat up to 12 ounces per week of low-mercury fish and shellfish -- including shrimp, salmon, canned light tuna, pollock and catfish.
* Albacore tuna and tuna steak have more mercury than canned light tuna, so don't eat more than 6 ounces of albacore or tuna steak per week.
* Before you eat any fish caught locally, be aware of any advisories about the safety of local fish.

Health Tip: Stay Safe on the School Bus

Children should know how to safely board and leave the school bus, and what to do during the ride to and from school.

The U.S. National Safety Council has these recommendations:

* Wait until the bus stops and the door opens before stepping onto the roadway.
* Use the hand rail when boarding or leaving the bus.
* Board the bus calmly and choose a seat quickly. Take a seat as soon as possible.
* Children should always stay in their seats when the bus is moving.
* There should be no loud talking, yelling or other distractions that may bother the bus driver.
* Keep head, arms and hands inside the bus. Never stick them out the window.
* Keep books, backpacks and other belongings stored on or below the seat, and keep the aisle of the bus clear.
* Once the bus comes to a complete stop, children may stand and exit the bus quickly and safely through the front door.
* If children must cross in front of the bus, they should walk at least 10 feet ahead of the bus along the side of the road, until they can turn around and see the driver. The driver should also be able to see them.
* Children must wait for a signal from the driver before crossing the street.