Tips for keeping kids safe around water

posted 05:34 PM 05/29
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We know water is everywhere in Thurston County. And it is great fun for the whole family, especially kids. It also is a place where safety must come first, so here I offer a few tips for kids who love to get wet.

The hard fact is that drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children between 1 and 4 years old. Moreover, it is the third leading cause of death among children of all ages.

The main form of prevention: Always watch your child around water. We know it sounds strict, but there is no room for compromise on this one. Put the cell phone away, forget about all the other things you have to do, and give young children 100 percent of your attention when they are near water. This is an adult job. There are too many double tragedies that have occurred when an older child was put in charge and both drown.

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Use slow-release fertilizers that feed your lawn, not your weeds

posted 01:57 PM 05/16

May is a good time to feed your lawn. Lawns are growing faster than we can mow, quickly using up the last of winter’s reserves. Warmer soils mean those little soil critters that help break down nutrients in fertilizers are waking up, ready to eat. Organic slow-release fertilizers depend on these soil microbes to break down nutrients for plants. It is this process that makes them last longer and give plants a steady source of nutrients.

Marijuana not legal or safe for teens

posted 11:45 AM 05/02

Just because something is legal does not mean it is safe, especially when it comes to kids. In light of changes in state law, many parents wonder how to handle the whole issue around marijuana use. Our kids need clear information and advice about substances that are legal and risky. We started spreading that message as a community, by setting the legal age at 21 years old for marijuana use.

Join a community conversation about preventing child abuse

posted 01:14 PM 04/18

The Junior League of Olympia is organizing Thurston County’s first Community Summit, called “Resilient Children, Resilient Communities.” The free, public event is slated for 5-7 p.m. April 26 at The Olympia Center. Speakers will discuss the impact of adverse childhood experiences and provide a forum for dialogue about child abuse prevention.

Dealing with the 'stuff' of spring cleaning

posted 11:03 AM 04/03

Spring has arrived and with tree blossoms and more daylight comes ... spring cleaning! When it is time to clean out the garage, shed, or closets, you might be ready to say goodbye to the clutter, but wonder what to do with all of those unwanted treasures. Dr. Diana Yu suggests the best ways to get rid of all that stuff.

World TB Day is March 24

posted 05:19 PM 03/20

Our country's success at combatting TB makes us vulnerable to complacency and neglect. But it also gives us an opportunity to eliminate TB in this country. We need to talk about what is needed to finish the job and eliminate TB here.

Minimize health risks during painting projects

posted 03:23 PM 03/06

Most paints contain chemicals called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. They give paint its consistency and evaporate as it dries. VOCs can cause headaches, eye irritation, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Long-term exposure can damage the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys.

Help community gardens thrive in Thurston County

posted 04:53 PM 02/20

Thurston County has 11 community gardens that serve about 235 households, but it wants to start more in the hearts of Olympia and Lacey to increase access to affordable fresh fruits and veggies.

Celebrate the new year by flushing your home with fresh air and good luck

posted 03:32 PM 02/06

For Chinese New Year, which is Sunday, common lore is that you turn on all the lights and let the air flow through your home to get rid of bad luck and bring in new luck. This may not be such a bad idea to decrease indoor air problems as well.

Don't visit the ER unless it's really an emergency

posted 05:24 PM 01/23

It's flu season and lots of us are feeling bad. But unless you have a true emergency, see your doctor with prolonged or extreme symptoms -- don't go to the ER where you may simply spread your illness or pick up a new one.