Learn the do’s and don’ts of safe camping
A camping getaway puts nature on your doorstep.  The chance to escape a
busy lifestyle and spend time with family is worth risking inevitable
rainstorms and mosquito bites, but it may not be worth risking your
safety in the great outdoors.
St. John Ambulance suggests you follow some simple do’s and don’ts to
ensure your camping trip remains the relaxing, enjoyable experience you
intended:
1) Do pack plenty of food and water.
2) Do pack clothing and footwear suited for the terrain and weather.
3) Do bring a fully stocked First Aid kit, insect repellent and
sunscreen.
4) Don’t forget extra flashlight batteries and a spare bulb.
5) Do store lighters, matches and other sources of ignition in a sturdy,
dry container.
6) Do set up camp in a safe, organized manner; make sure tents and tarps
will be a safe distance from open flames and sparks, and avoid pitching
your tent under broken tree branches that could fall.
7) Don’t leave food out where it can attract insects and animals.
8) Do keep your campsite clean by disposing of food in a responsible
manner; you’ll help the environment and reduce the risk of attracting
scavenger animals such as bears.
9) Do be cautious using sharp tools such as hatchets and axes; always
cut wood in a safe manner, and never consume alcohol beforehand.
10) Do supervise your campfire; never leave a fire unattended, and
properly extinguish it before going to bed.
11) Do play safe in unknown water; understand the hazards hidden under
the surface of lakes and rivers.
12) Do let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to
return; this includes short outings away from the campsite.
13) Do stay in a group so help is available if something goes wrong.
14) Don’t take safety for granted;
You can reduce suffering, prevent injury or save a life by knowing what
to do in an emergency.  St. John Ambulance can teach you First Aid and
CPR skills and provide you with First Aid kits you can depend on.  For
125 years, St. John has been ensuring the health, safety and quality of
life of Canadians.  Visit www.sja.ca/ab for more summer safety tips and
information about our training programs, products and community service.

Learn the do’s and don’ts of safe camping

A camping getaway puts nature on your doorstep.  The chance to escape a busy lifestyle and spend time with family is worth risking inevitable rainstorms and mosquito bites, but it may not be worth risking your safety in the great outdoors.

Me Being Eaten by Camp Kandahar

St. John Ambulance suggests you follow some simple do’s and don’ts to ensure your camping trip remains the relaxing, enjoyable experience you intended: more…

  • Share/Bookmark

Steps to avoiding obesity in children may seem obvious. But considering the rise in childhood obesity and the risks associated a few small steps can go a long way.

Over the past 25 years, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents has risen, with the most substantial increases observed in economically developed countries…  In 1978/79, 12% of 2- to 17-year-olds were overweight, and 3% were obese—a combined overweight/obesity rate of 15%. By 2004, the overweight rate for this age group was 18% (an estimated 1.1 million), and 8% were obese (about half a million)—a combined rate of 26%
- StatsCan

n 1978/79, 12% of 2- to 17-year-olds were overweight, and 3% were obese—a combined overweight/obesity rate of 15%. By 2004, the overweight rate for this age group was 18% (an estimated 1.1 million), and 8% were obese (about half a million)—a combined rate of 26%

So what can you do to start making a difference in your child’s life?

  • Set a good example. If your children observe you being physically active, they are more likely to be active.
  • Be active together as a family. Plan active outings such as a walking trip to a city attraction, hiking or biking through the river valley, playing sports with a friend’s family.
  • Encourage your children to walk or bike to school. Go with your children to teach safety tips en route. Active physical programs are a fun option to keep them moving and motivated.
  • Set limits on the amount of time your family spends watching TV and playing video games. Help your children discover fun physical activities that they will enjoy. Encourage your children to join a FUN and non-competitive sport or activity.
  • Eat healthy avoid the “junk food” temptations. Children and adults need nutritionally rich food to provide the energy required to be active. Eating habits are learned, so teach your children healthy eating while they are young.

So what do you do to keep your kids healthy and active? Leave us a comment below.

  • Share/Bookmark
Nursery Rhymes & Babies

Nursery Rhymes & Babies

Babies love rhymes. Before birth, babies hear the rhythmic beat of their mother’s heart. Shortly after birth they are conscious of different rhythms, including their own sucking rhythms as well as breathing and rocking. They seem ready to tune into rhythms of speech – in fact, babies seem to pay more attention to rhymes and be more responsive to them than to normal speech.

Why rhymes are so good for babies and toddlers

  • Your baby has your undivided attention and your face is close, so they can more easily ‘read’ and later imitate the sounds
  • Your speech is softer, slower and higher-pitched than normal speech, which makes understanding easier and reflects your love for your child
  • more…

  • Share/Bookmark

night-out-tennis-header

The Family Friendly Business Alliance presents My Night Out.
A chance for adults to experience an enjoyable event with others in the Edmonton area.

My night out happens one Wednesday of every month and will always be a new experience.

NEXT EVENT
Wednesday July 14th at 7:00 p.m.

Steve Gould, tennis expert and owner of Ace Tennis Academy – Instruction, games and fun.
$18/couple. $10/person.

Do not bring anything but enthusiasm and a water bottle.
If you would like to bring your own tennis racket, that is great too.

We will receive instruction for 1 1/2 hrs and then head over to Jeffrey’s café and wine bar – 9640 142 Street. Price includes the group lesson and a beverage at Jeffrey’s.
Maximum 24 people.

night-out-tennis-footer

  • Share/Bookmark

Playing tennis is a great way to enjoy those long summer days.  Don’t know how to play? That’s no problem, the Ace Tennis Academy has got you covered.  With a group of knowledgeable instructors, you’ll be servingace-tennis-academy-alberta aces in no time.

Ace recently launched their new Summer Program, with plenty of programs available for players of all ages and skill levels.  They offer a variety of types of lessons from private to summer camps and even mini tennis lessons for the youngsters aged 5-7.  With a variety of locations to choose from, they’re sure to be nearby.

Ace’s Summer Program is now available online, for all the details please see the following link: Ace Tennis Academy Programs.

  • Share/Bookmark