Even if you don't usually get a flu shot and even though most of us are staying at home, socially distancing, wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and have hand sanitizer at the ready--review the guidelines for flu shots and make sure you have a plan for the 2022-2023 flu season. Flu shot recommendations for … [Read more...] about Where to get a flu shot (influenza vaccination)
health & safety
Free and cheap resources for Seattle-Tacoma teens
Listed below are free (and low cost) resources for teens in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area. The list includes places where teens can hang out, enjoy local entertainment, or get help. We list mostly resources and activities that are free, and a few that are low cost. Seattle-Tacoma Teen Hangouts Seattle Parks & … [Read more...] about Free and cheap resources for Seattle-Tacoma teens
Free, safe disposal of unwanted medications
Protect your family and our environment from a common cause of accidents by safely disposing of medications you no longer use or need. Safely getting rid of unwanted medicines is an important part of being safe at home. National Prescription Drug Take Back Month happens every October. The event aims to provide … [Read more...] about Free, safe disposal of unwanted medications
Educate yourself on local fireworks laws
The symbolic use of fireworks on the July 4th, New Years Eve, and other celebratory events is something Americans have always enjoyed. However, for public safety reasons, many local municipalities have passed restrictive laws restricting the possession and use of fireworks. Every year there are dozens of … [Read more...] about Educate yourself on local fireworks laws
Crisis Centers and Suicide Hot Lines
Find resources for yourself or others experiencing emotional, housing, or financial crisis. The following crisis centers and phone call help lines in Washington State or across the country can provide support and access to resources for individuals, teens, families, and their loved ones who want to … [Read more...] about Crisis Centers and Suicide Hot Lines
All about cloth face masks: wearing, making, donating
As of April 7, 2020, we’ve updated this information about the use of cloth face masks based on information published by CDC and Washington State Department of Health. Anytime you are in within six feet of someone, tiny droplets from talking, as well as from sneezing or coughing can land on nearby people and surfaces … [Read more...] about All about cloth face masks: wearing, making, donating
News you can use about nCoV
Here is where to get information about cases in Washington State, along with other helpful links to information you can use to keep you and your family save. About CoV The novel coronavirus (nCoV aka COVID-19) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. It belongs to large family of viruses … [Read more...] about News you can use about nCoV
Our favorite Doo Wop hand washing songs
There's a lot of interest currently about thoroughly washing your hands. The World Health Organization produced some great posters about how to do it properly. If your hands are soiled, you need to wash them with soap and water. If you simply want to ensure your visibly clean hands are hygienic, rub them with a … [Read more...] about Our favorite Doo Wop hand washing songs
Help with substance abuse and needle exchange
In Washington State, 10.7% of all adults are in need of substance abuse treatment, yet in King County, 69.6% of adults in need of treatment do not receive it. In the City of Seattle, it is estimated that 46-70% of homeless women and men report having substance abuse issues. The following are FREE substance abuse … [Read more...] about Help with substance abuse and needle exchange
Where to find low cost medical care in Seattle and Puget Sound
If you have no health insurance, low income, are homeless, or a new immigrant to Seattle or the Puget Sound area, you have several options for obtaining medical care in Seattle, King County, Pierce County and Snohomish County through one of the following providers. Medical services in Seattle and King … [Read more...] about Where to find low cost medical care in Seattle and Puget Sound
Free food safety apps and guides
The Washington State Department of Health protects the health of people in our state with a variety of programs and services to help prevent illness and injury, promote healthy places to live and work, provide information to help people make good health decisions and ensure our state is prepared for … [Read more...] about Free food safety apps and guides