This May Long-weekend Fight the Bite, BBQ Safe, and Be Sun Smart

August 01, 2025

The May long-weekend can be a great time to get outside and enjoy the spring weather. You can take action over the long-weekend to protect yourself and your family by following these tips:

Fight the Bite Tips BBQ Safe Tips Be Sun Smart Tips

West Nile Virus is a virus mainly transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes transmit the virus after becoming infected by feeding on the blood of birds that carry the virus.

  • When outdoors:
    • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, light-coloured and tightly woven clothing
    • Use an insect repellent containing DEET (always apply according to manufacturers’ instructions)
  • Avoid leaving unscreened doors and windows open
  • Eliminate standing water on your property

For information on Rabies, Lyme Disease or West Nile Virus, click here: Fight the Bite Brochure

BBQ Safe Tips

At this time of year, cooking on the BBQ for family and friends is fun; however, cooking outdoors is no reason to forget about safe food handling practices.

  • Clean – Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling any meat for the BBQ
  • Separate - Keep raw meat from touching or dripping onto ready-to-eat food and use separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked products to avoid cross-contamination
  • Cook – Preheat the BBQ before starting to cook and cook meats thoroughly
  • Chill – Keep food in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it

For more information, click here: BBQ Food Safety at Home Fact Sheet

Be Sun Smart Tips

Skin cancer can be prevented, yet it is the most common form of cancer in Canada. Everyone, regardless of skin type, is at risk.

  • Limit time in the sun when the UV index is three or greater
  • Find shade when outdoors (keep babies under one year of age out of direct sunlight)
  • Take precautions during peak periods (11am -4pm) and on high UV days
    • Cover up with long sleeves, pants and a wide brimmed hat
    • Wear UVA and UVB protective sunglasses
    • Prior to sun exposure, apply (and re-apply) sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 30 or higher with both UVA and UVB protection

For more information, click here: Sun Protection

For additional information, visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/ph or call Region of Waterloo Public Health, 519-575-4400.

Media contact: Candace Harrington, Marketing and Communications, 519-883-2244 (bus) 519-501-7598 (cell) CaHarrington@regionofwaterloo.ca