environment

Michigan Residents Advised to Take Precautions Against Virus Transferred Via Mosquito Bites

Michiganders are urged to prioritize protective measures against mosquito bites after recent collections of mosquitos in Saginaw County tested positive for the Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories (MDHHS BOL). These are the first infected mosquitos identified for any virus in 2023.

“It takes just one bite from an infected mosquito to cause severe illness,” cautioned Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions, including using EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding mosquito-prone areas if possible, and wearing protective clothing to minimize bites.”

JCV is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitos, predominantly occurring from late spring to mid-fall. Symptoms may manifest within days to two weeks post-bite and commonly include fever, headache, and fatigue. While most individuals remain asymptomatic, severe cases can result in encephalitis and meningitis affecting the brain and/or spinal cord.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Protect Yourself And Stay Safe From Poor Air Quality Due To Smoke And Fires

Smoke and fires raging across the United States and parts of Canada have led to high levels of particulate matter (PM) in the air, resulting in an elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) in many regions of Michigan and the eastern US. The AQI, which measures the concentration of pollutants such as ground-level ozone and particulates, serves as a vital tool in assessing air quality and protecting public health.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has advised individuals to take precautions during these smoke events, especially those with chronic diseases, including asthma, other lung conditions, or cardiovascular problems. Additionally, children, pregnant individuals, and those over 65 are considered more vulnerable to the health effects of smoke exposure.

To protect yourself, the US EPA recommends limiting outdoor exercise when the air is smoky and opting for lower-intensity activities to minimize smoke exposure. When indoors, it is advised to maintain clean and cool indoor air. 

For more information, visit: epa.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Clean Energy and Environmental Justice Groups Critique DTE Energy’s Integrated Resource Plan

A coalition of clean energy and environmental justice organizations have released a report card highlighting areas for improvement in DTE Energy’s 20-year Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The IRP, filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) in November 2022, outlines DTE’s proposed strategy for providing electricity to its 2.3 million customers over the next two decades.

The report card criticizes DTE’s failure to ensure affordable energy bills for ratepayers and equitable access to clean energy. They have been accused of undervaluing customer-owned solar and energy efficiency, which can alleviate energy burdens and expedite the transition away from polluting fossil fuels.

DTE received a B- for its plans to retire coal plants, including the closure of two units of the Monroe coal-fired power plant by 2028, the report card highlights the utility’s continued investments in fossil gas. Such investments pose risks to public health and customers’ financial well-being, resulting in an F grade for DTE’s avoidance of additional fracked gas infrastructure.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Experts Stress Motorcycle Safety as Summer Riding Season Begins

With the arrival of summer, motorcycle enthusiasts are gearing up for long rides and thrilling adventures on the open road. However, safety experts are urging riders to prioritize safety precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.

Summer months typically see an increase in motorcycle fatalities. To promote safe riding, experts recommend wearing Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmets, protective clothing, and completing safety courses.

Regular motorcycle maintenance, including checking tires, brakes, and lights, is crucial to prevent mechanical failures. Additionally, riders should make themselves visible to other motorists by wearing brightly colored clothing and using reflective materials.

Obeying traffic laws, being mindful of weather conditions, and sharing the road responsibly are also essential for a safe riding experience. 

Drivers of cars and trucks should always be mindful of motorcycle riders and give them proper space when following behind, and to respect the rules of the road to prevent unnecessary accidents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

5 Tips To Keep Children Safe Around the Pool This Summer

As summer approaches and families head to the water, it’s crucial to prioritize child swim safety. Here are five important tips to keep children safe around water:

  1. Constant Supervision: Always keep a close eye on children near water. Designate an adult as a designated “water watcher” as it only takes seconds for an accident to occur.
  2. Learn to Swim: Enroll children in swimming lessons taught by certified instructors like our friends at the Blue Water Area YMCA. 
  3. Use Proper Safety Gear: Ensure children wear appropriate flotation devices, such as life jackets, especially if they are inexperienced swimmers. However, remember that flotation devices are not a substitute for supervision.
  4. Secure Pool Area: Install fences, gates, and pool covers to prevent unsupervised access to the pool. 
  5. Educate Kids About Water Safety: Teach children about the dangers of water and establish rules, such as no running near the pool and no swimming alone. 

By following these child swim safety tips, families can enjoy a fun and safe summer season in and around the water.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Beachgoers: If The Flags Are Red Don’t Go Swimming

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has introduced a change to its Great Lakes flag warning system, just in time for the start of the summer season. 

To enhance awareness of changing conditions and ensure public safety, the DNR has implemented “double red warning flags” at state-designated swim beaches along the Great Lakes in Michigan state parks. These flags indicate that water access is closed due to dangerous conditions, representing the most severe level of the flag system that was integrated in 2022.

The move comes in response to a rise in accidents and drownings on the Great Lakes in recent years. The Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project reports a total of 1,170 drownings since 2010, with 108 occurring in 2022 alone. 

Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation chief, stressed the importance of understanding the power of the Great Lakes and the potential for even experienced swimmers to find themselves in life-threatening situations.

For more information on the meaning of the colored flags, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell