St. Clair County

Stay Safe: Water Safety Tips For Children This Summer

As summer approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize water safety for children. Drowning remains the leading cause of injury-related death among children aged 1 to 4 and the third leading cause for those under 19. Infants under a year old face higher risks at home, particularly in bathtubs or buckets. 

Follow these top tips to ensure a safe water environment:

  • Supervise children around water attentively, without distractions.
  • Immediately empty and store containers and pools away from children’s reach.
  • Keep toilet lids and bathroom doors closed when not in use.
  • Install at least a four-foot-tall fence around home pools with self-closing gates.
  • Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills to respond effectively in emergencies.

By implementing these precautions, families can enjoy a fun and safe summer by the water.

Source: safekids.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

VNA & Blue Water Hospice Earns Prestigious CHAP Accreditation

Community Health Accreditation Partner, Inc. (CHAP) has awarded VNA & Blue Water Hospice with CHAP Accreditation under the Private Duty, Home Health Care, and Hospice Services Standards of Excellence. This accolade signifies that VNA & Blue Water Hospice meets the industry’s highest nationally recognized standards, focusing on quality care, structure, and long-term viability.

Jessica Whitley, RN, BSN, VP of Clinical Operations & COO, stated, “By achieving CHAP Accreditation, we have shown our commitment to excellence.” The rigorous CHAP evaluation underscores the dedication of VNA & Blue Water Hospice staff in providing top-tier care to the Blue Water Area, covering St. Clair, Sanilac, Lapeer, and Macomb counties.

CHAP, an independent, not-for-profit accrediting body, has been setting standards for community-based health care since 1965. CHAP ensures agencies meet Medicare Conditions of Participation and CMS Quality Standards. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Take Your Pic Selfie Museum Opens At Birchwood Mall

There’s a new business in the Blue Water Area, Take Your Pic selfie museum has opened its doors at Birchwood Mall in Fort Gratiot this month. 

This whimsical venue transforms every visitor into the star of their own photoshoot, offering a variety of backdrops that range from fancy and surreal to mind-bending and silly. It’s a playground for your phone camera, encouraging creativity and fun.

Visitors can explore over 70+ various themed rooms and backdrops, each designed to be a perfect selfie spot. The Take Your Pic selfie museum promises moments of pure joy and endless photo opportunities. So, grab your friends, unleash your inner diva, and strike a pose like never before at Take Your Pic. 

For more information, visit their Facebook page at: Take Your Pic Museum.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Health Department Warns Of Active Ticks And Lyme Disease Risk

With summer approaching, the St. Clair County Health Department alerts residents that ticks are currently active in St. Clair County and across Michigan. 

From May to September, the department monitors tick populations to detect changes and migration. Preventative actions can reduce the risk of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is spread by blacklegged ticks, which are increasingly present in Michigan. Environmental Health Sanitarian Alicia Hawkins says, “Vector surveillance efforts indicate that blacklegged ticks carrying the Lyme disease bacteria are present in St. Clair County.” 

Ticks often attach to hard-to-see areas of the body and must be attached for 36-48 hours to transmit Lyme disease. Full-body checks and proper removal techniques are essential. 

Residents can email photos of ticks to Vector@stclaircounty.org for identification. Also, for more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

New Law Mandates Mental Health Insurance Coverage In Michigan

State Rep. Mike Harris announced the passage of Senate Bill 27, a new law requiring insurers to cover mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Signed by the governor on Tuesday, this legislation ensures comprehensive insurance coverage for Michigan residents, incorporating federal protections into state law.

“Mental and physical health are both crucial for a happy, healthy life,” said Harris, vice chair of the House Insurance and Financial Services Committee. “This law guarantees that health insurance coverage includes mental health care, enabling Michiganders to access essential services and treatments.”

The new law represents a significant step towards holistic healthcare, recognizing the importance of mental wellness. Passed with strong bipartisan support, it aims to provide equal footing for mental and physical health, fostering healthier communities across the state.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Michigan Launches First-Ever “I Voted” Sticker Contest

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has announced the launch of the state’s inaugural “I Voted” sticker contest, open to students and residents statewide. 

The announcement was made during a mock election at Battle Creek Central High School, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.

Students and Michiganders can submit designs for the official stickers to be distributed at polls this year. The contest includes categories for K-8, 9-12, and general entry for all ages. Entries are due by June 30th, with the public being able to vote on the finalists in July. Winners, announced in August, will receive special recognition.

“This contest is a fun way to engage people in our elections,” Benson said. Full details and entry forms are available at Michigan.gov/IVotedSticker.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell