Author: tracygramajo

Reminder: Winter weather can be dangerous and unpredictable. Snow, ice and freezing conditions can lead to unexpected injuries and accidents. These conditions can increase the risk of hazardous travel, power outages, and health impacts, especially for older adults, children, and people with chronic health problems.

By preparing ahead of time you can avoid emergencies, protect your health and keep your loved ones safe. Follow these tips to be better prepared for the cold weather season.

• Have an emergency kit with supplies such flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.
• Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows.
• Check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.
• Prepare your vehicle with emergency supplies.
• Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater.

Preparation before dangerous winter weather arrives is critical. The best time to prepare for severe winter weather is now, before temperatures drop significantly and staying safe and warm becomes a challenge. Take these precautions to lower your risk of illness.

• Wear cold appropriate clothing like gloves, hats, scarves and snow boots.
• Be aware of the wind chill factor.
• Remove any wet clothing immediately.
• Limit your time outdoors.

If you plan to travel, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) provides travel advisories on current road conditions and weather forecasts. Travelers can easily access weather information by dialing 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or via the website at 511.vdot.virginia.gov.

Virginia’s Fuel Assistance Program, which helps income-eligible households with heating costs during the winter months, is accepting applications through November 14.

Fuel assistance provides support for:

• Home heating costs
• Furnace re-starts
• Delivery charges
• Installation charges
• Connection or re-connection fees

Find out if you qualify and apply at commonhelp.virginia.gov or call (855) 635-4370.

Paper applications are available in English and Spanish at Norfolk Department of Human Services (741 Monticello Ave.)

More program info and downloadable applications at Norfolk.gov/energyassistance

Join the Hampton Roads Chapter of Project Nana for the ‘Tee Up to End Women’s Cancers’ Golf Tournament! Swing for a cause as we raise awareness for gynecologic cancers.

Mammogram Screenings in Your Community

 

Local pet owners are invited to bring their furry friends to Howl-O-Ween, a special community event offering FREE rabies vaccinations on Saturday, October 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 830 Southampton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510.

This fun and family-friendly event combines pet wellness with Halloween spirit. In addition to free rabies vaccines (while supplies last), attendees can enjoy swag giveaways and show off their pets’ best Halloween costumes.

“Rabies prevention is an essential part of protecting both pets and people,” said Dr. Susan Girois, Director of Norfolk Department of Public Health. “Howl-O-Ween is a great opportunity for the community to safeguard their animals’ health while enjoying a festive, seasonal celebration.”

Requirements for Vaccines:

• Pets must be at least 12 weeks old.
• Dogs must be on leashes. Cats must be in carriers.
• Owners must bring their previous rabies certificate for eligibility for a 3-year vaccine. Without it, a 1-year vaccine will be provided.

Vaccines are first come, first served while supplies last.

Additional Highlights:

• Swag giveaways
• Pet costume fun – dress your dog or cat in their best Halloween outfit!

This event underscores the importance of community health and responsible pet ownership. Pet owners are encouraged to arrive early to ensure availability.

Did you know that adjusting fluoride in public water systems is one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay?

For nearly 80 years, water fluoridation has helped improve oral health across the U.S.—and the Virginia Department of Health fully supports it!

Here’s what you should know:
✅ Fluoride is a natural mineral, not a medication—just like adding iodine to salt or vitamin D to milk.
✅ It’s safe and effective. Thousands of studies over decades confirm it doesn’t cause harmful side effects at the levels used in U.S. drinking water.
✅ You still have personal choice—if you prefer not to consume fluoride, you can use water filters.
✅ Other countries use different methods to provide fluoride—like adding it to salt or milk.
✅ Fluoride in water + toothpaste = a double shield for your teeth!
✅ Local communities—not the federal government—decide whether to fluoridate their water.

🖱 Learn more from the Virginia Department of Health:
👉 https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/cwf

Let’s keep our smiles strong, Virginia! 😁💙 #OralHealth #FluorideFacts #VDH

The Norfolk Department of Health was proud to be part of the vibrant FUSE Fest at Purpose Park in Norfolk this past weekend! Our team hosted an interactive table where visitors could engage with our Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and certified Stop the Bleed (STB) instructors.

Throughout the day, we provided hands-on Stop the Bleed training, equipping community members with lifesaving skills to respond in emergencies. One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to train Norfolk’s own Mayor, who took time to learn how to properly stop life-threatening bleeding—an essential skill that anyone can benefit from.

We’re grateful to Teens with a Purpose  and to everyone who stopped by to learn, connect, and take steps toward a safer, healthier community. Together, we’re building a stronger, more prepared Norfolk!

On July 11th, the Norfolk Department of Health welcomed the community with a splash of summer fun at our Fresh Lemonade Stand Kickoff Event—and what a refreshing day it was! Visitors were invited into our colorful lemonade stand to enjoy ice-cold, fresh lemonade, served with a smile by our enthusiastic team. It was more than just a tasty treat—it was a cheerful way to connect with the community and kick off something even more meaningful: our Back-to-School Supply Drive.

The lemonade stand wasn’t just about quenching thirst—it was about filling backpacks and hearts. As we gear up for the new school year, we’re calling on our neighbors to help local students start strong by donating essential school supplies.

📚 School Supply Drive: July 14–18

We’re accepting donations at the Norfolk Department of Health all week. Just stop by during business hours and drop off these items in the designated donation bin in the lobby.

• Composition Notebooks
• Pencils
• Ziplock Quart Bags
• Ziplock Gallon Bags
• Baby Wipes
• Box of Tissues
• Glue Sticks
• Hand Soap
• Plastic Folders with Pockets & Prongs
• Wide Ruler Paper
• 24 Count Crayons
• Dry Erase Markers
• Erasers
• Highlighters
• Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
• Mouthwash (Non Alcoholic)
• Deodorant or Antiperspirant
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Body wash and Soap (Preferably Wipes)
• Hairbrushes and Combs
• Moisturizer/Lip Balm
• Cash Donations (to purchase items)

🧃 Didn’t make it to the Lemonade Stand?

Let’s work together to send our students back to school feeling confident, supported, and ready to learn.

Thank you for helping us turn a cup of lemonade into a community effort that truly matters. 🍋📓