July 2014 

Better together Moda Health header
 better together 3 series   
 
We'll find a way to better health, together. Moda Health, in partnership with your organization, aims to promote healthy lifestyle choices and encourage you to make the most of your healthcare benefits. The journey to health is a lifelong journey. It's all about simple, everyday steps -- becoming more involved in your health, taking more accountability for making knowledgeable healthcare decisions and pursuing a balanced, healthy lifestyle.  

July is UV Safety Month! 

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the main cause. UV damage can also cause wrinkles, blotches and spots on your skin.

 

Take steps today to protect your skin:

  • Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
  • Apply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating
  • Cover up with long sleeves and a hat
  • Check your skin once a month for changes
  • Do not burn
  • Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths
  • See your primary care provider each year for a skin exam
Source: skincancer.org/prevention 
Need quick advice?

Worried about a non-urgent health issue? The friendly nurses on the  Nurse Advice Line can help, 24 hours a day. Just call toll-free at 866-321-7580 for guidance on:

  • Basic health conditions and symptoms
  • Treatment for minor injuries and burns
  • Home cold and flu remedies
  • When to visit your doctor
Illegal fireworks

Here is a quick rundown on what is legal and illegal in Oregon this Fourth of July season.

 

Legal fireworks: Cone fountains, cylindrical fountains, flitter sparklers, ground spinners, illuminating torches and other similar items. Novelty items: Only those that make smoke, ash or a small noise, such as smoke bombs, party poppers and snakes.

 

Illegal fireworks: Fireworks that explode, fly into the air or travel more than 6 feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air. These pose a major risk to life and property. You may turn in illegal fireworks at any fire station. No citations or fines are issued to people turning these in.

 

In an emergency, please call 9 - 1 - 1. For more information, visit portlandoregon.gov/fire/fireworks or call 503-823-3700.  

Travel Safety

If you decide to travel this summer, be prepared with an emergency roadside kit. You can assemble these items yourself or purchase a kit online - the American Red Cross offers a good one.

 

Here are a few basic items to include. For a full list, visit DMV.org: 

  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire chains
  • Fuses and fluids (such as motor oil) for your car
  • Pliers, screwdrivers and a wrench
  • Warm blanket, gloves and boots
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Road flares
  • Electrical and duct tape
  • WD-40
  • Knife
  • Bright cloth or emergency road sign

Source: dmv.org/how-to-guides/emergency-kit.php

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