Screen Your Skin from Sun Damage

Many consider a tan to be an attractive feature, but the presence of melanin (the pigment that colors the skin and shows off as a tan) actually indicates damage to skin cells. Exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays damages skin cells and increases risk for developing skin cancer or other dangerous long-term complications. The American Cancer Society estimates that close to 100,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed this year.
 
To protect against sun damage, remember the "Four S's" of Sun Safety:

• SEEK SHADE - Avoid peak periods (10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in our community), when ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest.
• SLOP ON SUNSCREEN - Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher at all times. Apply about a nickel-sized amount of lotion to your skin and distribute evenly. Re-apply this sunscreen often — especially after excessive sweating or time in the pool — for it to remain effective.
• SLAP ON COVERAGE - Wear wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and long pants that cover exposed skin.
• SLIDE ON SHADES - Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.

County Counts on Residents' Help
To Control Mosquitoes

St. Charles County’s mosquito control program aims to decrease nuisance pests and prevent diseases these insects transmit. Staff works with residents and contracted municipalities to monitor traditional breeding areas and apply treatment products as needed.
 
While the program will reduce the number of mosquitoes in the community, residents must take responsibility to protect themselves. The best way to discourage biting is to use insect repellent whenever outdoors. Additionally, steps to eliminate potential breeding grounds also will help, including:

• Draining areas where water stands for more than one week.
• Emptying watering cans, wading pools and containers after use.
• Cleaning clogged gutters.
• Routinely changing water in bird baths and aerating garden ponds.

Please use our online service to request mosquito treatment near your home.

Protect Your Pet Against Pests

• Speak with your veterinarian about medications to protect your pet.
• Avoid common habitat where these creatures are often found, including tall grasses, wooded areas and wetlands.
• Check your animal for pests and bites after returning from the outdoors. Common places to find hiding creatures are behind the ears, in armpits, between toes, under collars and on the belly.
• Keep your home and yard free of clutter and standing water.
• Contact pest-control agents to reduce populations in and around your home.

Care For the Women You Love

Each May, we celebrate the favorite women in our lives, giving thanks to Mom for all the care and love she’s provided throughout the years. Another celebration for women occurs during Mother’s Day week as we recognize National Women’s Health Week. This special week encourages safer and healthier living for women.
 
National Women’s Health Week promotes making simple changes toward improving physical and mental well-being. A few of those steps include:

• Getting regular screenings and physical check-ups to prevent or catch diseases before they develop.
• Developing a healthy eating plan to obtain balanced nutrition.
• Enjoying at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day.
• Establishing a support network to foster positive mental health.
• Practicing healthy behaviors for yourself and your family.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE TIPS ON PROMOTING WOMEN'S HEALTH THROUGH THE AGES.

Is Your Group Licensed to Serve?

Does your business, church committee, school or other group plan to serve funnel cakes, lemonade, hamburgers and other fare at a parish carnival, Independence Day celebration, curb-side barbecue, in a food truck or at any festival or public event? A Temporary Food Event License is required for all groups serving food to the public in St. Charles County. Whether you’re selling or giving away the products, this permit helps ensure safe and sanitary operations.
 
A St. Charles County Temporary Food Event License fee is $50 if requested more than 48 hours prior to the event. Fees may be waived for non-profit and civic organizations (excluding social and country clubs) if permits are obtained at least 48 hours prior to the event. Documentation of tax-exempt status must be submitted with the permit application. For-profit and non-profit entities requiring an expedited permit (those applications received within 48 hours of the event opening) must pay a fee of $60.
 
Before applying for this license, applicants should determine the following:

1. Who will manage the booth operations? This person must complete Food Safety certification.
2. What is the complete menu of products to be offered – including all ingredients, condiments and any beverages?
3. What is the structure of the booth?
4. How will the group maintain hot and cold product temperatures (before, during and after preparation)?
5. What equipment will be required to prepare the product? This step must include a hand-washing station element.
6. How will foods be transported and stored?
7. Where and how will clean up of preparation equipment be completed?

Please call 636-949-1800 if you have questions or need assistance in completing your application.