As Tennesseans enjoy the summer months with outdoor activities, travel, and time with family, the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) encourages all residents to take advantage of the department’s health education services to stay healthy, informed, and safe.
TDH provides a wide range of health education programs across the state, available through local health departments and regional offices. Services include chronic disease prevention, nutrition counseling, tobacco cessation support, reproductive health education, physical activity promotion, and more. These programs are designed to equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed health decisions.
“We’re committed to empowering Tennesseans with accurate, accessible, and practical health information,” said Danielle McHaney, Public Health Educator, “Health education plays a vital role in disease prevention and long-term wellness, and our team is here to help.”
Summer Health Education Tips
While enjoying summer activities, TDH encourages everyone to keep these key health tips in mind:
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during outdoor activities. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
• Protect Against Heat-Related Illness: Take breaks in the shade or indoors, wear lightweight clothing, and never leave children or pets in hot vehicles.
• Prevent Mosquito and Tick Bites: Use EPA-registered insect repellents, wear long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas, and check for ticks after outdoor activity.
• Practice Safe Swimming: Swim in designated areas with supervision, avoid swallowing pool or lake water, and never swim alone.
• Be Food Safe: Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot when picnicking or grilling, and wash hands often when handling food outdoors.
Health education staff are also available to provide presentations to schools, workplaces, community groups, and other organizations on a variety of public health topics.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about health education resources, contact your local health department or visit www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/localdepartments.html
