Precautions can protect pets from pests

DEAR READERS: During the summer, you need to check your pets closely for ticks and fleas. They are active at this time. Talk with your vet about how to keep your pets safe from these pests. Here’s what else you can do:

Fleas can lay a huge number of eggs, which also can cause an awful infestation in your carpets and home, along with attacking your pets. First, get your dog or cat bathed. Watch your pets closely so they will get the proper treatment. Vacuum your home daily to help control the spread.

Ticks should be removed carefully as soon as you see them. And have a vet treat your dog right away. In your house, ticks can live in upholstered furniture, curtains or under rugs.

Examine these areas often and vacuum well.

DEAR READERS: With all of the outdoor gatherings we have during this time, it’s essential that you are aware of food safety in the heat. Never let food sit outside in 85 degree heat or higher for more than one hour. Foods can spoil quickly and turn bad, causing food poisoning.

And when you prep picnic food, be sure that preparation surfaces, utensils and hands are clean. Never thaw food on the counter. Marinate food in the refrigerator. Never let raw poultry, fish juices or meat come in contact with other food, which could cause contamination.

Put out clean serving platters, plates and utensils for cooked food.

DEAR READERS: After a vacation to the beach, seashells are a fun memento of that special time enjoying the water and the sand.

You can display the shells on shelves or other key focal spots in your house, or place and arrange some of the shells in decorative jars or bowls. But these treasures need a bit of care when you get them home. Here’s what you should do:

A Soak in water with a bit of

household bleach.

A Rinse well and allow them to

dry completely.

DEAR READERS: Bacteria can accumulate on wooden or plastic cutting boards. After using, you should always wash and sanitize the board to remove bacteria. Here’s how to properly clean a cutting board:

1. First, wash the board in hot, soapy water.

2. Then soak it for about two minutes in a mixture of 3 tablespoons of household bleach and 1 gallon of water.

3. Rinse and dry with a paper towel or air dry.