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th ei fp .c a Th e IF P -H al to n H ill s | T hu rs da y, D ec em be r 6, 20 18 | 8 HaltonHighlights December2018 Reduce your holiday waste with these helpful tips This page has been donated by this newspaper to communicate important information to Halton residents at no cost to taxpayers. Small actions can make a big difference in reducing community waste. Here are some tips to help you reduce, reuse and recycle this season and all year round: • Place paper or cardboard with food residue (for example: paper plates, coffee cups, napkins) in the Green Cart. • Place tissue paper (no tape or confetti) in the Green Cart. • Rinse, clean and dry all plastic materials (for example: plastic bags, overwrap, dinnerware and food containers) before placing them in the Blue Box. • Reuse items like gift bags, ribbons and bows. • Donate items like clothing, toys and books in good condition to reuse centres to support local charities. Visit halton.ca/waste or download the OneHalton app to learn more about Halton's waste management programs, including curbside collection tips and acceptable items. Be prepared for emergencies On November 29, the Region and its local partners tested our emergency plans with an exercise that simulated a severe weather event. Regular emergency exercises help us improve our response and ensure Halton's essential services are available when you need themmost. We all have a role to play in keeping our community safe, and I encourage you to take precautions that can help protect your family this winter. You can prepare for severe weather or any emergency by following three simple steps: Know the risks: identify anything that might cause or contribute to an emergency. Make a plan: ensure your household knows what to do during and after an emergency. Get a kit: assemble the essential items you would need to stay safe and healthy for 72 hours. For more information about emergency preparedness, visit halton.ca. Keeping you informed by highlighting what makes Halton a great place to live. Gary Carr, Regional Chair Stay safe and healthy this winter It's important to practice safe behaviours on the road, at home and in the community. As temperatures drop and weather conditions change, here are some helpful tips that you can follow to keep our community safe and healthy. ONTHE ROAD Winter weather can make the roads more hazardous, so remember to slow down and drive carefully during poor weather conditions. Never drive impaired--instead, arrange for a car service or a designated driver, or take transit to get home safely. If you think you see an impaired driver, call 911. AT HOME Plan ahead to prevent falls around your home. Clear snow and ice from all walkways and steps, and use salt or sand on icy surfaces. If you're preparing any holiday meals, follow these four steps to avoid foodborne illness: clean, separate, cook and chill. IN THE COMMUNITY Meetings at Halton Region 1151 Bronte Rd., Oakville, L6M 3L1 Visit halton.ca for full schedule. December 19 9:30 a.m. Regional Council Please contact us as soon as possible if you have any accessibility needs at Halton Region events or meetings. Flu viruses are more common during the fall and winter months. Protect yourself and others by getting your annual flu shot. You can visit your doctor, local pharmacy or walk-in clinic (children under five must visit their doctor). You can also reduce the spread of germs by washing your hands with soap and water often or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.