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From USA.gov
The U.S. Government's Official Web Portal
Vol. 9, No.10
October 5, 2009


October Features on USA.gov

1. FoodSafety.gov
2. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
3. National Dental Hygiene Month
4. Fall Colors
5. Halloween – October 31
6. Time Change – November 1

A raw steak on top of styrofoam packaging

1. FoodSafety.gov

The federal government recently launched a new website, FoodSafety.gov, to provide consumers with the latest on food recalls, safe food handling tips, and more!

Featuring information from all federal agencies that deal with critical food and food safety information, FoodSafety.gov offers e-mail alerts and RSS feeds on recalled or potentially unsafe food.

Seguridad de los alimentos: consejos útiles


Pink breast cancer ribbon.2. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Every year, more than 211,000 American women and 1,700 American men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Scientists are continually searching for better ways of preventing, finding, and treating this disease.

One thing is certain—early detection can save lives! Screening for breast cancer includes self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms. Speak with your doctor to find out when you should begin having mammograms.

Visit the National Cancer Institute for more information about breast cancer, including risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, reconstruction, support, and more.

Mes de Concientización sobre el Cáncer de Seno


A woman brushing her teeth.3. National Dental Hygiene Month

Having a nice smile isn’t the only good reason to brush and floss regularly. Good dental hygiene promotes good overall health!

Good oral health practices include:

  • Brushing and flossing every day.
  • Limiting sugary snacks.
  • Getting enough calcium.
  • Not smoking or chewing tobacco.
  • Seeing your dentist regularly.

Mes Nacional de la Higiene Dental


An orange leaf on top of yellow leaves.4. Fall Colors

Beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold are starting to appear. Take a look at fall foliage hotspots, or call the toll-free hotline (1-800-354-4595), to get up-to-date reports on fall colors.

If you’re curious about the science behind the changing colors, check out this explanation from the U.S. Forest Service.


A child carrying a plastic pumpkin.5. Halloween – October 31

Candy, costumes, and jack-o’-lanterns will become more and more visible as the month of October progresses! Halloween can be a fun and memorable Fall festivity for kids and adults, but parents are urged to review safety tips before sending their kids trick-or-treating. Here are just a few:

  • Ensure that your child’s costume is flame-resistant.
  • Accompany young children and ensure that all children walk along sidewalks.
  • Instruct children not to enter homes.
  • Examine all candy before your child eats it.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

Manténgase seguro en este Día de las Brujas o "Halloween"


A corner of a wall clock.6. Time Change – November 1

Clocks go back one hour at 2:00am Sunday, November 1. The majority of the United States observes daylight time, but there are some exceptions, including Hawaii and most of Arizona.


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