How to Make Blessing Bags in Nevada: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips

Pick shelf stable foods, which are safe at room temperature, like most canned goods, dried meats and grains. Skip cans that are bulging, leaking, rusted or deeply dented, and check for a Keep Refrigerated label.

Official page: fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/shelf-stable-food

It's better not to. USDA says temperatures below 85 degrees are best, and over 100 degrees can harm canned goods. a parked car in a Nevada summer can get hotter than that, so keep bags inside and grab them when you go out.

Official page: fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/shelf-stable-food

Water matters most. CDC says to drink more water than usual and not wait until you're thirsty. Add a note about cooling places like libraries, and that cool showers help. Muscle cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care.

Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html

Reno and northern Nevada get very cold. CDC suggests a hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf, and dry socks. Wet clothes make you cold fast. Shivering, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech or drowsiness are warning signs of hypothermia.

Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html

Write a small card that says: Nevada 211, call 211 or 866 535 5654, or text your zip code to 898211. Add 988 for crisis support. In Las Vegas, add the Courtyard at 314 Foremaster Lane, open 24 hours.

Official page: nevada211.org