How to Make Blessing Bags in New Mexico: Safe Food, Water and Weather Tips

Pick shelf stable foods, which are safe at room temperature, like jerky, canned foods and foods in pouches. Skip cans that are bulging, leaking, swollen 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 in hot weather. USDA says to store shelf stable food in a cool, dry place, best below 85 degrees, and to avoid over 100 degrees for canned goods. 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 cool places like public libraries. Muscle cramps, headaches, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care right away.

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

CDC suggests a hat, mittens or gloves, and something to cover the mouth and nose. Dry socks help keep toes warm. Shivering, confusion, clumsy hands, slurred speech or drowsiness are signs of hypothermia, which is a medical emergency.

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

Write a small card that says: dial 211 for help. Outside Albuquerque, call the homeless help line at 505 772 0547. In Albuquerque, Gateway West is open 24 hours at 505 839 9193. Add 988 for crisis support.

Official page: nmceh.org/coordinated-entry-system