Columbia County Public Health

06/22/2026

Free Car Seat Check Event
📅 June 26, 2026
🕚 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
📍 Columbia County Health System Parking Lot - 1012 S 3rd Street, Dayton, WA

Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be available to work one-on-one with parents, grandparents, and caregivers to ensure car seats are installed correctly and children are properly secured. Participants will receive hands-on education and personalized guidance to help keep children safe on every trip. We will also have car seat available for those in need.

06/22/2026

On an 85 degree day, a parked car can become dangerous in just minutes. The inside temperature can reach about 102 degrees in 10 minutes and climb to around 120 degrees in 30 minutes. These conditions can quickly become life threatening.

Heat related deaths are preventable. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, even for a short time.

06/19/2026

What are harmful algal blooms?

Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, occur when certain bacteria grow rapidly in water and produce toxins that can be dangerous to people, pets, and wildlife. They often appear as green, blue, or brown scum on the water’s surface.

Avoid contact with water that looks affected. Do not swim, fish, or let pets drink from or play in it. When in doubt, stay out.

Learn more: columbiacopublichealth.org/environmental-health/hazards-toxins/ %20Blooms

06/16/2026

Life jackets save lives.

A properly fitted life jacket, combined with your attention and awareness, can make all the difference in an emergency on the water. Whether boating, swimming, or spending time near lakes and rivers, taking a moment to ensure everyone is properly equipped helps prevent tragedy and keeps recreation safe for all.

06/13/2026

Recognizing an opioid overdose quickly can save a life.

Signs include someone who cannot wake up, is breathing very slowly or not at all, is turning blue, gray, or purple, or appears ashen or cold to the touch. If you see these signs, call 911 right away. Washington State Good Samaritan laws offer protections for you and the person experiencing the overdose when you seek help in good faith.

If naloxone is available, give it every 2 to 3 minutes until the person wakes up or help arrives. For more information, please visit columbiacopublichealth.org/community-health/harm-reduction/

06/10/2026

Stay aware on the trail.

Western rattlesnakes are part of our local environment, and knowing how to avoid them can help prevent bites. Stick to open trails, carry a walking stick in brushy areas, and avoid stepping or reaching where you cannot see. Wear over the ankle boots, long socks, and loose fitting pants for added protection. If you hear a rattle, move away slowly and give the snake space.

Never attempt to capture or handle a snake.

06/08/2026

We need you!
We are looking for Mentors for our Columbia Connects Mentoring Program.
There are several ways to apply:
Contact me for an electronic or paper application at [email protected] or 509.382.3954
Or visit our website - https://daytoncoalitionforyouthandfamilies.org/columbia-connects
We are also accepting applications for Mentees at the same link as above.
We also need community volunteers to share their crafts & expertise.
No matter your interest, we have a place for you!

06/08/2026

06/07/2026

Addiction can change relationships in ways that are painful and complicated, but it does not erase the person underneath it.

Behind every struggle is a person who still deserves dignity, compassion, and understanding. Seeing the person first helps create space for connection, support, and hope for recovery.

Let’s start putting humanity first. Learn more at columbiacopublichealth.org/community-health/harm-reduction/