Jefferson County--Columbia Sanitary of Golden, CO recently made it possible for more Jefferson County children to wash their hands at one of the most important times -- before eating. Since handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of illness, Columbia Sanitary's donation of a handwashing sink to the Mount Evans Outdoor Education Lab is a significant contribution to public health in Jefferson County.

Handwashing is so important in preventing illness in our communities that Jefferson County Public Health Environmental Health Specialists make it part of their job to educate and facilitate proper handwashing in food service establishments, schools, day cares and other facilities throughout the County. Thus, when a routine inspection of the Mount Evans Outdoor Education Lab revealed a shortage of handwashing stations at the facility, Environmental Health Specialist Jon Vickery looked to the community for help. Columbia Sanitary of Golden, CO generously donated a brand new handwashing station, bringing the total available to three and making it possible for all 90 to 95 students to wash their hands before eating.

Columbia Sanitary's donation of the handwashing station is greatly appreciated by Jefferson County Public Health. It also serves as an important reminder to everyone to help prevent the spread of disease by washing your hands!

Proper Handwashing: Use soap and warm water. Rub your hands together for 20 seconds. It's also a good idea to remember the most important times to wash your hands: before eating or preparing food; after using the bathroom; after blowing your nose or coughing; after touching pets or other animals; after playing outside; before and after visiting a sick relative or friend.

For more information about proper handwashing, visit the Jefferson County Public Health website at www.jeffco.us/health.

For more information about handwashing stations, visit the Columbia Sanitary website at http://www.copotties.com/index.html