Archives for August 2024

Today we want to share some important information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which was launched nationwide in July 2022. Much like how dialing 911 connects individuals to emergency services for medical crises, 988 provides a crucial support system for those in emotional distress or facing a suicidal crisis. By calling or texting 988, individuals can reach trained counselors who are available to listen, offer support, and connect them to necessary resources.

Since its launch, counselors have handled over 10 million calls, texts, and chats, providing immediate and accessible care to people experiencing mental health-related distress, including thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, and other emotional struggles. Despite this significant outreach, a recent poll revealed that only 23% of Americans are somewhat familiar with the 988 service.

It is vital that we continue to spread awareness about 988 and ensure that everyone knows it is available for those in need. Remember, 988 is not only for individuals in crisis but also for those who are concerned about a loved one who may require immediate support.

Thank you for helping us raise awareness and provide this critical information to those who may benefit from it.

As Minnesota continues to experience high temperatures and humidity this summer, it’s important to be aware of the risks of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Here are some tips from Christensen Group Insurance to help you stay safe and cool!

Tips to beat the heat

Stay indoors when it’s very hot. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Drink plenty of water, check on at-risk friends and neighbors, and find air-conditioned places to cool off.

Never leave kids or pets in a parked vehicle, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).

Be aware of who is at high risk

Infants, young children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions are at a higher risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Recognize symptoms

Heat stroke symptoms include: very high body temperatures  (above 103°F), red, hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, upset stomach, confusion, and fainting.

If you see these signs, get medical help immediately. While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke by moving the person to a cool area. Do not give fluids and cool their body with water by placing them in a cool (not cold) bath or shower, spray with a garden hose, sponge with cool water, or fanning. Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, upset stomach or vomiting, and fainting.

When you see these signs, get medical attention immediately if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour. Cool the body with cool beverages, rest, a cool (not cold) bath or shower, moving to an air conditioned room, and wearing lightweight clothing.

Seek medical help immediately for heat stroke and heat exhaustion if symptoms are severe or persist, or if the person has heart problems or high blood pressure.

For more information on extreme heat and your health, visit the CDC website or download Christensen Group’s heat-related injury and illness prevention checklist.

Minnesota’s next two election dates are coming up quickly! Primary Election Day is August 13, 2024, and General Election Day is November 5, 2024. Registering early can save you time at the polling place and ensure a smooth voting experience.

Who can vote?

To vote, you must be:

• A U.S. Citizen
• At least 18 years old on Election Day
• A resident of Minnesota for at least 20 days
• Not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction
• Not under a court order that revokes your right to vote

To register to vote online or update your registration, visit mnvotes.sos.mn.gov/voterstatuscheck/index.

Pre-registration closes 21 days before each election. If you don’t pre-register, you can still register at your polling place on Election Day.

Voting is a critical part of our democratic process, and there are multiple ways to cast your vote this election season. If you prefer to vote absentee, you can request an absentee ballot by visiting mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/abrequest/index.

Your returned ballot must be postmarked and received by the County on or before Election Day to be counted.

You can also track your absentee ballot’s status by visiting mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/abstatus/index and providing the same ID number used on your application.

For in-person voting, make sure to check your polling place details and plan accordingly. Every vote counts, so make sure yours is heard!

• Security: Creating your will and estate plan allows you to communicate important financial and health care decisions so you’re prepared for whatever the future may hold.
• Peace of Mind: A will allows you to provide for the people you love, ensuring they will be supported no matter what.
• Impact: By including an optional legacy gift in your will, you can support the places and causes you care about in southwest Minnesota.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Tiffany Barnard at [email protected] or (320) 583-0094.

Take this opportunity to secure your future and support your loved ones.