Mary Fortier

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the governor's office and public health officials are reinforcing the critical importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer. Regular mammograms remain the most effective method for identifying breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

For Connecticut residents who may not be able to afford regular mammograms, the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s Early Detection and Prevention Program offers free breast cancer screenings. This program is available for low income residents and those with limited or no health insurance. Services will be available at various locations across the state.

Click here for more information to find out if you qualify for free screenings, if you need assistance accessing a mammogram, or for other available resources. You can also contact the Department of Public Health at 860-509-7804 for more information.

The Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI) has received a $25,000 grant to provide free dental services for veterans in need.

The program is open to veterans living in the Greater Hartford area, but there is flexibility as long as participants are willing to travel to Farmington. 

Click here for more information and to register.

The National Fire Prevention Association is raising awareness about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries because they can overheat, start a fire, or explode if damaged or not used correctly. This is concerning because lithium-ion batteries power many of the electronics we use in our homes every day, including smartphones, tablets, power and lawn tools, laptops, headphones, and toys.

You can take action and improve your safety by knowing where lithium-ion batteries are located in your home and going over tips to safely buy, charge, and recycle those batteries to ensure you are prepared for an emergency when it happens.

The National Fire Prevention Association has put together a 3-step plan to safely use lithium-ion batteries:

1. Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.

2. Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.

3. Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you.

Click here for more information, and additional tips and tools for fire safety in your home.