Barnstable County Government

Good news Barnstable County! Compared to the last four years, the risk of picking up an unwanted virus at your Thanksgiving get-together is relatively low! That said, please exercise the following common sense public health tips this Thanksgiving: 🤧 Consider skipping the holiday get-together if you feel sick. 👐 Keep your hands washed! 👶 Pass the turkey, not the baby! 💨 Ventilation and filtration help reduce transmission! 🦃 Review food safety precautions. Learn more at https://loom.ly/krsEKZ4 #capecodgov #healthycapecod

Here in our picturesque corner of Massachusetts, we are deeply grateful for the blessings of Cape Cod—its natural beauty, vibrant communities, and the resilient spirit of our residents. As we work together to promote sustainable growth, public health and safety, and so much more... we reflect on the partnerships and shared commitment that make our County thrive. May this Thanksgiving season bring you joy, peace, and meaningful moments with loved ones. All County offices will close at noon today and remain closed tomorrow, Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024. #BarnstableCounty #CapeCodGov #WorkingForYou #Thankful

At yesterday’s meeting, Barnstable County Commissioners: 🏠 Approved $3M for expanded homelessness services & $326K for autism-friendly housing using ARPA funds. 📊 Reviewed findings from the Lower Cape health needs survey for Brewster, Chatham, Harwich, & Orleans: 👉20% increase in food insecurity since 2018 👉Healthcare provider shortages & rising costs 👉Aging isolation & mental health stigma Data-driven recommendations include expanding mental health services, advocating for affordable housing, & fostering community connections. 💻 Advanced IT digitization with a $70K ARPA-funded project to improve file management & staff training. Learn more https://loom.ly/HjWo_bs

Did you receive a letter from your local water department regarding potential lead in your water lines? We understand that some residents found this letter concerning, so we’ve put together some information to provide clarification on what prompted the letter, what it is and is not saying, and how it reflects efforts to ensure transparency and public health. Learn more at https://loom.ly/ygPqu-A #capecodgov #healthycapecod

🌊 Calling all future storm chasers and ocean explorers! 🌀 Ever wonder how hurricanes are predicted or how the ocean floor is mapped? Join Barnstable County 4-H & the Massachusetts 4-H Program for a virtual dive into science on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, at 7 PM ET on Zoom! Meet NOAA experts: 🌍 Sarah Zaunbrecher: Explore global teamwork in ocean and atmosphere research. 🌪️ Jan Ising: Discover the science behind life-saving weather forecasts. Dive into: ✅ Mapping the ocean floor 🌊 ✅ Predicting extreme weather events ✅ How YOU can shape the planet's future 🌍 📅 Bring your curiosity and register here: https://lnkd.in/emQViV5t This event is open to all—share with your science-loving friends and let’s explore together!

PSA from Barnstable County's Cape Cod Cooperative Extension: Don’t bathe your turkey! 🛁🦃 Washing spreads germs! Instead, thaw properly, cook to 165°F, and handle leftovers safely. Roast with confidence—get tips here: https://loom.ly/3btZU0Y #TurkeySafety #ThanksgivingTips

Cape Cod Public Safety Training in Action at Provincetown Fire Department 🚒 This past weekend, the Cape Cod Center for Public Safety Training brought its expertise to the Provincetown Fire Department, delivering hands-on training to enhance safety skills and preparedness. As a department of Barnstable County, CCCPST is proud to support our municipal fire departments with specialized training and resources that align with industry standards and best practices. These collaborative efforts ensure our first responders are equipped to handle the unique challenges of our Cape Cod communities. Thank you to the Provincetown Fire Department for hosting us—we’re honored to serve and strengthen our local public safety teams. 💪

PLEASE READ AND SHARE! 🔗 https://loom.ly/y9BzwlM 🔗 Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment, in collaboration with the Cape Cod & Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Task Force (CCSMRTF) has issued a press release with detailed information regarding a dead, rabies positive raccoon that was discovered on Smith Road in Eastham, near the entrance to Wild Care. While it is illegal to translocate wild animals, officials encourage anyone with information about this raccoon and its area of origin to contact Brian Bjorklund, Cape Cod and Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Program Coordinator, at (413) 537-9394 or send an email to CARE@capecod.gov. Any information, anonymous or otherwise, is welcomed and encouraged. Informants will not be penalized!

The best plan is the kind you understand! Join an upcoming in-person seminar or online webinar offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield to learn more about Medicare plan options. While open enrollment can be a stressful and overwhelming time, there are some great resources available to help you navigate the process of maximizing your benefits. Sign up today! Visit https://loom.ly/Zaa4f_g for more info.

📣 Don’t miss Larry Brown’s latest article in the Cape Cod Times Opinion column! For nearly 20 years, the Human Rights Academy has empowered Cape Cod students to tackle pressing global and local issues, from clean water initiatives to anti-bullying programs and mental health advocacy. Larry shares the inspiring stories of these young changemakers and their incredible impact. 🌍❤️ 👉 Read the full column and be inspired by the power of youth in action: https://loom.ly/tgfFdjY #CapeCodTimes #HumanRightsAcademy #YouthLeadership #Opinion