Updates + Notices
Read below for updates on the agency, our projects, and our data, as well as timely public health notices or statements
Preventing Tickborne Disease in Cortland County
Ticks can spread serious illnesses, including Lyme disease, and are becoming increasingly common across New York State. Learn how to prevent tick bites, safely remove ticks, recognize early signs of tickborne disease, and understand why daily tick checks are especially important for people spending extended time outdoors in Cortland County.
Creating a Healthy Environment for Your Teen: Preventing Nicotine and Cannabis Vaping
Parents can make a meaningful difference in preventing nicotine and cannabis vaping, starting with understanding what vaping is and how to support their teen. Vaping is the use of an electronic device, such as an e-cigarette or vape pen. These devices may contain nicotine, cannabis compounds such as THC or CBD, flavorings, and other chemicals, which can impact a teen’s health and brain development. A variety of factors can influence a teen’s decision to vape, but having conversations with teens, supporting healthy coping strategies, and practicing safe storage can help to make healthy choices easier for teens.
A Warm Approach to Winter: SAFE365 Tips for Supporting Teens
Winter brings shorter days and more time indoors, creating natural opportunities for families to strengthen connections and support teen well-being. The SAFE 365 W-I-N-T-E-R framework outlines six practical strategies parents can use all season long, from talking openly about risks, to staying aware of what is accessible at home, to setting consistent rules and making time for fun. Local youth survey data from Cortland and Tompkins Counties shows that strong communication, clear expectations, and regular family time all play a powerful role in reducing substance use and supporting teens’ mental health. Explore how these simple, everyday actions can help teens stay safe, engaged, and connected this winter.
Introducing S.A.F.E. 365: A Collaborative Platform for Family and Youth Well‑Being
The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) has launched S.A.F.E. 365: Substance-Free Activities and Family Engagement, a new regional platform designed to help families, youth, and community partners access reliable resources and prevention tools that promote health and safety all year long.
Available at safe365ny.org, the site connects parents and caregivers to practical parenting guides, local events, and evidence-based programs that support positive youth development. Families can also find seasonal campaigns focused on wellbeing, prevention, and community connection.
Through S.A.F.E. 365, RHI continues its mission to strengthen family communication, reduce risky behaviors, and build healthier rural communities 365 days a year.
Hosting Safe Halloween Parties
Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for teens and families, but it can also bring risks like underage drinking and substance use. Local youth surveys in Tompkins and Cortland counties show that strong family connections and safe hosting practices make a big difference. By setting clear expectations, keeping gatherings supervised, and offering fun, alcohol-free activities, parents can help ensure celebrations stay positive and safe.
Find practical tips and resources for safe hosting this Halloween at safe365ny.org
New Youth Survey Allows Us to See Disparities
Every year since 2002, RHI has surveyed 7th-12th grade students in Cortland County about substance use behaviors and risk and protective factors that predict adolescent problem behaviors. Starting in 2023, we began using a new survey that goes beyond prevention to collect data about general health behaviors, like sleep, nutrition, mental health, and disability.