PIKE COUNTY, PA — The warm months are here, and the Pike County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) wants to remind everyone, especially seniors, to be careful with food.

Food delivered by county programs cannot be left outside in the heat. If you are not going to be home, you are asked to notify the driver or the AAA office ahead of time.

If you need a fan, there are a limited number available. Call the AAA at the number below.

The AAA also offered tips on having a great—but safe—picnic season.

In the kitchen, wash your hands, work area and all utensils before, during and after preparing food.

Marinate food in the refrigerator.

Do not thaw frozen items at room temperature.

For picnics, use an insulated cooler with a cold source, such as ice, frozen gel packs or frozen foods. Foods that need to be kept cold include raw meat, poultry and seafood; deli and luncheon meats or sandwiches; summer salads (tuna, chicken, egg, pasta or seafood); cut-up fruit and vegetables; and perishable dairy products.

A full cooler will maintain its cold temperature longer than a partially filled one.

When using a cooler, keep it out of the direct sun by placing it in the shade or shelter. Avoid opening the cooler repeatedly, so that your food stays colder longer.

When serving food outdoors, perishable food should not sit out for more than two hours. In hot weather (above 90 degrees Fahrenheit), food should never sit out for more than one hour.

Serve cold food outdoors in small portions, and keep the rest in the cooler. After cooking meat and poultry on the grill, keep it hot until served—at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

Keep hot food hot by setting it to the side of the grill rack, not directly over the coals.

Bring sanitary wipes or disposable gloves for service and cleanup.

For more information on safety in warm weather or programs by the Pike Area Agency on Aging, call 570/775-5550.