February 10 Summit County Health News

February 10, 2026

The last few weeks can feel heavy for many, and it’s okay to admit when things feel harder than usual. In moments like these, wellbeing is less about doing everything “right” and more about giving yourself permission to slow down, breathe, and focus on what you can control. Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s essential during trying times. Small acts of kindness, whether toward yourself or others, can go a long way in easing stress and strengthening our sense of connection to this community. What may seem like a small act of humanity, might just change the trajectory of the entire day for someone.

Our community is strongest when no one feels they face challenges alone. If life feels overwhelming, I encourage you to reach out for support, for conversation, or for resources that can help lighten the load. The Summit County Health Department is here to support you and to help connect you with services that promote overall wellbeing, health, and resilience. We do this as friends to this community because we really do care. We welcome the opportunity to be your trusted partner as we build a healthier community for all.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, please know that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Your friend in public health,
Dr. Phil Bondurant

Energy Conservation Resources

Do you want to save on your monthly utility bills but not sure where to start? Here are four energy saving resources to kickstart energy efficiency projects in your home:

  • Rocky Mountain Power's Wattsmart self-guided home assessment and the ThermWise Home Energy Plan by Enbridge Gas can help identify where your household might be wasting energy and to highlight utility rebates available to you.

  • The ENERGY STAR Home Energy Yardstick is a simple tool that compares your home’s energy use to similar homes nationwide. You'll gain insights into how your home uses energy and ways to increase your home's score, improve comfort, and lower utility bills.

  • Check out an Energy Detective kit at a Summit County library to take your home energy assessment a step further with a thermal camera, watt meter, and smart plug. And don't forget to take home a conservation kit with items to help you start saving energy today.

National Children’s Dental Health Month

Dental care is an investment in your child’s wellness. Dental care helps protect your child’s oral and overall health.
Did you know?

  • Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, even harder than bone.

  • By age 9, 50% of children have had cavities in their primary or permanent teeth.

  • Brushing alone misses 40% of tooth surfaces; flossing is required to clean between teeth.

  • There are more bacteria in the human mouth than there are people on earth.

  • Teeth cannot repair themselves once enamel has been worn away or destroyed; saliva helps protect teeth by fighting bacteria.

  • Poor oral health is linked to issues like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

  • Your toothbrush can contain more bacteria than a toilet seat; replacing regularly is important.

Take Our Latest Solid Waste Survey

Summit County is developing a Solid Waste Action Plan. In plain terms, we’re taking another look at the 2018 Solid Waste Master Plan to identify practical strategies to extend the life of our landfill by 10 years beyond current projections, through 2063.

Reaching this goal means reducing waste by about one-third each year, with a particular focus on food waste and cardboard. Your input is essential to shaping the strategies that will get us there. Take our survey today.

A Conversation Now Could Lead to a Healthier Future for Your Kids

One of the most powerful prevention tools parents have is simply talking with their kids. When parents don’t discuss alcohol, marijuana, or medication misuse, young people may assume these substances are harmless or “no big deal.” In reality, early substance use can impact a child’s brain development, academic success, relationships, and future opportunities. The good news? Research consistently shows that kids who hear clear, caring messages from trusted adults are less likely to use substances and more likely to make healthy choices.

> Alcohol and the Developing Brain 
A child’s brain continues developing into their mid-20s, especially the areas responsible for memory, learning, decision-making, and self-control. In Summit County 25.5% of youth have tried alcohol. Underage drinking can:

  • Shrink areas of the brain tied to learning and memory

  • Impair focus, judgment, and problem-solving

  • Increase risky behaviors

Talking openly about alcohol and setting clear expectations helps protect both brain health and future potential.

> Medicine Misuse Starts at Home 
Many young people don’t realize prescription or over-the-counter medications can be dangerous when misused. Opioids and other medications can cause serious breathing problems, dependence, addiction, or overdose. Parents can reduce risks by:

  • Talking about medication safety

  • Locking up medications

  • Disposing of unused or expired meds at local drop boxes

> Marijuana Use and Youth 
In Summit County, 16.6% have tried marijuana. Early marijuana use has been linked to challenges with:

  • Academic performance

  • Mental health and motivation

  • Relationships and long-term goals

> Your Voice Matters 
Kids say parents are their most trusted source of information about drugs and alcohol. Open conversations help build trust, clarify expectations, and empower young people to make safer decisions.

> Trusted Resources for Families 
Parents Empowered: parentsempowered.org
Gray Matters: graymatters.utah.gov
Know Your Script: knowyourscript.utah.gov

Early, honest conversations help youth understand the risks and make informed choices. Together, we build a healthy future, one conversation at a time.