While summer is winding down, Health Canada is warning people not to let their guard down when it comes to food safety.

Darren Leyte, with Health Canada, says people need to take care during warmer weather. When the mercury rises, he says cases of foodborne illness trend upwards across the country.

Those most at risk are the young, old, and those with compromised immune systems. Even if they’re eating the same food, an adult may avoid falling ill, while a child may succumb to severe illness.

Some key points, Leyte says, are ensuring that foods are prepared and kept at the proper temperature. Also, when cooking with raw meat, be sure to use a meat thermometre, which he says is not as common a practice in Canada. However, it’s the only way to ensure you’re cooking your meat to the proper temperature to kill off any present bacteria.

Leyte says people also tend to leave food exposed for long periods of time during the summer, allowing bacteria to proliferate.

Properly storing your food, and preparing it with care will help avoid illness.

More information on proper food safety is online at www.healthycanadians.gc.ca.