Contributed

Local residents can get a variety of free health services, including flu shots, blood-pressure checks, and screenings for osteoporosis and cholesterol, at the 37th annual Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Free Health Fair on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott Hotel, 555 McMurray Road in Buellton.

The health fair’s free services include:

  • Seasonal flu shots (first-come, first -vaccinated for those 18 and older and not pregnant)
  • Osteoporosis screenings using ultrasound technology (first-come, first-tested; includes results print-out)
  • Screenings for total cholesterol and glucose (no fasting required; available to first 150 attendees)
  • Blood pressure checks

One popular feature of the annual event is the professional fitting of both child and adult safety helmets, which are sold at a steeply discounted $10.

The event is also an opportunity to meet SYVCH Auxiliary’s certified pet therapy dogs and their handlers and watch CPR demonstrations.

Those attending can explore more than 40 exhibitors and display booths, receive free information about SYVCH departments including Advanced Imaging, Nutrition, Surgical Services, Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Physicians Clinic, and learn about other services offered at the hospital.

At the 2018 Health Fair, Gustavo Martinez received his free flu vaccine.

Free refreshments are served throughout the Health Fair. Plus, attendees can register and be present to win prize drawings of 30 gift bags filled with healthy, fun items given away every half hour throughout the event.

New this year is a demonstration by Cottage Health Trauma Services on “Stop the Bleed,” a nationwide effort to teach civilians how to stop uncontrolled bleeding and save lives during emergency situations.

Also new this year, a community blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with advance appointments recommended by calling toll-free 1-877-258-4825 or registering online at www.blood4life.org (code 1942).

The SYVCH Health Fair is staffed by hospital team members, volunteers from the hospital’s auxiliary and the SYVCH Foundation Board of Directors, all coordinated and hosted by Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation.

For more information, visit www.cottagehealth.org/SYVHealthFair