While your thoughts may be to cold weather, remember that now through October is prime time for West Nile Virus. Look around your yards and remove standing water to avoid creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed.

When it comes to health, mental health and social services, we have many programs to help you.

• On Oct. 18 a special conference, Dare to be a Doctor, will introduce minority students to how they can pursue a fulfilling career in the medical field.
• Find out about BeFit Westchester and FitKids, our programs to get adults and kids in shape. As part of a health diet, eliminate trans-fats from your diet. It's a county law that licensed food service establishments may not use cooking oils that contain trans-fats.
• Don't go near near bats. View our video on rabies prevention.
• Read "It's My Healthcare" for valuable tips and tools to prepare for medical visits and take charge of your health care in general. Then, share your story with us.
• Protect your children from lead poisoning. Childhood lead poisoning can cause serious health problems ranging from poor learning in school to irreversible brain damage.
• Check out the Health Department's A-Z listing.
• Visit the Department of Community Mental Health online to ready about autism, post-partum depression, other  depression, and other mental health services.
• Contact the Department of Social Services about public assistance programs and adoption.

Important phone numbers:

• Health Department: (914) 813-5000
• Community Mental Health: (914) 995-5220
• Social Services: (914) 995-5000