Years ago there was a song on the radio, which went something like this, and I quote; " When you go into the woods today, you may be in for a big surprise, for today is the day the teddy bears have their picnic " To-day that surprise may be Poison Ivy, one of the Species Sumacs once admired for their ornamental leaves.

Any encounter with this plant; which is found in the Rouge; is no picnic. The leaves of the plant contain an oil called urushiol; which is transferred to exposed skin with the slightest contact; and causes a rash, which appears in 24 to 48 hours. For those people who are allergic to Poison Ivy, the rash appears in as little as 4 to 12 hours, and these people may require hospital care immediately. Several precautions, can prevent the results of any contact with the plant.

Learn to recognize the plant ... Three leaves in a triangular pattern, one with a longer stem, two leaves side by side with short stems... 0.5 to 1 meter tall. Has an oily shiny surface, which when contacted skin causes dermatitis. Plant is especially dangerous in spring and summer months Found in large patches alongside disturbed areas (ie) trails, sandy or gravelly soils, dunes and gardens.

Protection from Poison Ivy ... Watch where you are walking, reaching, kneeling or what you are touching. Wear protective clothing. Shorts are comfortable, but expose too much skin. If you wear shorts while hiking, also wear long socks. Watch where your dog explores. The oil from the plant clings to their fur. When You Touch your dog, the oil transfers to you.

Symptoms of contact with poison ivy are... the development of itchy burning areas on the hands, arms and legs. For people allergic to the plant their eyes may swell shut and blisters may erupt on the skin. These people will require hospital care.

Treatment for Poison Ivy ... There are many treatments for Poison Ivy, but I am not qualified to endorse any. We do know the First Nations People used impatiens; also known as jewelweed; as an remedy.

Everybody does agree; that rinsing the affected area with COLD WATER using enough water to carry away the oil; helps. DON'T RUB the area, it just spreads the oil, and helps it adhere to your skin. Change and wash your clothes in hot soapy water and if necessary bath your dog in warm soapy water to clear away oil off it's fur as well.

Never burn Poison Ivy, the smoke is extremely dangerous, and if inhaled may cause death. The most effective cure is avoid the plant altogether, recognizing it and wearing proper clothing when hiking or riding.

Remember this quotation ...