More people are cooking outside at picnics, barbecues, and on camping trips. Fortunately, people seldom get sick from contaminated food because most people have a healthy immune system that protects them not only from harmful bacteria on food, but from other harmful organisms in the environment. At the same time, FSIS, other government agencies, and food producers go to great lengths to keep food safe. And, of course, consumers can protect themselves at home with proper refrigeration and thorough cooking of perishable food. We know foodborne illness increases in warm weather.
Unwashed hands are a prime cause of foodborne illness.
Whenever possible, wash your hands with hot, soapy water before handling food and after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and handling pets. When eating away from home, find out if there's a source of clean water. If not, bring water for preparation and cleaning. Or pack clean, wet, disposable washcloths or moist towelettes and paper towels for cleaning hands and surfaces. Cross-contamination during preparation, grilling, and serving food is a prime cause of foodborne illness.