In this issue

Issue 7

March 1996

Healthy images at Health Canada

Health Canada has produced a 10-page checklist of healthy images to guide those who produce visual images under contract for or in partnership with Health Canada.

The aim is to provide clear and consistent direction for the way activities are depicted in drawings, photographs, film and video. The department hopes to eliminate confusion about what images are acceptable from a heath and safety standpoint, and to help everyone concerned save time and money. Outside groups and individuals should also find the guide useful.

The checklist consists of a short general list followed by lists for three different target groups: babies, toddlers/children and youth/adults. For example, the section on babies includes guidelines on the depiction of cribs and sleeping babies; pacifiers; baby gates and walkers (babies are not to be shown in walkers); playpens; highchairs; change tables; car seats, strollers and infant carriers; and breastfeeding. The information in each category is not exhaustive, but it includes the most pertinent details for preparing accurate visual images. Health Canada will update the guide as necessary.

The Health Canada photo library also recently acquired a bank of more than 1,000 photographs of various activities involving children. These photographs have been screened for the health and safety messages discussed above. These images are available to the public.

For copies of the Healthy Images checklist or information about the photographs, contact Robert Hyams, Senior Marketing and Communications Officer, Program Promotion Division
fax: (613) 952-6032.

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