Be aware that it is against the law to leave young children unattended at home or in a car.The legal age may vary, and you should check local laws if you are concerned about this. It is common for parents/guardians to hire local “babysitters” or caregivers to watch their children while they go out. It is best if babysitters have training and experience.
Canada has embassies and consulates around the world. If you are travelling in other countries and you need assistance, contact the embassy or consulate. If you visit another country, you may wish to “register” with the embassy or consulate and indicate where you will be staying and for how long. Check the web sites of embassies and consulates for travel alerts. Visit www.inter national.gc.ca or DayPlanner web site – Link #289.
Most governments discourage smoking. Smoking is not permitted in public buildings, offices and working environments, restaurants, public transit, and so forth. Sometimes separate rooms are set aside for smokers. In general, it is customary to check whether smoking is permitted before smoking. Life and health insurance rates are higher for smokers. Learn more
Some employers or workplaces provide daycare services for the children of employees.This may be something you want to check with a prospective employer. Local schools can usually provide information on daycare as well.
Governments try to ensure that Canadians are vaccinated against preventable diseases. Parents will often be asked by schools to provide proof that their children have been vaccinated for diseases such as measles, smallpox, and tuberculosis. Check with a local doctor if you need to arrange for vaccinations for your child. Local health centres and employers may also help with vaccination services.
It is against the law in Canada to carry, sell, buy, or use various illegal drugs such as heroin, marijuana, hashish, speed, and cocaine. Be cautious about buying any kind of drug product from anyone other than a pharmacist. If you are uncertain about the legality of any kind of drug product, ask.
It may be possible for you to obtain help with daycare while you participate in language-training programs. Check with the languagetraining program to find out if financial assistance is available for daycare and for transportation.
Living in Canada Portal The Government of Canada has developed a web site specifically designed to assist and support newcomers to Canada. Learn more www.cic.gc.ca/lctvac/english/ index
In Canada, some health products such as lotions, liniments, and headache remedies can be purchased at many stores. Some drugs can only be purchased with a prescription from a doctor.These drugs can only be obtained from a licensed pharmacist. If you need a drug, a doctor will write you out a prescription, which you can take to a pharmacy or drugstore to have filled.
There are increasing numbers of organizations helping with “eldercare,” that is, care of older persons.A good place to check for information on this is with local ethnic/cultural groups and organizations.