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Keeping Friends Safe

Four children sit in a circle and talk together.
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Food allergies can be serious. Being a friend means helping everyone feel safe. Here are four ways to help friends with food allergies.

Ask.

Ask your friends what foods they are allergic to. Take their answers seriously. Remember what they say. They will appreciate that you care.

Avoid.

Children wash their hands at a row of sinks.
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Avoid sharing or swapping food, even if you think it is safe. Wash your hands after every meal. That will help stop allergens from spreading.

Assist.

Two girls look inside a colorful gift bag while an adult stands behind them.
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Help out by thinking ahead. Are you hosting a playdate or birthday party? Choose an allergy-safe treat or a gift to share.

Act.

A boy looks up at an adult in a school hallway.
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Get help if a friend is having an allergic reaction. Look for swollen lips, red bumps or a rash, or trouble breathing. Tell an adult right away.