Washing your hands may seem like a simple task, but it is your single best defense against colds, flu and food-related illness. To make sure you are washing away germs and bacteria every time, it is important to wash hands thoroughly. Follow these steps:

• Wet your hands with warm, running water and apply soap.
  
• Rub and lather hands together for the length of time it takes to slowly sing the alphabet, or 15–20 seconds.
  
• Focus on the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails and rings.
  
• Rinse well.
  
• Dry hands with a clean towel or disposable paper towel.
  
• If soap and water aren’t available, use an antibacterial hand sanitizer on both hands and rub until dry.