Summer safety tips

The hot summer months mean more fun but can also mean more sun and heat-related dangers. Take the time to review our summer safety tips.

Stay hydrated

Hot weather can speed up the rate water leaves the body, making it easier to become dehydrated. In the summer, keep hydrated by drinking enough water or beverages free from caffeine, alcohol or excessive sugar.

Follow the ABC’s of water safety.

To prevent drownings, follow the ABCs of Water Safety: 

• Adult Supervision
• Barriers 
• Classes. 

Adult supervision should be the first line of defense against drownings. Barriers, such as pool gates, keep pools and bodies of water closed off from children and pets. Classes like swim or CPR can serve as backup defenses to prevent serious injury or drowning.

Never leave people or pets in parked vehicles

Car interiors heat up quickly in the summertime. The interior of a parked car can reach dangerously high temperatures within minutes (even when windows are cracked), putting people and pets at risk of serious injury or death. Avoid distractions when leaving your vehicle, and always double-check for children or pets that may have been left behind.

Wear sunscreen daily

Unprotected skin can burn quickly. Frequent exposure to the sun can lead to skin cancer, so protect your skin while outside. Practice proper sun safety while outside:

• Wear sun-protective clothing
• Lather up with SPF 30 or high sunscreen

Prevent fires outdoors and at home

Barbeques, campfires, fire pits and fireworks are hallmarks of summertime recreation. When participating in any activity involving heat or a flame, take utmost care to prevent unwanted fires at home or in nature.

Exercise safely

Staying active over the summer is key to overall health and wellbeing. When exercising outdoors on hot days, limit the risks of heat exhaustion and sun exposure by:

• Exercising in the early mornings and evenings when temperatures are cooler. 
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing (as well as sunscreen if exercising in daylight) 
• Bring extra water, regardless of the time of day.

Learn CPR

Certain summertime activities can increase the risk of cardiac arrest due to drowning or heart attack. If you are not already certified in CPR, proper training can prepare you to offer immediate help to someone in need while waiting for emergency medical assistance.

Sources: https://rogerscorp.com/blog/2022/summer-safety-tips https://www.medstarhealth.org/blog/7-essential-summer-safety-tips-for-all-ages