Summer is Here: Practice These Summer Safety Tips!
Niccole LaDue
| 3 min read
Did you know that injuries are the leading cause of death for Americans ages 1–44? During the month of June, organizations like the National Safety Council, remind us to make safety a priority, to prevent unintentional injuries. By practicing safe behaviors and encouraging those around you to identify and report safety hazards, we can reduce the number of deaths due to injury, and have a happy, healthy, and safe summer.
The National Safety Council helps spread the word and raise awareness about many safety issues, such as prescription drug abuse, slips, trips, falls, being aware of your surroundings, distracted driving, and staying safe in the heat. With summer right around the corner, use these summer safety tips to protect yourself and your loved ones from injury.
Fun in the sun – Be sure to cover up with clothing, accessories, and sunscreen, especially 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Cookouts and fireworks – With warm summer weather comes fireworks, bonfires and backyard cookouts, which are a lot of fun, but can also be very dangerous if precautions aren’t taken. Take all necessary steps to keep your fire under control and always extinguish it before leaving. Be sure to keep your fire away from debris that may catch fire including logs, forests and structures. Also, select an area with little wind and easy access to water. When using fireworks, remember that children are much more likely to experience a firework-related injury than adults. Always light fireworks one at a time, outdoors, and under adult supervision. Keep a bucket of water nearby and never allow young children to handle fireworks.
Beat the heat – Stay properly hydrated to avoid overheating and heat-related illness. Avoid working and exercising in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. Never leave kids or pets in hot cars, which can become lethal in only a few minutes.
Beware of bugs – Use insect and tick repellant when appropriate. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and remember to protect kids and pets. In addition to repellant, protect yourself with clothing and hats.
Going for a swim – Whether you’re chilling at the pool, beach or waterpark remember that drowning can occur in as little as 1 inch of water. Never swim alone or leave children unattended near water.
Practicing these safety tips, and learning more about preventing unintentional injuries, you can keep yourself and your family safe this summer.
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Photo credit: petrenkod
