Summer Safety
During the summer, people of all ages tend to spend more time enjoying outdoor activities. But, bear in mind that there may be risks associated with outdoor activities – such as the sun and heat. Here are some guidelines to help you and your family to have a safe and healthy summer.
Heat Safety
Hot weather can be dangerous, especially for older adults. Even young and healthy people can get sick from the heat. Be proactive and take precautions. When the temperature soars to 90 degrees and above, stay out of the sun and spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned areas. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and wear loose, light-colored clothes. If you are outdoors, seek shade and don’t forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Cars heat up quickly. Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are left open a little.
Water Safety
According to the American Red Cross, “Death and injury from drownings happen every day in home pools and hot tubs, at the beach or in oceans, lakes, rivers and streams, bathtubs, and even buckets.”1
“It only takes a moment. A child or weak swimmer can drown in the time it takes to reply to a text.” 1 Always supervise children closely when in or around water. Ensure that you and your loved ones wear properly fitted (and U.S. Coast Guard approved) life jackets when boating or in the water. Never swim alone.
Learn more about water competency by visiting Water Safety USA at https://www.watersafetyusa.org/water-competency.html
Sun Safety
Anyone outdoors is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. Take steps to protect skin from these damaging rays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using sunscreen with a sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher that has both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B (UVA and UVB) protection, and to reapply sunscreen after swimming and excessive sweating.
Children, older adults and those with special needs may be more sensitive to the sun and may not be aware of the sun’s harmful rays. Parents and other caregivers should protect them from excess sun exposure.
Storm Safety
June 1st was the start of hurricane season and it runs through November 30th.
Plan ahead. Do you have a hurricane emergency kit on hand? Learn more about what to include in your emergency kit as well as about hurricane hazard risks and storm preparedness on the National Weather Service website https://www.weather.gov/safety/hurricane-plan
For more information and other guidelines, refer to the CDC https://www.cdc.gov and the National Safety Council https://www.nsc.org websites. Being proactive will help you and your family have a safe and healthy summer.
Sources:
1American Red Cross. (n.d.) Water Safety. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety.html