Simple tips to stay safe all summer long

Summer means fun outdoors! But with all of the warm-weather fun comes a risk for injuries. Here are some tips for avoiding some of the most common reasons for summertime ER visits:

Bicycles. Bicycle safety is crucial for both adults and children. Wearing helmets, following traffic rules, using proper hand signals, and ensuring visibility with reflective gear are essential practices. By prioritizing safety and practicing responsible cycling, we can create a safer environment for everyone on the roads.

Water: Make sure there is plenty of supervision around water and that small children don’t go out into the water by themselves. Make sure everyone wears a life jacket any time they’re out on the water. Don’t jump into a lake or pond where the water is murky without knowing what’s underneath. Take a few minutes to review these safety tips from the American Red Cross.

Insect bites/stings: Avoiding insect bites and stings during the summer is key to enjoying outdoor activities. Use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and avoid areas with high insect activity. If bitten or stung, clean the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress, and use over-the-counter remedies like antihistamine creams or pain relievers for relief. Seek medical attention for severe reactions or allergies. Review these safety tips if you will be anywhere with mosquitoes or ticks.

Sunburn: The best way to prevent sunburn is to wear long sleeves, long pants, and a hat. If you have children less than six months, they shouldn’t be exposed to the sun at all. If you’re going to be outside, wear sunblock, and put it on before going outside. It’s not as effective if you put it on after you’ve already been outdoors for a while.

Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is difficult to detect, but if you notice a child who was sweating now isn’t and is acting lethargic, get them into the shade and get fluids in them. And be aware it can happen even in the water. Once you see the signs, move quickly. Get them out of the sun and give them fluids.

Dehydration: Dehydration is most common in the heat of the day, especially when it’s humid. The common symptoms are dizziness, headache, and fatigue. You can even pass out if it’s significant. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside, make sure everyone has plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine. If you are picnicking, include fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet. Examples include watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries, oranges, lettuce, and celery.

Stay safe and have fun all summer long!