Ten Tips…for a safe summer

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and have fun. Make sure you take steps to avoid illness or injury this year:

Avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke by staying hydrated, wear loose, lightweight clothing, and avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
Use insect repellent to prevent contracting mosquito-borne illnesses.
Nearly 80% of playground injuries are caused by falls. Before letting your children play, look for any potential hazards. Limit playtime during peak sun exposure times if shade is limited.
Fireworks are a major cause of injuries and fires every year. Even sparklers can cause burns. Leave fireworks to the experts.
Water safety should be everyone’s priority, no matter your age. Never leave a child unattended near water, never swim alone and only swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard. Don’t dive in unless you are sure the water is deep enough.
At the beach, don’t underestimate the power of water and watch for strong currents and undertows.
Never drink alcohol when operating a boat, and always have enough life jackets for all passengers.
Always wear a helmet when riding a bike and make sure it fits properly. If riding a bike at night, wear reflective clothing an use flashing lights.
When riding a bike on the road, follow the same rules as motorists. Ride single-file in the same direction as traffic and use hand signals when turning at intersections.
When out walking, pay attention to your surroundings. Walk on sidewalks if possible; if not, walk facing traffic and use crosswalks. Avoid distracted walking (using a cell phone or wearing ear buds). Wear bright and/or reflective clothing and use a flashlight at night.