Summer Safety Tips

June 19, 2019

Summer Fun in the Sun!

Tips on Staying Safe and Cool

Be pool-smart this summer

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of injury-related deaths among children under the age of five. Here are some pool and hot tub safety tips from the American Red Cross:

  • Keep children under active supervision
  • Secure your pool or hot tub with appropriate barriers
  • Remove any structures that interfere with supervision
  • Establish and enforce rules
  • Make sure everyone knows how to swim well
  • Know how to respond in an emergency

For more information on pool safety, including swimming, first aid and CPR classes, visit your local Red Cross or go to www.redcross.org.

Keep your cool on the go

To prevent dehydration, sunburns and heat-related illness during your outdoor summer activities, here are some tips from the CDC:

  • Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when the sun is hottest
  • Wear and re-apply sunscreen according to directions
  • Pace yourself – start activities slow and gradually pick up the pace
  • Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink
  • Muscle cramping may be an early sign of heat-related illness

For more tips and information on the warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, visit www.cdc.gov.

How safe is your grill?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 19,000 patients went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grilling, including 9,300 thermal burns. There are 10,200 home fires started by grills each year between May and August, with gas grills contributing to a higher number of fires than charcoal grills.

Here are some general tips from the NFPA:

  • Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors
  • Place grill well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill area
  • Remove grease buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill often
  • Never leave your grill unattended

In the event of serious burns, call 9-1-1 or get to the nearest emergency room right away.