Enjoy Summer Without the Risks

Summer means more people are spending time outside and staying active. With the beautiful weather and countless activities available, it's important to have fun while also taking precautions. Whether you're on the water or hiking on a trail, follow these tips to protect you and your loved ones.

Water Safety

Having a splash? Water sports and activities are popular summer pastimes, but it's important to take pre-cautions, especially with young children.

• Keep weak swimmers within arm's reach regard-less of their age.
• Swim with a buddy. Beach accidents can happen in an instant. Swimming in pairs can help ensure yoare more likely to be seen by a lifeguard if help is needed.
• Check weather and rip current reports before entering the water.
• When boating, use flotation devices that are U.S. Coast Guard approved.
• When visiting the beach, understand what the colored warning flags mean. Swim between green flags and avoid red flags, which mark zones with dangerous conditions.
• Only swim in open waters with designated life-guards on duty. If you encounter a rip current, experts advise swimming parallel to the shoreline until you are able swim back safely.

Heat and sun safety

It’s important to protect yourself and others in the heat. Here are some important tips:  

• Wear light - colored loose - fitting clothes when you are out in the heat and sun.
• Carry sunscreen, preferably an SPF 30 for daily use and SPF50 or higher for longer sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen every two hours after swimming or sweating.
• Stay hydrated and limit exposure to peak sun times from 11:00am to 3:00pm during strenuous activities. If you work outside, take breaks in the shade.
• Never leave pets or kids unattended in a car. The interior of a car heats up faster than the outside temperature; an 80 - degree day can heat a parked car to 123 degrees within 60 minutes.
• Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses.

General outdoor safety

Whether you ’re on a bike trail or grilling in the back-yard follow these recommended practices for a safe and enjoyable time. 

• Protect yourself from ticks by wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding high grass and brush, and checking yourself frequently.
• When biking, always wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a fall. At night wear bright colors to stay visible on the street.
• Enjoying an outdoor workout? Try exercising earlier or later in the day to avoid midday heat.
• Keep grills away from the side of homes, decks and tree branches. Make sure your grill is properly maintained and checked for leaks.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can remain safe and these popular summer activities.