Summer is almost here and with that comes plenty of fun outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and bike rides. Be sure your adventures don't end with scrapes, bug bites, and tears with my summer safety tips:
1. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside, and try to avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM - it's when the sun's rays are strongest.
2. The sun doesn't need to be out to get burned. Be sure to apply sunscreen on cloudy days, too.
3. Be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke - fatigue, confusion, cramping, dizziness, nausea, and extreme thirst.
4. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Limit intense physical outdoor activity on especially hot days. This goes for Fido, too!
5. Never leave children or pets in the car on a warm day.
6. If your pets play outdoors on a hot day, make sure they have a shady spot to rest and plenty of water.
7. Try to avoid combination sunscreen/insect repellent lotions and sprays. Whereas sunscreen should be reapplied every few hours, repellent need not be applied more than once.
8. Use insect repellent containing DEET to keep mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects away.
9. Make sure everyone in your family knows what poison ivy looks like so they'll be sure to avoid it. But just in case, when in the forest, wear long pants, long sleeves, good shoes, and gloves.
10. Always supervise your children on play equipment at parks and clubs.
11. Inspect your own backyard play structures carefully before letting children play. Be sure everything is anchored safely in the ground, and all pieces are in good shape.
12. Make sure your child wears a helmet when riding their bike or roller-skating. Be a good example and wear one yourself when you go out on family rides.
14. Never let your children swim alone. Always be sure they are with an adult or responsible teen chaperone.
15. Empty shallow wading pools after children are done playing.
16. When boating, make sure everyone - not just the kids - wear life preservers.
17. Keep grills and barbecues at least ten feet from bushes, houses, and other structures.
18. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher on hand when grilling.
19. When grilling, be aware of cross-contamination and use different plates and utensils to handle cooked food.
20. Any grilling leftovers should be refrigerated within an hour of use.
And make sure to always have a great time!
Have a wonderful summer!
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