Summer is a time for fun, travel, and outdoor activities; however, it also presents unique health and safety challenges that can sneak up when least expected. Rather than get caught unaware, here’s your chance to become summertime smarty pants with some insider tips on being “in the know” before you go out and play this summer! Think of this as an unofficial playbook of summertime tips for the safest summer yet!
It’s been hot and humid so far this summer, and while we shouldn’t be complaining (winter isn’t that far away it can leave us feeling a bit out of sorts. When trying to live your best life in the summer, the weather can certainly have an impact on us, especially hot and humid weather! From our homes and cars to our brains and bodies, the heat can take its toll quickly! One of the best rules in our playbook is to combat your summertime heat trials with hydration! Water yourself, your plants, your pets and keep hydrated. Keep water with you in case you are waiting in the car, stuck in a line or just thirsty! Dehydration certainly hits differently in the summer, and no one wants to end up on the hot pavement, so hydrate well and often as a key rule for summer play!
Summertime also often means hitting the road, floating on the seas or taking to the skies. Planning ahead is crucial for a safe trip! Take a rule from our playbook and plan smart! Before you leave, ensure your vehicle, boat, bike or whatever your chosen means of transportation is, is in good working order. This should include checking registrations, insurances that are up to date, checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, helmets and any other basic safety needs. Next, pack a roadside emergency kit with jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a basic tool kit. If you already have these, check and make sure you didn’t use up all your band aids or that your batteries aren’t dead in your flashlights. When it comes to flying, check for delays, traffic reports and maybe even travel insurance for unexpected hiccups that may arise.
Speaking of travel. Summer traffic is no joke. Our playbook includes extra tips for summer driving as increased traffic volume is common during summer with visitors everywhere. Be extra vigilant on the road and pay attention to cyclists and pedestrians. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and avoid distractions like cell phones, reaching into the backseat, etc. Be aware of potential hazards like construction zones and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. Remember that heat can affect vehicle performance; be mindful of your car’s temperature gauge and pull over if it overheats. If you are stuck in traffic, or even at a stop sign, turn your wheels slightly to the outside lane, this little playbook tip can be a lifesaver in an accident.
For those soaking up beach trips and outdoor recreation, our biggest playbook instruction is to practice safe sun! Sun protection is a must. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Seek shade when you can, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. In addition, be aware of water safety; swim in designated areas, never swim alone and watch for rip current warnings if at the ocean.
Other considerations for a safe and health play by play this summer:
- Food Safety: Pack perishable foods in insulated coolers with ice packs to prevent spoilage. Avoid leaving food out in the sun for extended periods. Or pack foods that don’t need cooling!
- Insect Protection: Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin to protect against mosquito and tick bites. Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors and always check your full body after being outside.
- Pet/Child Safety: Never leave pets or children in a parked car, even for a short time. Provide them with plenty of water and shade. Be mindful of hot pavement, which can burn their feet and remember that you are responsible for their health and wellbeing (Seniors too!)
- Home Safety: Ensure your home’s air conditioning system is functioning properly. Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Turn off and unplug electrical items when you aren’t at home or away on trips.
Summers should feel like a celebration of making it through another winter, but that celebration can turn quickly if we aren’t careful. Taking just a few steps to safeguard yourself, your home, families, pets and children, can make all the difference. Taking a few extra minutes and planning may be the make or break in your whole summer experience. Let’s take the time to play well this summer, when in doubt, just follow our summertime playbook!