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Summertime is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, whether going to the park, hiking, walking through town, or enjoying the water. Though, there is potential for injury. Proper precautions can ensure you and your family stay safe this season. Here are some tips for staying safe during the summer.
Wear Sunscreen
Wear sunscreen whenever you go outside, no matter how hot or sunny! Use SPF 30 or more products that protect against UV rays that are also water and sweat resistant. Applying sunscreen throughout the entire summer can protect you from skin cancer and melanoma. Sunglasses and wide-brim hats can also prevent the risk of sunburn from the sun on those long, hot days.
Check the Weather
Before planning any activities that require you to be outside for extended periods of time, check the weather forecast. Extreme heat or potential storms can increase the risk of injury. Pack essentials, including water, raincoats, extra clothes if your clothes get wet, and snacks. Doing everything you can to be prepared for whatever activity you and your family are doing can ensure everyone’s safety.
Stay Hydrated
Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated whenever you leave the house. Dehydration can come faster in the summer due to the heat and humidity. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, not just when you are tired.
Pack a First Aid Kit
Carry a personal first aid kit to make sure you are prepared for common summer injuries. Carrying bandages, cold compresses, aloe vera, Hydrocortisone cream, antiseptics, and other essential first aid items can help treat any minor injuries as soon as possible. These injuries include:
- Bug bites
- Cuts and scrapes
- Sunburn
- Bruises and sore muscles
In addition to common injuries in the summer, ensure you pack vital medicine you or your children may need including asthma inhalers and EpiPens.
Heat Exhaustion
Throughout the summer, anyone at any age can fall victim to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke. Learn the warning signs of heat-related illnesses:
- High body temperature
- Painful, Warm or cold, clammy skin
- Fast, strong pulse
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps or pains
If you know the warning signs of heat exhaustion, stroke, or burns, you’ll be prepared to further treat and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Water Safety
Whether you are swimming or boating, staying safe on the water is essential. If your children are swimming, ensure a responsible adult and lifeguard are available to watch. Have PFDs or other floatation devices available on boats, and make sure you have strong swimmers in case of emergency. Even the strongest swimmers are at risk of injury or drowning in the summer.
Buddy System
When possible, make sure you aren’t going alone during your summer activities. Having a buddy who can help you avoid danger or treat emergencies that do arise can seriously help you in any situation.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one are injured in any accidents this summer, whether it’s a boating accident, car accident, biking accident, dog bite, or work-related, having a personal injury attorney on your side to help you navigate the legal aspects of your appeal can help you recover damages owed to you. The skilled attorneys at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt have decades of experience and will work with you to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us at (559) 900-1280 or visit our website for a free consultation.