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Tips to Enjoy Your Summer Safely

Summer is a fun time for children and adults - the warm temperatures mean more time spent outdoors at picnics, pools and playgrounds. However serious injuries can occur during these activities if precautions are not taken. Here are a few tips for staying safe this summer.

• Children and pets should not be left alone in the car for any length of time. According to the National Safe Kids Program when outside temperatures are 83 degrees, the interior of a car with its windows down two inches, can reach 109 degrees in only 15 minutes. Cars with dark-colored interiors heat up even faster – those with black interiors can reach over 190 degrees in just a few minutes. Also remember to check the temperature of vinyl or leather seats and other surfaces (including seat belt hooks) before getting into the car to avoid burning exposed skin.
  
• To beat the heat on days when the temperature rises, avoid working out or doing other intense outdoor activities for longer then 15 minutes. Try to schedule any strenuous activities before 10:00 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m., when the sun is less intense. If you must be outside, keep hydrated by drinking 5 to 9 ounces of water every 20 minutes. On hot days wear light-colored and light-weight clothing which will help keep you cooler for a longer period, since light colors don’t absorb the sun’s rays as quickly as dark clothing does. Stay alert for signs of heat sickness – symptoms include dizziness, headache, nausea, fainting, flushed skin and body temperatures of 104 degrees. If you become ill, sit in the shade or in air-conditioning and sip on a cool drink until your body temperature lowers. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor.
  
• According to the American Red Cross, each year over 4,000 people drown and thousands more are injured in residential swimming pool accidents. Drowning is the fourth leading cause of injury-related death in the U.S. Safety precautions can go a long way in reducing these statistics. Young children should only be allowed to use the pool under close adult supervision. A fence that is at least five feet high should be built around the perimeter of the pool. Gates should be self-latching and self-closing so that young children can’t enter the pool area by themselves. Steps and ladders should be secured against the side of in-ground pools to help avoid falls, and they should be taken down when the pool is not in use. A first-aid kit, rescue equipment and a telephone should be kept next to the pool in case an accident occurs.
  
• According to The Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 900 people are killed and 570,000 are injured in bike accidents each year. To avoid injuries, carefully look over the bike before beginning your ride. Check to see that the tires are properly inflated, the brakes are working properly and the bike chain is securely attached to the bike. Cyclists who ride their bikes in the evening or at night should make sure their bike has reflectors and lights so that cars can easily see them. A helmet, approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, should always be worn when riding. In Pennsylvania children age 12 and under must wear a bike helmet.
  
• For many, summer just wouldn’t be complete without barbecues and picnics. Unfortunately improper use of grills are responsible for thousands of fires and injuries each year. Grill only in an open space to reduce the risk of injuries and fire. Keep the grill away from siding and overhanging roofs. Before lighting the grill, check that all hoses are attached and after grilling check that all valves are completely turned off. Never use gasoline to start charcoal grills – use starter fluids which are designed for charcoal grills. Soak the coals in water to thoroughly cool them before throwing them out. If you do get burned, run cool water over the burn for at least 15 minutes. For serious burns seek medical attention immediately.
  
• Each year over 200,000 children are seriously injured in playground accidents, the majority caused by falls. Before allowing children to play, look over the equipment to ensure it is properly maintained. All equipment should be securely anchored to the ground or to support beams. Be aware of potential hazards including small openings between 3 ½" and 9", open "s" hooks, which are often found on swings, and protruding hardware and ropes which can cause serious injuries, including strangulation. Soft materials such as mulch, sand or gravel that is at least six inches thick should be underneath and around playground equipment to cushion falls. Children should be taught the correct way to use the equipment and the importance of using equipment only in the way it is intended should be stressed.