summer safety tips
Everyone is at risk any time the heat rises above 90 degrees, but the elderly and very young are most susceptible to heat-related illness.
Heat-related illnesses can cause serious injury or even death if not treated. Signs include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headache.
Move the injured person into a cool place, give cool water to drink and place ice packs or cool moist towels to the skin. If water cannot be tolerated, vomiting or unconsciousness occurs, call 911 immediately.
Safety tips include:
- Dress for the heat - Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Drink plenty of water - Carry water or juice with you and drink continually even when you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity - If needed, plan these events in the morning or evenings and avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Check on elderly family and neighbors - Make sure the elderly and those without air conditioning have a proper area to cool down.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in a motor vehicle - The temperature inside a car can get dangerously hot, even in moderate weather with the windows slightly down. Children and animals can quickly become overcome by the heat.
Use Precautions Around Water
Drowning continues to be a leading cause of death in children. Most of these tragedies are avoidable with simple precautions.
- Never leave children unattended around water.
- Always have adult supervision of young swimmers - Do not rely on other children to have the knowledge or composure for a rescue situation.
- Check gates, fences and locks around the pool - Fix or replace any defective gates that don't secure.
- Teach children to swim at an early age - There are many great swim classes given by local park districts.
Watch for Burn Hazards
Summer usually marks an increase in EMS calls and emergency room visits for burns. These usually occur because of carelessness around barbeque grills, campfires and from playing with fireworks.
- Never let children play around the source of heat - Many grills can easily be tipped over.
Beware of Storms and Lightening
Many people are injured each summer because of quickly forming thunderstorms.
- Seek shelter immediately - Inside is the safest place during a storm.
- Crouch low if trapped outside - Avoid huddling together in a group.
Taking the time to properly prepare for outdoor activities can greatly reduce the chance of accident or injuries this summer.
Gutzius, Pete. "Have a Safe Summer by Following These Tips." The Times 29 May 2011
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/guest-commentary/article_767b2fe0-396e-5922-a7d8-2d18c0b1a9ef.html
(For more about thunderstorm safety, visit the Lowell PD's weather safety page by clicking here.)