June marks the official start of summer. The weather is warm, and everyone is gearing up for a fun season. Whether you’re firing up the grill or heading to the pool for a swim, remember to stay safe and healthy while having fun in the sun.
Pools and water safety
Taking a dip in the pool is a great way to stay cool under the hot summer sun. Be sure to supervise children closely – designate an adult to watch children in and around the water at all times. If you’re a homeowner with a pool, be sure to adhere to local and state laws regarding pools and establish rules for your pool. Click here for more helpful tips about pool safety.
Bicycle safety
Riding a bicycle is a popular summer activity the whole family can enjoy. To help keep your ride as smooth (and safe) as possible, be sure to check your bike’s tire pressure and consider adding reflectors, horns or bells, rearview mirrors and headlights to help you see and be seen while on the road. Also, remember to always wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws for bicyclists. For more important safety tips, check out this article.
Grilling and outdoor food safety
If you’re firing up the grill this season, there are some risks that can be avoided with some mindful preparation – such as keeping your grill a safe distance from objects, keeping it clean, checking for gas leaks (if applicable), always lighting your grill with the lid lifted and keeping a fire extinguisher handy. For more helpful tips regarding grilling, click here.
Food safety is another consideration to keep in mind when eating outdoors. It’s important to follow safety guidelines for transporting and serving food. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has a great article detailing safe food handling you can read here.
The great outdoors
When spending time outdoors, it’s important to be mindful of some risks that being outside can present. Stay protected from sun damage by covering up when possible and using sunscreen every time you go outside. Also be sure to use effective insect repellant and check yourself and your family often for ticks and bites.
Heat and humidity are also risks to your wellness. Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and try waiting for cooler times of day to do strenuous outdoor work or exercise. Most importantly, when spending time outdoors, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
It’s also important to be aware of the local weather forecast. Thunderstorms and dust storms can be dangerous – don’t try to outrun them, be prepared to pull over if visibility is low and never drive through flooded roads.
Pet safety
When it comes to summer safety, don’t forget your four-legged companion. When spending time outside, make sure they have access to clean water and a place in the shade where they can stay cool. On walks, be aware of hot asphalt and concrete. If asphalt or concrete is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
And, remember, never leave your pet alone in a vehicle. Depending on your state, it could even be illegal. Temperatures in vehicles heat up quickly during summer months which can lead to heat stroke and/or death. For more summer pet safety tips, click here.
Firework safety
Summer and fireworks go hand-in-hand, but those impressive displays can also be dangerous. Injuries like bruises, cuts and burns to the face, hands, legs — or even death — can occur. If you still want to set off fireworks, be sure to check your homeowners insurance policy to ensure firework accidents are covered under your policy.
If you’re covered, here are some safety tips.
- Don’t consume alcohol when using fireworks
- Only light fireworks outdoors – away from people, houses and flammable material
- Light one at a time and quickly move away to a safe distance
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks; older children should always have adult supervision
For more tips on firework safety, check out this article.
Be safe and have a wonderful summer!
WBTL-0825 (6-22)