Eight Summer Safety Tips from American Red Cross

by Kay Pinkerton, volunteer contributor

It’s here!  Another searing, sweltering, steaming, scalding, sizzling, scorching, fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk Texas summer!

To ensure a fun and safe summer for you and your family, the American Red Cross offers the following safety tips. 

1. Fluids.  When conducting outdoor activities on hot days, drink, drink, drink.  Consume plenty of cold fluids – especially water.   Stay away from alcohol when conducting hot weather activities, however.   The risks include heat-related illness and accidents.
2. Sunscreen.   Use sunscreen when spending time outdoors – even on cloudy days.  The FDA recommends using broad-spectrum (protects both UVA and UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater. Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 1-1/2 to 2 hours. When the sun’s UV rays are strongest (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wear broad-brimmed hats and loose-fitting clothing for extra protection. 
3. Grilling.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 27 percent of home fires involving grills started on a courtyard, terrace or patio. Keep propane and charcoal BBQ grills a safe distance from your home, deck railings and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets away from the grill area.  Never leave a grill unattended.  And keep your grill clean – grease or fat buildup can cause fires. 
4. Exercise.  Early morning is normally the best time to work out, especially if the day promises blast-furnace heat conditions. For intense activities, drink a glass of water before leaving the house. Carry a bottle of water or a hydration pack such as a CamelBak®.  Replenish your electrolytes while running, cycling, or other intense exercise. 
5. Swimming.  Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for people ages 5 - 24.  Never leave a child unattended when near the water. If a child is missing, check the water first.  Even for strong, adult swimmers, use a buddy system while in the water due to issues such as fatigue or muscle cramps.  
6. Boating.  According to the U.S. Coast Guard, life jackets could have saved the lives of more than 80 percent of boating fatality victims.  Wear a life jacket at all times while boating.  Another leading factor in boating fatalities is alcohol.  Boating and liquor simply don’t mix.  
7. Helmets and safety gear.   Helmet use may reduce head injury risk, reports the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  When biking, skateboarding or other such activities, wear a comfortable, properly fitting, approved safety helmet.   Always fasten the safety strap. 
8. Red Cross classes.  Consider enrolling in a Red Cross home pool safety, water safety, first aid, or CPR/AED course.  It could mean saving a life.  

For more information on enjoying the lazy days of summer – safely – or to enroll in a safety course, visit the American Red Cross website. 

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