Summertime Safety Tips
According to Stanford researchers, summers are only going to get hotter. So, before you break out the kiddie pool or stretch out for a relaxing backyard tan - check out these summer safety tips to protect you and your family until the leaves start to turn.
Lessons from the Lifeguard
Just because you've seen every episode of Baywatch does not make you a water safety expert, and it certainly doesn't mean you know how to perform mouth-to-mouth (the kind the Hoff did on the beach, not off). All joking aside, being over-confident of your water safety skills or First Aid training can leave you in a very dangerous situation. Play it safe and brush up on your First Aid skills. Check out the American Red Cross website to find an emergency training course near you.
Feeling Hot, Hot Hot?
If not dealt with, that icky so-hot-you-want-to-stick-your-head-in-the-freezer feeling can turn into heat exhaustion or worse, heat stroke. By the time it gets to this point, sticking your head in the freezer isn't going to cut it - in fact, about 400 Americans die each year from heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when your internal temperature rises too quickly and your body's natural cooling methods, like perspiration, begin to fail. Eventually, the organs of those suffering from heat stroke will stop functioning, which can cause permanent disability or death. Stay cool by drinking lots of fluids, wearing the proper warm-weather clothing and opting for shaded or indoor areas when it's especially warm outside. If you or someone you're with experiences the following symptoms, take the proper precautions and call for help:
• Warm, moist skin and a pale complexion
• Nausea and vomiting
Pay special attention to individuals to the signs and symptoms of heat stroke if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or you are obese. All of these health conditions can raise your risk.
Don't Rock the Boat
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, operator errors account for 70 percent of boating accidents. Do your part this summer to keep our waterways safe:
• Take a Boater Safety Course: The U.S. Coast Guard list several options for safety courses in your area.
• Wear your life jacket: The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that about 8 of every 10 boating-related fatalities could have been prevented if the victim had been wearing a life jacket.
• Check your vessel: make sure your boat, jetski or other watercraft is in tip top shape and adheres to all the safety guidelines.
Keep your summertime activities light and fun - stay safe!