CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) RESOURCE CENTER Read More
Add To Favorites

Summer safety tips

Daily Herald - 7/2/2017

Summertime means family vacations, spending time outdoors and grilling. Don't forget to keep yourself safe while you are enjoying the warm temperatures.

Planning for safety is just as important as planning fun activities outdoors. Insect repellents, sunscreen and plenty of water should always be readily available before you head outside. Make a travel kit containing protective tools.

Staying safe in the sun

According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sunburns can increase your risk of skin cancer. Make sure to take proper precautions when exposed to the sun for long periods of the time. The CDC recommends taking the following steps:

If you are unable to find shade, wearing a wide-brim hat is an efficient way to protect your face, head, ears and neck;

Periodically apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 that features both UVA and UVB protection;

Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated in hot temperatures; and

Wait until cooler parts of the day to perform strenuous activities. Exerting high amounts of energy may cause heat stroke during high temperatures.

Proper grilling

During the summer, people tend to grill outdoors rather than heating up their home by using the oven. Using a grill comes with different obstacles than using an indoor cooking method. Keep in mind these important safety tips before serving.

Preheating your grill to the proper temperature is crucial. If you are using charcoal, preheat your coals for at least 20 to 30 minutes before applying meat. A temperature gauge can be a huge help in determining proper levels.

Once your grill is sufficiently heated, clean the grate with a steel brush. The hot temperatures will burn off dangerous bacteria.

A meat thermometer is another tool you need to safely grill. Ensuring your food has reached the recommended internal temperature will keep you and your family safe from serious illness.

Swimming safely

Planning to hit the beach or pool? Safety should be your top concern, especially for inexperienced swimmers.

Avoid using air-filled swimming aids for your children. Stick to life jackets, especially in deeper waters. Never take your eyes off young children while they are swimming. Make sure they are always within arm's reach just in case they need assistance.

Other tips include taking a shower and always washing your hands after using the restroom before you get in the pool. Bacteria can spread quickly in the water, so do your part to keep the water as sanitary as possible.