Swim Safety
• Learn to swim. Never swim alone and swim only in supervised areas. Obey “No Diving” signs.
• Outfit everyone with the proper gear. Use U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) in and around the water, especially when boating.
• Always observe children near water and practice “reach supervision” for young children: stay within arm’s length of a child in case an emergency arises.
• Watch out for the dangerous “too’s”. Take a break at the point of being too tired, too cold, or too far from safety, too much sun, too little hydration, too much strenuous activity.
• Don’t mix alcohol and swimming. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination; it affects your swimming and diving skills; and it reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
• Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts; stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.
Sunburn Prevention:
• Protect the skin. Limit the amount of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear water-proof sunscreen with SPF of at least 15. Apply 15 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun; reapply often, especially after swimming.
• Certain medications can increase sensitivity to the sun. Check with a physician or pharmacist before planning outdoor activities.
Heat Stroke Prevention:
• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that will reflect some of the sun’s energy. It’s also a good idea to wear hats or use an umbrella.
• Drink lots of water. Carry water or juice and drink continuously, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest period of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.).
• Take regular breaks when you are engaged in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place. If you recognize that you are showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop activity and find a cool place.
Summer Pet Safety:
• Never leave your pet in the car. The inside of your car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even if you are parked in the shade.
• Watch out for fertilizers. Plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them.
• Repel fleas and ticks. Another summertime threat is fleas and ticks. Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic, even when used according to instructions.
• Always make sure your pet has water. Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they’re enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool.
For more summer safety tips go to:
http://www.redcross.org/portal/site/en/menuitem.86f46a12f382290517a8f210b80f78a0/?vgnextoid=9e7bf837443d0210VgnVCM10000089f0870aRCRD&vgnextfmt=default
