|
With summer approaching quickly, families are busy planning vacations, cookouts, reunions, and beach gatherings. They are finalizing their guest lists, menus, details for accommodations, and itineraries for fun-filled activities. These lists are sure to help provide good times for these folks throughout the summer, provided no one gets hurt. Hurt? Why spoil all this fun-talk with a word like “hurt”?
The answer is simple. More accidents occur during the summer months than during any other time throughout the year. From minor accidents like scrapes and bruises, to more serious ones like near-drownings and serious burns, summer’s range of activities puts millions of people in precarious positions with regard to their safety.
The simplest way to avoid accidents is to plan diligently to avoid accidents the way families carefully plan their adventures and gatherings. Education is key. Organizations like the Red Cross and the Y.M.C.A. offer courses in safety and first aid. Courses in C.P.R. are invaluable and not only are useful during situations like potential heart attacks and chokings, but also with summer swimming mishaps. Many potential drownings are thwarted by the use of C.P.R.
The sun plays a huge factor in summer accidents and illnesses. Sunburn and sunstroke victims are treated daily in hospitals and clinics across the country, and in nearly all of the instances could have been avoided. Sunscreen is an essential deterrent for serious sunburns, which can result in conditions leading to dermatological problems or even skin cancer.Don't rely on clothing to provide S.P.F. protection! Most clothing isn't made with the correct fibers to prevent the sun's rays from reaching the skin. It is also advisable to wear sunscreen on cloudy or hazy days.
Dehydration is another major reason for trips to emergency rooms during summer months. It is imperative for people to keep themselves well-hydrated—especially children and the elderly—and water is the beverage of choice. The body needs lots of extra water during hot weather as fluids are depleted more frequently through sweating. Drinking eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water on a daily basis is recommended year-round. Even more is required during the summer months, and especially before, during, and after any strenuous activities. Make a habit of carrying a small portable cooler filled with containers of water in your car. This will ensure no risk of dehydration and curb the temptation to fill up on carbonated and sugary drinks instead.
Summer gatherings are noted for being among the highest rated incidents of food poisonings. Improperly stored and improperly chilled foods--often left open to the heat and the air for long periods of time--are typically the culprits. Food needs to be refrigerated if not being used immediately. And no foods should be left in direct sunlight--especially anything containing meat or milk products. There are many innovations for prolonging the life of picnic foods. Some food storage options come with special compartments for ice or freezer packs. If these aren't readily available, move the food inside and keep chilled until ready to serve. Keep picnic food in iced coolers until it is time to eat. Food poisoning symptoms often come on suddenly, manifesting as severe flu symptoms. If you think you or anyone with you is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention at once.
A well-stocked first aid kid is a must-have at all times of the year. However, it is an excellent idea to inventory and re-stock items before the beginning of summer. Band-aids in several sizes are recommended. Gauze pads and adhesive tape are good for more serious cuts, and especially for burns. Antibiotic ointment is mandatory, as is antiseptic. Antiseptic wipes are the handiest form to stock, and they last quite awhile.
Syrup of Ipecac is necessary in the event of accidental poisoning. However the National Poison Control Hotline recommends calling a hotline or emergency room first, before administering ipecac to induce vomiting. The Consumer Product Safety Council runs a hotline that dispenses information regarding poisonings at 1-800-638-1771. Their teletype service may be reached at 1-800-638-8270.
Mouth dams are recommended for first aid kits, and are used in the administering of C.P.R. They are especially useful if one does not know the victim.Firefighters and rescue workers implement their use as well.
It is imperative that all households keep a clearly written, updated list of local telephone numbers for police, fire, and ambulance by the phone. Make certain that trees, bushes, or flowers aren't covering the street numbers on your home. And find out if 911 is an emergency calling option in your community. This is an important time-saver should the occasion arise and emergency personnel need to be summonsed.In homes with swimming pools, a portable phone or cell phone should be present at the pool at all times, along with a posted copy of these same telephone numbers. In incidents of accidental injury, seconds count. Not having to run for a phone or hunt for numbers may help to save lives. Never allow guests to swim alone, and make pool rules visible and clearly written for all to see. Children must never be left unsupervised in or near a swimming pool--not even for a moment.
Babysitters should be made aware of the emergency telephone numbers and where they are posted. On a babysitter's list be sure to include your telephone number and street address, as they won't be second nature to him or her--especially in the event of an emergency. In addition to this information, always leave phone numbers where you may be reached and the number of a close neighbor or friend who could step in for you during your absence. In homes with swimming pools, it is best not to allow swimming while children are in the care of a babysitter, unless he or she is certified in swimming and lifesaving techniques by the American Red Cross or the Y.M.C.A.
Summer safety should be taken even more seriously than the preparations for enjoying the sun and fun. Years from now summer memories will include snapshots of warm gathering and good times. Don’t allow these precious gifts to be marred by avoidable accidents.
| 
