Protect Yourself with These 5 Summer Safety Tips

  1. Bicycling Safety

Riding a bike is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while exercising, but don’t forget to factor in safety. Over 130,000 bicyclists are injured each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Injuries can range from minor (scrapes or small cuts) to major (fractures, concussions or even deaths). One of the most effective ways to minimize the risk of head and brain injuries from bicycle accidents is by wearing a helmet.

Helmet sizes can vary between manufacturers, so it’s important to ensure a proper fit. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides some tips on how to fit a helmet:

• Measure your head and try on several helmets until one fits right.
• The helmet should sit level on your head and low on your forehead, one or two finger-widths above your eyebrow.
• Your eyes should be able to see the edge of the helmet when looking upward.
• Adjust straps on both sides and under your chin so they are snug.

  2. Firework Safety 

Watching fireworks is a classic summer experience, and if it is legal to set them off in your area, it's important to remember to handle them safely. 

Almost 10,000 emergency room (ER) visits for firework injuries were reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 2023. Sixty-six percent of injuries occurred in the weeks before and after the July 4th holiday with almost half of them resulting in burns. Even sparklers can cause serious burns!

If setting off fireworks is on your summer list, consider these safety tips to avoid injuring yourself and others:

• Always keep a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Only light one firework at a time.
• Never hold fireworks in your hand or point at another person.
• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• Maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never allow young children to play with or handle fireworks, including sparklers.

  3. Swimming Safety 

A quick dip in the pool or swim in the ocean is a great way to cool down during summer. Practicing water safety in and around pools, lakes, rivers and beaches can help you avoid accidents and reduce the risk of drowning. 

The American Red Cross recommends the following swimming safety tips:

• Never swim alone. Always swim sober. Know the risks of natural waters like limited visibility, rocks or vegetation and dangerous currents or waves. Wear a life jacket tested and approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) that’s appropriate for your weight and size. 
• Stay vigilant with adult supervision or a lifeguard present. Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep a watchful eye anytime children are in or around water. Avoid distractions with cellphones. 
• Learn basic swimming skills to add a layer of protection in aquatic-related activities. Swimmers should be able to do the following: enter water that is over their head, float or tread water for one minute, turn over and around in the water, swim at least 25 yards before exiting.
• Know the signs of someone drowning and when to call for help. Know ways to safely assist a drowning person. Have CPR and first-aid knowledge.

  4. Heat-Related Safety

Rising temperatures can be enjoyable, but it also increases the risks of heat-related injuries, like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Almost 120,000 heat related illnesses resulted in ER visits in 2023, according to CDC reports. These injuries happen when your body overheats, usually because of overexposure to and strenuous physical activities in hot temperatures. 

The CDC offers the following tips to prevent heat-related injuries:

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
• Limit time spent working or exercising in the heat.
• Never leave anyone (including pets) in a parked car.
• Find cool, shady spots to rest or stay indoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids.

  5. Hydration Safety 

Staying hydrated allows your body to stay cool and not overheat. Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than it takes in and, as a result, doesn’t have enough water to carry out normal functions.

Dr. Dwight McFadden, Assistant Medical Director at Medical Mutual, explains that water is crucial in our ability to control our body’s temperature.  Dehydration can become severe and even result in a trip to the ER. To avoid this, the Cleveland Clinic recommends drinking between 91 to 125 ounces of water a day. Drinking more water when active outside and eating hydrating foods while limiting alcohol, sugar and caffeine intake can also help you stay hydrated.