Summer is finally here once again! The weather is beautiful and warm, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and fun things that you can do with your family and friends. So whether you are heading out camping, for a hike, to the pool, or on a road trip, there are many ways to keep you, your family, and your friends safe this summer.
The following are essential summer safety tips to help you avoid injury or worse:
- Check your vehicle before embarking on your road trip – Before hitting the road, you want to make sure your vehicle is prepared for the long journey. Check the tires—including the spare—for proper inflation. Inspect the engine, battery, belts, and fluids for wear and proper levels. Test all of the lights and wipers. Lastly, prepare an emergency roadside kit, which includes jumper cables, a flashlight, flares, blankets, and a pack of bottled water.
- Do not leave your child unattended in the car – Even with the window slightly open, outside temperatures can significantly increase the interior temperature. If you see a child unattended in a hot vehicle this summer, contact law enforcement or break the window if you notice that the child is unresponsive.
- Avoid being close to fireworks – Summer is synonymous with fireworks, especially during the Fourth of July (U.S. Independence Day). However, fireworks can result in severe burns, amputation, blindness, and even death. You should attend community fireworks displays coordinated by professionals instead of using fireworks at home.
- Inspect playgrounds before allowing your kids to play – According to the National Safety Council, more than 20,000 children ages 14 and younger visit emergency departments for playground-related traumatic brain injury each year. Whenever you visit a playground, ensure the playground has safety-tested mats or loose-fill materials maintained to a depth of at least 9 inches and all equipment should be properly maintained. Always supervise your children on play equipment.
- Be mindful of children swimming – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 800 children drown every year. So whenever you are around any body of water with young children and poor swimmers, stay within an arm’s reach to ensure their safety. Never swim alone and always with a friend. If you are around water and your child is missing, always check the water first since even mere seconds are crucial.
- Beat the heat – Summertime means being at risk for heat-related illness. Remain constantly hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and take extra breaks if necessary. Additionally, always apply at least an SPF 15 sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
If you have been injured by the negligence of another party in Charleston, SC, contact Pierce | Sloan and speak with our experienced legal team today.