Summer Safety

As we come into summer and plan activities, please stay safe.  Below are the top safety tips for popular summer activities:  

Swimming 

1. Teach them to swim: Swimming lessons are the best way to keep kids safe around the water. Basic swimming skills are crucial for safety. Consider enrolling children in swim classes if needed. 
2. Supervision: No matter how well they swim, always keep an eye on your kids near the water.
3. Pool Rules: Set clear rules for pool behavior. No roughhousing, diving, or running on wet surfaces. Reinforce these rules consistently. 
4. Look for the Coast Guard seal: Not all floatation devices prevent drowning. For young children or inexperienced swimmers, use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Follow guidelines for proper usage. 
5. Pool Barriers: Install a four-sided containment fence around the pool with an alarmed gate. This helps prevent unsupervised access to the pool area. 
6. Avoid Drains: Teach swimmers to stay away from pool drains and suction outlets. These can pose entrapment risks. 
7. CPR Knowledge: Learn how to recognize signs of distress and perform CPR. Quick response during emergencies can save lives. 
8. No Breath-Holding Contests: Discourage prolonged breath-holding underwater, as it can lead to shallow water blackout. 
9. Secure Chemicals: Store pool chemicals safely, away from children’s reach. Follow proper handling and storage guidelines. 
10. Emergency Preparedness: Keep a first aid kit and rescue equipment near the pool. Know the location of emergency phone numbers. 

Boating 

1. Be Prepared with a Boat Safety Kit: 
1. You can’t always predict an emergency, so be prepared for any situation. Your boat safety kit should include essential items such as: 
2. Flashlight: Helps you see around your boat in the dark and makes you visible if you run out of fuel or your craft stalls. 
3. Duct Tape: Use it to temporarily patch up any leaks. 
4. Bucket: Even if your boat isn’t leaking, a bucket can help bail out water. 
5. First Aid Kit: Vital in case of accidents or medical emergencies. 
6. Whistle: A recognized signal for help on the water. 
7. Ropes: Critical for pulling someone who has fallen overboard and securing your craft. 
8. Mirror: Can be used to signal for help. 
9. Garbage Bags: Useful as rain ponchos and protection for items on board. 
10. Fire Extinguisher: Just because you’re on the water doesn’t mean you can’t have an onboard fire. 
11. Life Jackets: Ensure you have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person on board. 
2. Bring the Proper Life Jackets: 
1. Life jackets save lives, especially for kids and non-swimmers. Life jackets do more than keep you afloat. Many are designed to turn an unconscious person face up and help prevent hypothermia. 
2. By law, all boats must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. 
3. Try on the life jacket before purchasing to ensure a snug fit. 
4. Auto and manual inflatable life vests can turn an unconscious wearer face up but require regular maintenance. 
5. Look for life jackets with pockets and straps if you’re going fishing. 
6. Choose the right type of life jacket for your specific on-water activity. 
3. Check the Weather Beforehand: 
1. Warm, sunny days are ideal for boating, but storms can roll in unexpectedly. 
2. Watch for varying gusts of wind and choppy water, which are signs of an approaching storm. 
3. Even on warm spring days, the water may still reflect winter temperatures. 
4. Don’t Overload the Boat with People or Equipment: 
1. Follow the boat’s weight capacity guidelines to prevent instability. 
2. Distribute weight evenly to maintain balance and avoid tipping. 
3. Overloading can lead to accidents and capsizing. 
5. Check for Harmful Fumes: 
1. Carbon monoxide (CO) can accumulate on boats, especially near exhaust outlets. 
2. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid swimming near exhaust areas. 
3. Install CO detectors and educate passengers about the risks. 
6. Use Common Sense on the Water: 
1. Don’t drink and boat! Drunk boating is drunk driving.
2. Follow navigation rules, avoid reckless behavior, and maintain a safe speed. 
3. Stay alert and aware of other vessels, swimmers, and obstacles. 
4. Avoid distractions like texting while operating the boat. 
5. Be aware of boat traffic and never swim in a busy channel.
7. Follow Proper Anchoring Procedures: 
1. Anchor securely to prevent drifting. 
2. Use the appropriate type and length of anchor line for the water depth. 
3. Know how to set and retrieve the anchor properly. 
8. Follow Proper Docking Procedures: 
1. Approach the dock slowly and at a controlled speed. 
2. Use fenders to protect your boat during docking. 
3. Secure the boat properly to prevent drifting away from the dock. 

Remember, safety is paramount when enjoying your time on the water! 

Camping

1. Share your plan with a friend or family member in case of emergency: Always inform someone about your camping trip details, including your destination, expected return time, and emergency contacts.
2. Prepare for the Environment: Research the weather conditions and terrain of your camping location. Pack appropriate clothing and gear.
3. Bring the Right Equipment: Ensure you have essential camping gear, including a first aid kit, proper footwear, and a reliable tent.
4. Maintain Your Fire Safely: Follow campfire safety guidelines. Keep fires small, never leave them unattended, and make sure your fire is completely extinguished after you’ve finished your s’mores, of course!
5. Wildlife Safety: Learn about local wildlife and their behavior. Store your food securely to keep wildlife away.
6. Consider the Pest Situation: Minimize bug bites by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
7. Water Safety and Purification: Bring at least two liters of drinking water per person per day. Stay hydrated and know how to purify water from natural sources.

Remember, even in remote conditions, avoid going completely alone on a camping trip. Safety is key!

Grilling

1. Clean Your Grill: Scrub the grill clean before use. If you don’t have access to a faucet, carry bottled water, soap, and paper towels.
2. Defrost Safely: Thaw frozen beef, poultry, or fish in the refrigerator, cold water, or a microwave oven. Cook immediately after thawing.
3. Pick A Safe Area: Always grill outside and away from structures and tree branches. Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area. And never leave your grill unattended.
4. Avoid Cross-contamination: Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables.
5. Check Internal Temperatures: Use a food thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures:
   1. Whole cuts of meat: 145°F (with a three-minute rest time)
   2. Fish: 145°F
   3. Ground meats: 160°F
   4. Egg dishes: 160°F
   5. Poultry (ground or whole): 165°F
6. Thoroughly Cook Frozen Meat: Treat frozen products as raw food and cook them thoroughly.
7. Use Food Thermometers Correctly on Burgers: Insert the thermometer through the side of the patty until the probe reaches the center.
8. Beware of the Danger Zone: Bacteria multiply rapidly between 40°F and 140°F (the Danger Zone). Consume or refrigerate perishable food within two hours (one hour in temperatures of 90°F and above).
9. Store Leftovers Properly: Divide leftovers into smaller portions and place them in shallow containers in your refrigerator or cooler.
10. Keep It Cool: Pack coolers with ice bags, gel packs, or frozen water bottles. Monitor that food stays chilled at 40°F or below.

Riding Bicycles 

1. Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet when riding a bike. It’s the most important safety gear to protect your head in case of a fall or collision. 
2. Choose the Right Bike for the Ride: Different bikes serve different purposes. Road bikes, hybrid bikes, and comfort bikes are best for road use, while mountain bikes and gravel bikes are ideal for off-road cycling. 
3. Check Your Bike Before You Ride: Regularly inspect your bicycle. Ensure that the chain, derailleurs, and brakes are in good condition. These parts are essential for safe and dependable operation. 
4. Check the Weather Forecast Before Riding: Slippery roads and heavy winds can make for a dangerous ride. Avoid cycling in bad weather conditions. Always check the forecast before heading out. 
5. Make Yourself Visible Both Day and Night: 
1. Wear bright or reflective clothing during the day. 
2. Use lights and reflectors on your bike when riding at night to improve visibility. 
6. Obey Traffic Lights and Signs: Treat your bike like any other vehicle on the road. Follow traffic rules, stop at red lights, and yield when necessary. 
7. Limit Distractions While Riding: Avoid using your phone or other distractions while cycling. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings. 
8. Install Side Mirrors on Your Bike: Side mirrors help you see behind you without turning your head. They enhance safety by allowing you to monitor traffic. 
9. Keep Hydrated While Cycling: Bring water with you, especially on longer rides. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy and preventing heat-related issues. 
10. Keep Your Hands on the Handlebar As Much As Possible: Maintain control by keeping both hands on the handlebars. Avoid unnecessary movements that could lead to loss of balance. 

Remember, safe cycling practices benefit everyone on the road!