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Top 10 Summer Safety Tips

Although the official first day of summer is not until the end of June, Memorial Day has passed and summer has unofficially begun. Our pools are open, backyard BBQs are ready, and the family is gearing up for another fun-filled season in the sunshine. Sometimes, amid all of the excitement of backyard celebrations, weekend road trips, and the yearly vacation to that special place, basic summer safety precautions can get overlooked. Review the following 10 tips to help you remember to always put safety first, allowing you to enjoy your summer to the fullest.

summer safety1. First-Aid Kits – Now is a great time to double check the contents of your first-aid kits. Some items may have been used, while others may have passed their expiration date. Expended and expired items should be refilled or replaced. If you do not own or have misplaced your first-aid kits, now is the best time to purchase new kits to ensure you are prepared for unexpected summer injuries.

2. Water – Keep in mind that between all the sunshine, increased temperatures, and physical activity usually associated with summer, our bodies use and require a significantly greater volume of water. The need to stay properly hydrated is paramount in the summertime. Whether it’s a small gathering in the backyard, a family road trip to the mountains, or a full week’s vacation at the beach, always be prepared with an adequate supply of water.

3. Sun Protection – In order to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging effects, you must wear some type of protection. It’s a good idea to wear a high quality sun block with a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or greater every day, but for longer durations, sensitive skin, or peak-time exposure, you should consider higher levels of SPF protection. For more information about SPF and proper use of sun block, visit the Mayo Clinic and the Skin Cancer Foundation online.

4. Fireworks – In the State of New Hampshire, the first question to answer before buying or using fireworks is: are they permitted or restricted in your city/town? Check with the New Hampshire Division of Fire Safety for regulations and restrictions specific to your city or town in New Hampshire. Then, be sure to review these fireworks safety tips.

5. Food Safety – Dining outside is one of the greatest privileges of summer. However, just because you dine outside does not mean you should forget about the importance of safe storage, handling, and preparation of food. In fact, washing your hands and staying clean are even more important when dining outdoors. While preparing, serving, or eating food, wash your hands often. Also, it is best to use separate utensils for food preparation and food service, and to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your meats have been cooked throughout.

6. Alcohol Safety – If you will be serving alcohol, it’s crucial for you to serve it safely, and for you and your guests to consume it responsibly. In order to stay properly hydrated, be sure to consume additional water while enjoying your favorite alcoholic beverages.

7. Water Safety – Along with the hot weather come numerous opportunities to enjoy the cool waters of New Hampshire’s many lakes, rivers, and beaches. It is important to know your skill limits and use the buddy system while swimming. Click here for additional water safety information from the American Red Cross.

8. Sporting Protection – Summer brings the opportunity to engage in a variety of seasonal sporting activities. Cycling, kayaking, in-line skating, rock climbing, horseback riding, team sports, and other types of sporting activities require the use of helmets and other protective gear. Now is the time to purchase new protective gear or check your existing gear for wear and tear and replace it if necessary.

9. Insect Repellant – From minor bites and stings to the most severe allergic reactions, insect bites require both proactive and reactive attention. Severe illnesses such as Lyme disease, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and West Nile Virus can be contracted via insect bites. Therefore, it is vital to use an effective insect repellant each time you are outdoors this summer. Many people have life-threatening allergic reactions to bee stings or other insect bites. If you are with someone with this type of allergy, be certain the necessary allergy treatments available for immediate use.

10. Motorcycle Awareness – After a winter of cold, snowy driving, New Hampshire’s highways seem to explode with motorcycle riders in the spring and early summer. During these first few weeks of warm weather, many of us are not accustomed to sharing the road with motorcyclists. Because motorcyclists are not as easy to spot while driving, it is very important to listen for the sound of their exhaust pipes and to check twice for motorcycle riders before turning, merging, or changing lanes. Click here for additional tips on sharing the road safely with motorcycles.

When it comes to enjoying your summer to the fullest, a little precaution goes a long way. While you make plans to fill your summer days and nights with adventure and relaxation, you should always make certain that you factor safety and preparation into your plans.

At Eaton & Berube, your safety is important to us. For additional safety tips and useful resources, please subscribe to our blog or contact us.

Photo Credit: Dschwen

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