In our last blog, we discussed safety tips for working in the summer heat. (Workplace safety is a big deal to us here at Gillmann Services, and we talk about it a lot.) But, of course, safety at home is essential, too, so here are some summer safety tips to keep you and your family safe this season!
Handling Heat
The hot weather makes your body work extra hard to maintain the average temperature; the summer heat causes more deaths/incidents than any other weather-related hazards. To keep yourself safe, make sure you:
- Stay hydrated — Good ol’ H2O is the best! Drink water regularly, don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol. Water-laden fruits and veggies (watermelon, peaches, spinach) are also great for staying hydrated.
- Stay cool — Keep your living space well air-conditioned. Cover the windows with heavy drapes during the hottest part of the day. Use an attic fan to clear the hot air out of the house. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Enjoy cool showers and baths. All these things help your body combat the heat and maintain the correct temperature.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity — If you can, avoid an overload of physical exertion during the hottest part of the day. If you are physically active outdoors during the day, make sure to take regular rests in the shade and give your body a chance to cool down.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion— It’s essential to be familiar with the symptoms and know how to treat them. Some of the indications of heat exhaustion include:
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Clammy, pale skin
- Extreme sweating
If you or a family member begins to show these signs, rest in the shade and rehydrate with electrolytes (Gatorade is a great option). Then, if necessary, call 9-1-1!
Water Safety
The pool. The beach. Boating on the lake. These are all hugely fun attractions in the summertime. Stay safe by:
- Making sure kids are supervised in the water at all times.
- Keeping your pool gated when not in use.
- Teaching your kids to swim and swim well.
- Providing life jackets when on the water, especially for non-swimmers.
- Keeping rescue equipment nearby.
- Knowing how to help someone who is drowning.
- NEVER swimming alone!
General Outdoor Safety
Whether you’re camping with the family or the kids are on the backyard playset, there’s a couple of general safety tips to keep in mind:
- Protect your skin and face with sunscreen. Use an SPF of at least 30; don’t use expired sunscreen.
- Depending on your geographical location, be on the lookout for local bugs and plants, such as ticks, mosquitoes, poison oak, or poison ivy. Remove ticks as soon as you spot them on your person. Treat exposure to poisonous plants promptly!
- Use insect repellant and remove stingers (from bees and wasps) immediately.
- When grilling, cook food properly.
- Ensure your playset is well maintained and secure.
- Wear protective gear while biking, roller skating, and skateboarding.
- Supervise children.
- Follow proper fire safety while building campfires and bonfires. Never leave a fire unattended.
- NEVER EVER leave children or pets alone in the car – it only takes a few minutes for severe consequences.
Here at Gillmann Services, safety first is our motto. We wish you and yours a safe, happy summer!