The sunny days of summer usually bring a considerable increase in 911 calls. With school out, more people spending time outdoors, and massive events happening around the country, emergency responders see serious upticks in accidents and injuries.
Follow their top tips to keep your family safe this summer.
1. Pool Safety: Accidental drownings spike in the summer. According to the CDC, currently 4,000 drowning deaths occur in the United States each year. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children ages 1-4. Follow the ABCs of pool safety – active Adult supervision, Barriers like fencing, and Classes in CPR skills. Designate one adult to watch swimmers at all times, install 4-sided fencing with self-latching gates, and ensure someone knows CPR in case of an underwater emergency. Please watch your littles at all times!
2. Fireworks Safety: With 4th of July firework celebrations heating up, so do fires and injuries. This year alone, the U.S. Fire Administration reports more than 1,000 fatalities from home fires and it reports that more than 60,000 communities in the United States. Leave it to the experts! Attend public fireworks displays rather than lighting them yourself. If using fireworks, follow all safety rules, have a hose or fire extinguisher nearby, and please, never allow children to handle fireworks.
3. Road Safety: With more time off and celebrations, there’s also an increase in traffic accidents. Alcohol impairment accounts for one-third of motor vehicle fatalities over the summer. Avoid drinking and driving by designating a sober driver or using a rideshare service. Drive extra alertly, as many other motorists may be impaired. Also, check for recalls to make sure your vehicles are safe.
4. Heat Safety: As temperatures exceed 90 degrees daily, heat stroke hospitalizations rise, especially among vulnerable groups like the elderly and homeless. Check for cooling stations within your county, these are free, and most listed on county sites. Stay hydrated and avoid exertion during peak heat. Check on elderly neighbors during heat waves, seek air conditioning or cooling stations if necessary, and know the signs of heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. These include: disorientation, confusion, damp or flushed skin, headaches, dizziness and nausea.Â
By following these safety tips from emergency responders, we can avoid becoming another tragic summer statistic and also help them manage inevitable emergencies more efficiently.
Enjoy the sunny season, but most importantly, stay safe and healthy!