Summer is here! For most of us, Summertime brings on a more care-free attitude. Our days get lazier while we lounge at the lake or poolside and our minds seem to be a little cloudy, after all it is the season to unwind and relax. Remember to keep yourself and your family safe this Summer with these friendly reminders.

#summersafetytip 1: first and foremost let’s talk about the heat. The number one culprit for experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stress is being dehydrated and/or exposed to the direct heat for long periods of time. Drink water BEFORE you are thirsty, replenish with an electrolyte drink and stay away from caffeine and alcohol. If you wait until you crave water chances are you are already dehydrated. If you plan on being outside or playing a sport during the Summer months we suggest you increase your water intake substantially and find some shade.

#summersafetytip 2: …which leads us into sunstroke. If you have ever had sunstroke you may have experienced lifelessness, headaches, muscle spassims, fainting and/or nausea. If you are in the direct sun between 11:00 pm-3:00 pm you should be wearing a brimmed hat, loose clothing with long sleeves and an approved SPF sunscreen and of course adhering to the first #summersafetytip mentioned above.

#summersafetytip 3: dogs get heat exhaustion and sun stroke too so please be extra diligent and ensure pets stay out of the heat, have plenty of fresh drinking water and some shade to stay cool. Schedule their walks when the weather is cooler: first thing in the morning or in the evening. Fun tip: most super hairy/furry dogs love to be hosed down during intense heat.

#summersafetytip 4: at a park or beach? Aim for shade! Tote along a beach umbrella or tent and stay under it during the hottest part of the day.

#summersafetytip 5: don’t go barefoot. Purchase some water shoes for the family and wear them to the beach (or outside) so no one gets cuts from barnacles, broken glass, sharp objects or bee stings. Ouch!

#summersafetytip 6: keep any flammables (lighters, gas containers, propane, hairspray, etc…) out of the direct sunlight and/or heat. Read the warning icons that are clearly displayed on combustible products and whatever you do…do not leave them in your car.

#summersafetytip 7: speaking of car…do not leave your pets (or children) for any amount of time inside your car.

#summersafetytip 8: check the expiration date on your sunscreen. If it doesn’t have one it is recommended to replace opened bottles within 2 years otherwise the sunscreen may not work.

#summersafetytip 9: watch your children (and your pets) when near water. Do not rely on Lifeguards or others to ensure your child’s safety. Life jackets should be worn during all boating activities and near water if you or your child is not a strong swimmer.

#summersafetytip 10: keep your food cold. Ice packs in your cooler will ensure your food remains at the proper temperature and is safe for you and your family to eat.