Summer Safety Tips
Regardless if you are sitting by the pool or your kids are playing in the yard, there are some simple summer safety tips that will reduce the chance of common summer injuries. While many of these are covered every year as the weather warms, it is still a good idea to get a little reminder.
- One of the common injuries that occurs during the summer is a sunburn. In the past, it was believed that a “base tan” was good enough to protect one from a painful sunburn, we know now that we need to protect our largest organ, the skin. This can be done in several ways. The first step is to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every three to four hours. Also, wearing clothing that covers the skin such as long sleeves and pants is another approach to sun protection. Beyond the covering of the skin, one can reduce the chances of getting a nasty sunburn by picking the proper time of the day when the sun’s rays are less intense. This means spending time outside before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
- Another area that many people ignore when it comes to sun protection is the head. Wearing a hat and sunglasses will prevent one from burning the scalp and protect the eyes.
- Beyond protecting the skin from the sun, one also needs to make sure that you hydrate. Every year, people collapse from heat exhaustion. To prevent this ailment, take breaks often, sit in shady areas, and drink water. Do not drink caffeinated drinks, which will dehydrate the body. This includes tea, soft drinks, and iced coffee. These beverages may be tasty- but they are causing more harm than good when one is trying to replace the fluid that is lost in hot weather. If drinking water does not sound delicious, explore foods that contain a lot of water. This includes watermelon, cantaloupe, and cucumbers.
- During hot weather consider eating several small meals verses three large ones, which can cause stomach discomfort especially during hot weather.
Lawn Care Safety
When it comes to lawn care safety, the above should be followed but there are also safety measures that need to be taken when working out in your yard.
- Prior to doing any lawn care work, make sure you are dressed for the task. This means long pants, long sleeved shirt that buttons at the cuff, gloves, and a hat. If you have long hair then make sure that you have your hair tied back. Now you may be wondering why so much care in clothing. The reason for this is the fact that things can fly out of any equipment so you need to protect the body from being scratched and cut. Close-fitting clothing is also a must. The reason for this is that loose-fitting clothing can easily be pulled into the machinery. If this happens, you can simply lose an arm or a leg. The same holds true when it comes to hair. If your hair is below the collar of your shirt, make sure that it is styled in a way that it cannot get into the machinery that you are using.
- Another piece of lawn care safety equipment that many people do not think about is eye wear. Yes, many people put on their shades when they go outside but sunglasses do not provide the type of protection that is required when lawn care machinery is being used. Now, you may be wondering what the difference is between sunglasses and safety glasses. Sunglasses are not designed to take an impact while safety glasses will protect your eyes from an impact and chemical spray back.
- Prior to any lawn care chore you plan to do, make sure to walk around the area looking for any hazards before starting. These can include branches, trash, and even your kids’ toys that may be around your lawn that could become an issue if run over with your equipment.
- This last tip is one that many have a hard time understanding. The tip is to make sure that only those involved in the task are outside while lawn equipment is being used. Every year, individuals are hurt due to something flying out from under or through equipment. When this happens, the items can simply cut limbs off, go through windows, and cause all sorts of damage. So keep people away from the area while you are using lawn equipment.
There is a lot to remember when it comes to outdoor summer safety. Regardless of what piece of equipment you are using, there are general safety practices that need to be followed. Being prepared and understanding what to do can mean the difference between a small setback and a life-changing injury.
