Top 10 Preventable Summer Injuries

Fun is obviously the top concern for most people in the summer, but staying safe is also important. However, with the summer months also comes an increase in the amount of sporting accidents and recreational vehicles. Be smart and be mindful of the top injuries to avoid.

1. Swimming, Diving or Drowning Accidents: People spend more time outside swimming in the summer, and therefore these types of accidents increase in warm-weather seasons. Children should never be left unattended and should always wear proper floating equipment when swimming. Even accomplished swimmers should never dive in shallow or murky water.
2. Mower/Landscaping Equipment Injuries: Ouch! Fingers, toes, hands, feet, legs can all be cut off in an instant when you are careless about the yard equipment. Wear appropriate clothing. Keep children away from lawnmowers, trimmers, saws and other blade-bearing tools. Never wear sandals or shorts while mowing or weedwacking.
3. Dehydration/Exertion: Stock up on plenty of water. If you become lightheaded or dizzy, this is a sign of dehydration and that your body has likely sweated its natural water supply.
4. Sunburns: Skin cancer and melanoma are on the rise. Stay hydrated and lather on that sunscreen. At least an SPF 30 sunscreen will protect against the UVA and UVB rays. Keep aloe on hand to replenish your skin after time in the sun.
5. Fireworks: Never let children play with fireworks and other novelty items without adult supervision. The embers, sparks and smoke can burn eyes and hands.
6. Boating Accidents: Drinking and driving not only apply to motor vehicles, but to any type of operating vehicle. Accidents on jet skis, sporting boats, and drowning can happen when people are careless, especially if alcohol or drugs are involved. Children should always wear life jackets.
7. Bicycle and Motorcycle Accidents: Wearing helmets and driving defensively can save your life. Wear appropriate clothing to avoid scrapes or more severe head traumas. Other drivers may not see you, so be on your toes at all times and avoid riding in non-bike friendly areas.
8. Food Poisoning: Picnics or barbecues are fun, but remember that food spoils quickly if not properly refrigerated or left in the sun. This can cause salmonella poisoning and stomach illnesses.
9. Bee Stings: Working in the garden is fun, but avoid wearing perfumes when outdoors. Bees, hornets and wasps are attracted to these scents. Wear light colored clothing while working in the garden. Ask your physician to help you find out whether you are allergic to bee stings, as for some they can be life threatening.
10. Camping accidents: Firepits and camping go hand-in-hand, however make sure that you avoid such injuries associated with this fun activity. Burns, campfires, fire ants and wild animals are something to be mindful of.

Take a CPR class to learn life-saving strategies. You never know when these skills might be valuable to someone’s life!