The carefree days of summer are here! That means you hopefully have more time to enjoy outdoor activities — and maybe even a few vacation days. While this time of year may provide you with more time to enjoy some exciting and invigorating activities, it's also a time when you may be more prone to injuries if you're not careful.
If you've ever seen a list of summer safety tips, you may have noticed that most lists contain age-old warnings about being careful around fireworks, never swimming alone and wearing sunscreen so you don't get burned. But there are other tips that may not be as obvious that can go a long way towards keeping you safer so you can enjoy all that summer has to offer.
Here are five safety tips for an active summer:
- Be prepared when spending time in nature. Going for a trail walk or run? Wear the proper footwear and dress to protect yourself from bugs and the sun. Go with a buddy and make sure someone else knows where you're headed. Also bring more water and snacks than you think you need in case you get lost or sidetracked.
- Don't text and bike. Just as texting while driving a motor vehicle can be very dangerous, so too can texting while riding a bicycle. Anything that distracts you can cause you to have an accident. Of course, it's also important not to drink alcohol or use illicit drugs before riding — and wear a helmet for extra protection.
- Be aware of your surroundings in the water. It's never a good idea to swim alone, but it's also important to be aware of where you're swimming. If you're in the ocean or a lake, there may be dangers lurking that you don't expect so stay alert. Pay attention to rip tide warnings, possible shark sightings or boats and jet skis nearby.
- Plan ahead before a road trip. If you are heading anywhere by car this summer, make sure your car is up for the challenge. Take care of any maintenance or repairs before you leave. Check your tire pressure as well as oil and fluid levels. In case you get stuck along the way, bring along water, snacks and safety items, such as flares, a jack and tire pump, blankets and a first aid kit.
- Don't broadcast travel plans. You'll certainly want to let the people closest to you know when you are going to be away from home (and let someone know your itinerary, especially if you're traveling alone). But it's a good idea not to broadcast your travel plans on social media. This may make your home a target of a break-in while you're gone.
Copyright 2022 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Health eCooking® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
Date Last Reviewed: April 18, 2022
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.