Taking certain precautions may help people stay safe on their summer vacations. Activity often increases throughout the summer months, with children having time off school and many families traveling. However, summer accidents occur all too often and may result in serious injuries or death for those involved.
Common Summer Vacation Hazards
Adults and children face various hazards during the summer months. Some of the most common of these include the following:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Swimming pool or beach accidents
- Sunburn
- Heat-related illnesses
Practicing road safety, using caution around the water, and preparing for the sun and water may help people avoid these and other summer hazards, which may aid in preventing an injury.
Practicing Road Safety
Practicing safe driving, walking, and biking habits may help people avoid getting into potentially serious or deadly accidents. Whether going to the store or traveling to a new location for some time away, drivers should take caution to avoid drinking and driving, as well as distracted driving. Additionally, they should practice defensive driving.
When walking or biking during summer vacation, people may take steps to help prevent vehicles from hitting them. For instance, this may include following the traffic signs and signals, dressing to increase their visibility, and staying on sidewalks or areas otherwise designated for pedestrians or bicyclists. Adult and children bike riders should also wear helmets whenever they ride to help provide additional protection to their heads in the event of accidents.
Using Caution Around the Water
Staying cautious around the water may help people prevent drowning accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, five children require emergency medical care for injuries near-drowning injuries for every one child who dies as a result of drowning. Whether at the beach or a swimming pool, people should keep a close watch on those in their group, particularly any children. Those who do not have strong swimming skills may benefit by using life vests or other such inflatable devices.
Preparing for the Sun and Heat
Taking precautions when they will be outdoors in the sun and heat may help people avoid some summer vacation injuries, including sunburn and heat-related illnesses. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than one in three people in the U.S. report getting sunburns each year. Using sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and reapplying as directed, may help protect skin from overexposure to UV rays that may cause sunburns. Wearing hats and sun clothing may also help people protect their skin and avoid the discomfort and potential future complications of sunburns.
When enjoying their summer vacations, people may help prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, by limiting their time outdoors or in non-air-conditioned areas. When outdoors, people may find it helpful to stay hydrated, taking regular water breaks, and limit their exposure to the sun by wearing hats and protective clothing. Using the shade to take breaks from the sun may also help people protect themselves from suffering heat-related illnesses on their summer vacations.
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