Summer Safety
It’s that time of year again; time to enjoy the great outdoors with our friends and family. Many of us like to spend our weekends camping, hiking, and even boating. After all, it is perfect weather for these types of activities. While these activities are all fun, we must still be cautious when participating and make our safety, and the safety of those around us, a priority. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when planning these summer activities.
When camping, it is important to always have a back-up plan in case of an emergency. Things to consider in this plan should include where the nearest storm shelter, hospital, or safe place is for everyone to meet. Also, you should be sure to bring along a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, appropriate clothing for the activities you plan to do, a map of the area in which you will be staying, a compass, and most importantly plenty of drinking water. If you are planning on bringing food with you, and/or cooking at your campsite, be sure to check with local park authority for any precautions you may need to take with storing your food, as well as the local campfire regulations. Always be sure that your campfire is out completely. You do not want the fire to re-kindle while you are sleeping or after you’ve left the area.
Oftentimes when camping, hiking is involved. Many of the same safety precautions for camping should also be followed for hiking. Staying safe while hiking is both easy to do and critical for everyone involved. Some extra precautions would be light weight but protective clothing, closed toed shoes such as tennis shoes or hiking boots, and don’t forget to bring plenty of cold drinking water for everyone. Before heading out on the trails, consider warming up your muscles and running through some good stretches. It may only be walking but you will still encounter hills and rough terrain. Another important tip is to familiarize yourself with the different types of wildlife and plants that you may encounter while on your excursion. Then you will know how to act/react if you encounter a poisonous snake or some other animal, or develop a reaction to a plant that came in contact with you.
If you are spending your weekend at the lake, you may also be participating in various water sports. When you or your group is heading out to the water, be sure you know who can and cannot swim. Also make sure that there are enough appropriately sized life jackets for everyone, plenty of cold drinking water, and plenty of sunscreen (remember that you will need to apply it more often if in the water). Also, never go out to the water while intoxicated, and never allow your friends to do so either. It is much more likely that an accident or drowning could occur if someone is under the influence. And finally, remember to obey all of the rules of the lake - including speed limits, designated swimming areas, no-wake zones, and jet-ski zones. Following these rules will ensure that you, your group, and everyone else sharing the water stay safe.
So, now that you know what to do and how to stay safe this summer, go relax and have fun. Just remember, the safety of yourself and those around you should always come first, especially in situations that could become dangerous without warning, such as camping, hiking, and water sports.