Summer weather in the Northwest extends through September, so it’s important to keep outdoor safety in mind. Here are some late summer safety tips.
Enjoy Lakes and Pools Wisely
With another month or so of nice weather to look forward to, whether you’re enjoying a trip to the lake, taking a boat cruise, or splashing around in the pool, kids and teens are exposed to potential danger.
While everyone should wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddleboarding, they’re a must for inexperienced swimmers of any age.
There should always be a water spotter to keep an eye on any swimmers in the water, whether at a lake, river or swimming pool. Most swimming areas no longer have lifeguards, so it is up to parents or other adults to stay vigilant when kids are in the water. It only takes a few seconds for an inexperienced swimmer to disappear beneath the surface, and there isn’t usually any time for the struggling swimmer to cry out.
Also, be aware of any beach closure signs. Northwest bodies of water can become contaminated when temperatures rise. Algae and high bacterial concentrations can pose health hazards.
Lawn Mowing Safety
Another late summer safety tip: Among kids under 5 years of age, lawnmowers account for nearly half of all severe injuries. To keep children safe, never allow them to play in the yard when the mower is running or to ride as passengers. And make a no-touch rule to avoid burns from the machine’s red-hot muffler and engine.
Wear a Helmet
Falling off a bike, scooter or skateboard can not only be painful, but without a helmet, brain injuries can be severe. We’ve learned so much about brain health and the importance of protecting your head when skateboarding, horseback riding, and driving ATVs, too.
Safety habits start at home. It’s always important to model good helmet-wearing habits. Lead by example and your kids will follow.
Secure Your Windows
Window screens are built to pop out easily so they can’t trap people in a fire. Unfortunately, that feature also leads to serious falls when kids or pets push or fall against them. On warm days in the mostly air-condition-less Northwest, secure windows so they open no wider than four inches.
Prevent Burns
While a family barbecue might sound like a fun, safe event, remember that the barbeque grill is an accident waiting to happen. Now that people are reuniting after months of COVID quarantine, cooking together is a big part of it.
Secure Household Toxins
Ornamental berries, citronella oil in tiki torches and garden chemicals present poison risks unique to summer.
A related danger? Extreme reactions to insect bites. If someone in your family has a history of severe allergies, keep an EpiPen® on had to treat anaphylaxis and, for peace of mind, add the number for the National Poison Control Center to your contacts: 800-222-1222.
Make sure your home insurance is current. You never know when you’re going to need it! https://sav-on.com/home-insurance/
Source: PEMCO Insurance
