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Summer Safety

Silhouettes of young group of people jumping in ocean at sunsetGiven that most Americans spent the summer of 2020 sheltering in place, this year’s summer has been highly anticipated. People are venturing out into the world again on family vacations, especially around water. Spending a fun day boating at the lake or relaxing by the pool can be the best way to beat the heat, but it can also be full of risks that can turn the dog days of summer into tragedy. It’s important to arm yourself with as many safety tips as possible to protect your family during all your adventures.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2021 has so far been the eighth-warmest year in almost 150 years of record keeping. Temperatures are rising everywhere and heat stroke is something that anyone enjoying the outdoors should learn about. Signs of heat stroke include an unusually fast pulse, overly damp or dry skin, headaches, nausea and dizziness. It’s also important to never leave children or pets unattended in a hot car, as temperatures can rise over 150 degrees within minutes during the summer. 

Few things are more refreshing on a blazing hot day than cooling off in the water. But there are many dangers around pools and other bodies of water. Drowning deaths can happen in seconds, and polluted rivers, lakes and oceans can infect you with deadly bacteria. Always check out the water quality in the area you are planning to visit, and never let children play near water without adult supervision. 

And, don’t forget that summer can also bring hurricanes. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and storms seem to be growing larger and stronger every year. If you live near the Atlantic or Gulf Coast or in a flood zone, make sure you put together a hurricane preparedness plan. It’s an important part of summer safety and can mean the difference between life and death. 

During your summer travels, remember that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we travel, and it may never be the same. Nearly half of all Americans have already received the vaccine, but the virus is still very much a threat, and new variants and challenges are popping up all the time. Make sure you continue washing hands, using hand sanitizer, and trying to social distance as much as possible when you travel. Don’t forget your mask, as they are still required on all modes of U.S. public transportation.

Learn more from our affiliates on how you can make it a great and safe summer.

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