Summer Safety & First Aid

Here are some tips to keep you safe and healthy during the Summer:

BIKING:
1. Before riding check your bike's condition
2. Always wear a helmet
3. Wear bright colors
4. Avoid clothing that can get caught in the chain
5. Use reflectors
6. Don't ride at night
7. Obey the same traffic signs and signals that cars do
8. Ride single-file and to the right with traffic
9. Signal with your left hand

OUTDOOR SPORTS:
1. Have water handy to drink at all times
2. Play in safe areas, away from traffic
3. Warm up before vigorous activity
4. Wear protective gear
5. Watch for following symptoms of heat stroke: decreased sweating, red, hot and dry skin, confusion, irritability, deep breathing, and unconsciousness
6. If heat stroke symptoms occur; move to a cool place, remove unnecessary clothing, lay on back with feet raised, sponge with cool water. Call 911 IMMEDIATELY!

BOATING:
1. Follow boat safety rules
2. Make sure everyone wears personal flotation device
3. Check equipment and fuel before leaving
4. Carry emergency beacons and/or a ship to shore radio if planning long trip
5. Don't boat in bad weather or near swimmers or water skiers
6. Always let someone know expected departure and return

SUMMER STORMS:
1. In a thunderstorm, seek shelter at once (e.g. in a building or car)
2. If outside, don't take shelter under a tree, and avoid open water
3. Put aside metal items you are carrying
4. In a tornado, seek shelter on the lowest floor
5. Avoid windows and get under a heavy table
6. if outdoors get under a gully or ditch and cover your head

INSECT BITE PROTECTION:
1. Wear protective clothing; long sleeves, pants, shoes and socks
2. Apply a repellent containing no more than 10% DEET
3. Avoid perfumes and scented lotions
4. Carry the proper medication at all times if you have an allergy to insects

Courtesy of Orleans Community Health