Summer Safety Tips
Beat the Heat and Other Safety Tips
- Cover up! Wear a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight cotton clothing.
- Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or higher that protects against UVB and UVA rays.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Drink water. Avoid sugary drinks or drinks with caffine and alcohol – they dehydrate your body.
- Eat small meals with healthy snacks in between as to not increase the metabolic heat.
- Never leave children alone in or near water (wading pool, five-gallon buckets, swimming pool, spa, pond, lake, river, ocean) – not even for a moment. Be sure an adult is within arm reach at all times.
- When boating, be sure every person has their own life jacket.
- Never leave children or pets in a vehicle. The heat index can climb very quickly causing seriously injury or death.
- Always wear a helmet and other protective gear when bicycling, skating, skateboarding, horseback riding, or riding an all-terrain vehicle.
- Children under the age of 16 should not use riding lawn mowers. Children under the age of 12 should not use walk–behind mowers. When using a lawn mower, be sure to wear eye and ear protection.
- Check playground equipment and surrounding area (home and away from home) before using it, to
- Children should always use a properly fitted car seat, booster seat, or seat belt when traveling by car or airplane.
- Pesky insects seem to be everywhere during summer – use repellent that contains no more than 30% DEET. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
Enjoy your summer!! From WV Family Magazine and our wonderful sponsors: The Wow! Factory, Thomas E. Condron DDS, Jennifer Music DDS, OIC Training.
Summer Safety for Your Pet by Kirah Meade
Summer is truly a joyous time for the whole family. Lazy days, pool days, day trips, and then there are those rainy days when you have to stay inside. No matter what your summer is like, it is still SUMMER and that is all that matters. Just like for kids, there are health hazards for pets too, such as sun burns (yes, pets can get sunburns too), pesky bug bites, dehydration, and more. Let’s look at some common pet health and safety concerns during the summer .
Heat Hazards
The hazy, hot, and humid days of summer can be uncomfortable for everyone, and it can pose risks for your pet. Make sure your pet has a shady spot to rest in. Dog houses can trap heat, so make sure they have something other than a dog house. Be sure your pet has plenty of fresh water throughout the day. Avoid exercising or going for walks with your pet on extremely hot days. Avoid prolonged exposure to walking on hot asphalt or sand, because it can burn your pet’s paws. Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle on a hot day, even with the window cracked, the temperatures can rise to dangerous levels in minutes - causing seizures, brain damage, or death. If you have a dog with a short face (Bull-dog, Pug, Pekingese), be aware that these breeds have a hard time keeping cool because they can not pant as effectively. They need to be kept inside with air-conditioning. Small pets such as hamsters and guinea pigs should never be left in direct sun.
Fleas, Ticks, and other Parasites
Although flea and tick season is not limited to warm weather, they flourish in the summer. Year-round protection is recommended. Flea and tick bites can cause itching, leading to infections and even anemia. Some dogs are allergic to flea bites and experience excessive itching, swelling, hair loss, and more. Fleas and ticks can also transmit pathogens and skin diseases to your pet and to humans. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, a serious condition in humans resulting in swollen joints and neurological disorders. See more about Lyme disease on page 23. Many flea and tick medications can also protect against other parasites. Check with your vet to see which medicine is best for your pet.
General Health
Taking your dog for a walk is a great way to exercise, spend time with your pet, and socialize. However, be sure your pet is up to date with all of its shots. During your outings, you may come in contact with an animal that is not friendly. A simple sniff can turn into a nip and than a possible health hazard is at hand. Other hazards to be aware of are toxic plants and flowers, and also fertilized or chemically treated lawns. Keep your pet groomed and clean, clip nails and claws regularly. A little sunscreen on the nose will prevent sunburn. Short haired dogs or hairless breeds should be protected from sun exposure each time. There are noises that can affect your pet’s emotional health: thunder storms, fireworks, large events, concerts. Avoid these areas if your pet is sensitive to loud noises. Be sure your dog has a collar with identification tags to make sure he or she is safety returned if lost.