Tips for Having Fun, Safely, This Summer
Tips to beat the heat -- or make the most of it -- safely.
July 16, 2010 — -- Summer is in full swing, and it means fun in the sun, with swimming, barbecues and lots of activities in the great outdoors.
But while you're busy planning your next family outing, don't ignore the basic safety tips that could ensure your children's safety.
Everybody in the Pool!
The recent record-breaking high temperatures means lots of people are heading for a cooling dip in the pool. Parents need to be aware of the very real dangers that can lurk in and around the placid water.
Water wings are popular flotation aid devices for children, but they aren't life vests, and they don't protect children against drowning. That means parents still need to keep a very watchful eye on children who are wearing water wings.
Click HERE to learn more about children's swimming safety.
Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot
Beware of soaring summer temperatures. Twenty-one children already have died this year from being left in cars that were too hot.
Cars can heat up to more than 100 degrees in just a few minutes.
While you're being careful about your children, don't neglect your pet's health. Never ever leave a pet inside a locked car when it's hot outside. Your pet is susceptible to heatstroke.
Click HERE for more about making the best of your summer vacation with your pet.
Bike Safely
If you love biking in the summer, enjoy it safely.
In 2008, 716 bicyclists were killed and an additional 52,000 were injured in traffic crashes, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
In order to avoid becoming a statistic, you need to pay attention to your surroundings. Don't wear headphones when you're riding. You increase the chance of a collision if you're distracted by music.
Wear bright colors when you're biking, especially if you are out late in the day.
Click HERE for other bicycle safety tips from NHTSA.
Safety on the Grill
Did you know that 3,000 homes are burned downed each year because of the incorrect use of a barbecue grill? Using a grill improperly -- or too close to the house -- can have dire consequences.
Click HERE for grilling safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association.