Summer is the season of outdoor adventures such as swimming, boating, and trips. It is also a time when many minor or more serious accidents can occur. The following tips can help you keep your family and friends safer by preventing some common summertime home accidents and injuries.

Sunburn

Damage from the sun is one of the most common injuries during the warmer months. Severe sunburn can leave your skin red and tender and peel off as it heals. It can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. To prevent sunburn while enjoying summer sun:

• Apply sunblock 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every two hours.
• Apply it everywhere, including the ears, lips, feet, and scalp.
• Avoid the sun during peak times for UV rays (10:00 am to 3:00 pm).
• Seek shade.
• Wear a hat and cover your body with clothing.

Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion, & Heat Stroke

Higher temperatures and time spent outdoors can easily lead to dehydration in the summer. Symptoms include dry mouth, thirst, headache, dry skin, and fatigue. To prevent dehydration, drink water and plenty of fluids such as fruit or vegetable juice throughout the day. Eight glasses is the standard recommendation.

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats. This often occurs when higher temperatures are combined with high humidity and strenuous activity. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include rapid pulse, heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea, and headache, as stated by the Mayo Clinic. It can lead to heatstroke – a life-threatening condition. To help prevent heat exhaustion:

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Rest frequently in a cool place.
• Get acclimated gradually to exercising in the heat.
• Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day.

Insect Stings & Bites

Most insect bites are simply painful, itchy, or bothersome. However, black widow and brown recluse spider bites can be serious. In some cases, mosquitos and ticks can pass on infectious diseases. Bee stings can cause a dangerous reaction in a person who is allergic. To help prevent insect bites:

• Stay indoors at dawn or dusk when mosquitos are most active.
• Steer clear of bees and wasps. Wear light colored clothing and no perfume or scented lotion or shampoo. Resist the urge to swat away a bee or wasp flying around you – it can provoke the insect to sting you.
• Wear long-sleeved tops, long pants, and closed shoes.
• Use insect repellent.

Grill Fires & Burns

Grilling outdoors can lead to burn injuries and even cause fires. For greater safety with an outdoor grill:

• Check for propane leaks regularly.
• Clean grill often to avoid grease fires.
• Use grill away from the house, children, and guests.
• Keep matches, lighter fluid, and grilling equipment in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
• Install a shutoff timer if your grill connects directly to a gas line.

Homeowners insurance can help protect you in case of a fire, or if a guest is injured on your property. Our experienced agent can help you find the best quote for the coverage you need.