Enjoy Summer Fun, But Remember Basic Safety Rules and Tips

Many people look forward to the longer, warmer days of summer so they can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. However, by following a few basic tips, you can prevent your fun from being spoiled by small problems or even avert a real tragedy.

Of all the summer activities that people enjoy, swimming is probably the most common.  The International Life Saving Federation will give you basic facts and statistics on swimming safely and drowning prevention.

Toddlers and younger children are particularly at risk. The Mayo Clinic is a good site for valuable information.

Our library also has a number of materials that may also be helpful:

Swimming and water safety 

Author: 

American Red Cross.

ISBN: 

9781584801863

Pub Date: 

2004

and for young children, this title is available:

Safety at the swimming pool 

Author: 

Raatma, Lucia.

ISBN: 

9780736801911

Summary: 

Discusses the safety aspects of swimming in a public pool, including such topics as having a buddy, listening to the lifeguards, shallow and deep water, diving boards, and emergencies.

20 million Americans own boats, everything from small fishing and sail boats to yachts.  Your library has a number of books that should satisfy the needs of most every boater.

             

The hot weather of summer can also bring certain dangers from insects, snakes and various other animals.

Though the library has a number of books on protecting yourself from pests, which can be found by doing a subject search under Pests-Control, here are two websites which provide a wealth of information on safety from insects and dangerous animals you may encounter in the summertime.

WikiHow

and

The CDC

Over the past few decades, the dangers to our skin from over exposure to the sun have become common knowledge. Here are several titles which will help to protect you and your family from the dangers of skin cancer and premature aging. 

Safe in the sun 

Author(s): 

Siegel, Mary-Ellen.

ISBN: 

9780802711007

9780802773388

Publication Information: 

New York, NY : Walker, 1990.

Physical Description: 

258p.

And last, but not least, is the danger of heat stroke. Every year, more people die from summer heat than from winter cold. Young children, the elderly and the infirm are particularly at risk as are pets. Animals should *never* be left alone in a car from about May through September. Even though it may be cool outside, when the sun is elevated in the sky as it is this time of the year, its rays can turn your car into a hot house in no time, and cracking open a window will be of no help.

For yourself and your loved ones, here is a site with facts and tips to prevent death or serious illness from excessive summer heat.

WebMD

Mercer County provides a number Cooling Centers for seniors who need to temporarily beat the heat. This link is to a flyer with public information that you may print and post where seniors and others in need may see it.

Mercer County Cooling Centers

Enjoy your summer fun, but STAY SAFE!

-Gary C.