Summer is a time for fun in the sun and endless recreational activates. Unfortunately, the summer time is also the most hazardous time of the year. During the summer months, people of all ages, particularly young children and senior citizens, are more prone to experiencing a rage of mild to deadly health related issues. Whether having fun in your own backyard or away from your Virginia Beach home, there are numerous precautions to be observed when ensuring the safety of children family and friends, especially when it comes to water related actives or severe weather. In order to have a safer and more enjoyable summer, here are some crucial tips to consider. 

The summer season brings some of the most deadly weather of the year. Severe thunderstorms and scorching heat often interrupt summer plans. 

• Severe thunderstorms, containing violent lightning and roaring thunder, are a major safety risk.
• When storms are rolling in they can sometimes be heard before they are seen. Lightning can strike when it is up to ten miles away from the area getting rain, even if it is not visible.
• People should follow the rule, if you can here thunder; you could be stuck by lightning.
• The best thing to do in these situations is seek indoor shelter away from doors and windows, avoid use of water, electronics, and only use cordless phones or cell phones.
• Heat related illnesses, caused by extreme heat, are one of the most common hazards.
• Wear breathable, lightweight, light colored clothes, since dark colors absorb more energy from the sun.
• Drink plenty of water. Avoid dehydrating drinks like alcohol and caffeine.
• Avoid strenuous activities. Frequently take time to rest from physical activities.
• Apply generous amounts of sunscreen every two hours. Use a minimum SPF of 15.  

Summertime’s most popular activities always involve water, which can be dangerous. 

• Learning and knowing how to swim is the best way to avoid dangerous situations.  
• Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone
• Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard.
• Pay attention and obey all rules and posted signs, especially flags indicating water conditions at the beach and depth markers at pools.
• Children or weak swimmers should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device while in and around the water. Set water safety rules according to a person’s swimming abilities. For example, set boundaries for children at the beach so they don’t go too deep or too far down the coast.
• Observe the water and the surrounding environment and become familiar with any potential risks, such as shallow areas, currents, changes in depth, and location of exits.
• Do not consume alcohol before of during swimming, boating, or driving.  The side effects severely impair swimming and driving skills.
• Become educated on water safety. 

Other favorite summer activities out of the water carry potential safety risks too. 

• Fireworks may be a pretty sight but they can result in severe burns and destructive fires. Attend local fireworks displays done by professionals instead of using fireworks at home.
• Playgrounds are a popular spot for young children to play. Use common sense in making sure the area looks safe, make sure all equipment is sturdy and intact, make sure metal slides are not too hot, and make sure children cannot come in contact with moving parts that might pinch or trap part of the body.
• Many people use bicycles in the summer as a way of travel, exercise, and entertainment. Proper fitting helmets, form-fitting clothing, and protective shoes should always be worn, no matter what. Also, only use bikes that are the proper size.
• As grass is continually growing in the summer, lawn mowers are constantly in use. Always use a lawn mower that cuts off when the handle is released. Do not allow the mower to project objects, pick up and clear the yard prior to mowing. Children under age twelve should not be allowed to operate a lawn mower.   

Have fun and be safe this summer!