Outdoor Safety Tips

Summer would not be the same without barbecuing, swimming, and camping, and you can have a safe and healthy summer by practicing outdoor safety tips. Do not underestimate the power of the sun and take breaks from the outdoors to allow your body to recuperate. While Vitamin D is good for you, limit the amount of time you are in the sun during hot days.

Safety Tips for Outside Activities

Pool Safety Tips

• Do not let young children swim in the pool unless there is an adult nearby who can dive in after the child if need arises. Despite your age, it is always best if you use the buddy system when near water.
• Cover your pool when not in use to prevent potential accidents. Take the cover off completely before entering the swimming pool.
• Check to make sure there is a life-saving device before entering the pool, even if you are physically fit.
• If you are swimming alone, keep a cordless phone nearby in case you need to dial for help. Before swimming, ensure your front door is locked.
• Limit the amount of time you are in a hot tub to prevent over heating. Children should avoid using hot tubs for more than a few minutes.
• You are responsible for your guests, so observe their actions and take initiatives to prevent accidents from occurring on your property. Do not let minors swim unless their parent is watching.
• Minimize your alcohol consumption when in the hot tub or monitoring children's activities. The sun, liquor, and hot tub compromise your cognitive ability.

Barbecuing Safety Tips

• Ensure your barbecue is at least ten meters from your house and that there are not any trees or shrubs in the way. Inspect your equipment for cracks and damages in between uses.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby when barbecuing. Avoid cooking on surfaces that can easily catch fire, such as decks and balconies.
• Do not wear lose-fitting or beach-like clothing when using the barbecue. While going shirtless may entertain guests, you are putting your own safety at risk.
• Turn the gas or propane off immediately after the food is cooked. Do not deliver the food to the table with the barbecue still lit.

Beach and Sun Safety Tips

• Avoid unpopulated beaches that do not have staffed lifeguard stations and observe the conditions when you arrive at the water. The ocean rapidly changes and conditions may vary from what you read.
• If you are packing a lunch, wrap the items in biodegradable materials and avoid bringing glass products. Do not bring alcoholic beverages with you, as they impair your judgment and most state beaches prohibit them.
• Never go to the beach alone, always bring a friend with you.
• Before leaving for a day in the sun, utilize outdoor safety tips and wear sunglasses or visors to protect your face from the sun.
• You can still get sunburn even if it is cloudy out; you are more susceptible to burning if you are in the water for long periods. Wear sunscreen that has an SPF rating of at least 15.

Hiking and Camping Tips

• Upon arrival at your campsite, make your tent and other sleeping arrangements before sunset. Maximize daylight hours by securing your fort and performing tasks that require daylight, such as gathering wood.
• Get an early start and hit the trails before the roosters wake up. Starting earlier reduces the amount of time you spend in the intense afternoon sun.
• You would be surprised what bears will eat, so keep your food, toothpaste, makeup, and any other objects out of their reach. Keep food products out of your tent and avoid leaving a trail of evidence to your tent.

Put Safety First, and the Fun Will Follow

An act of carelessness can ruin an otherwise perfect day in the great outdoors. Keep these safety tips in mind as you go about your activities, and you're bound to have some fun in the sun.