While just about everyone looks forward to the holidays, family vacations, and pool-ready weather of summer, it’s important to make sure that we’re all well prepared to say safe.
Unfortunately, we can’t always protect ourselves from the negligence of others--but we can do our part to stay informed and look for ways to contribute to overall safety. Check out these 5 summer safety tips in order to keep your summer injury-free!
1. Protect Your Skin Against the Sun
It’s no secret that the sun’s rays are harmful to our skin, and they can take their toll on our vision as well. For those long, lazy summer days outdoors, it’s important to always wear sunglasses and sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30.
For added protection against UV rays, we recommend opting for sunscreens that say "broad-spectrum" on the bottle. When looking for sunglasses that actually make a difference, seek out pairs that block the highest possible percentage of UV rays--99% is ideal!
2. Always Be an Attentive Driver.
We can’t emphasize safe driving enough! Texts and incoming calls can wait, and a driver’s eyes need to stay on the road at all times while they’re behind the wheel. Drivers should always stay alert and attentive on the road, vigilantly checking for hazards, pedestrians, and motorcyclists.
If summer parties run late into the night, it pays to be realistic about whether we’re alert and sober enough to safely drive home. Planning out where to stay in case of a late-night is always a good idea. Last but not least, it should go without saying: Do not drink and drive.
3. Exercise Caution Around Pools and Large Bodies of Water.
While pools are a great place to cool off and have fun with friends and family, they demand a certain level of attentiveness as well. It’s important to make sure that young children are always supervised near pools, lakes, and rivers, and that they have access to plenty of flotation devices as well.
The poolside can get slippery, too, so it’s crucial to keep excited swimmers from running and risking injury. Avoiding crowding and rough-housing next to the pool is highly recommended as well.
4. Plan Ahead and Drink Responsibly.
Many of us like to kick back and relax with a drink or two during our free time during the summer, and it can be a great way to unwind. However, drinking should only be done when there is a designated sober driver available to transport others and sober chaperones for children.
5. Beat the Heat by Staying Hydrated.
Whether summer festivities include alcohol or not, hydration is always important, especially on hot days. While we’re having fun swimming, strolling, or even just reclining on a trusty lawn chair, water is key when it comes to avoiding overheating. People sweat and lose a whole lot more water when it’s hot, and it’s imperative to replenish our fluids in order to prevent dehydration.
Staying Safe in Chicago
At McNabola & Associates, LLC, we’re committed to helping others recuperate from injuries sustained due to the negligence of another. We also want to help people prepare themselves for a safer future by knowing what to look out for in order to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
If your injury was sustained due to another’s negligence, make sure your legal rights are protected. Contact McNabola & Associates at (312) 888-8700 for a free case evaluation.