During extreme heat, it’s important to check on elderly neighbors, young children, and those with chronic conditions, as they’re more vulnerable to heat-related illness. Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short time, as temperatures can rise dangerously fast. Stay informed by following local weather alerts and heat advisories.
To protect yourself and your family from bugs and the diseases they carry, use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when spending time in wooded or grassy areas. Mosquitoes can spread illnesses like West Nile virus, so it is important to remove standing water around your home, such as in buckets, birdbaths, and flower pots, to reduce breeding grounds.
Ticks are also a concern during the warmer months. After being outdoors, check for ticks on your body, especially the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, and behind the knees. Showering within two hours of coming inside can help wash away ticks before they attach. If you find one, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers and monitor for symptoms such as rash, fever, or joint pain. Early prevention and awareness can help avoid tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.
Whether you're at a pool, lake, or beach, healthy swimming habits help prevent illness. Avoid swimming if you’re sick with diarrhea, and remind kids to take regular bathroom breaks. Don’t swallow the water, and check for beach advisories before swimming to avoid bacteria and harmful algae.
Drowning can happen fast and without warning. Always supervise children near water and use life jackets for weak or non-swimmers. Keep pools fenced and secure, and consider learning basic swimming and CPR skills, they can save lives.
Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and sports, but safety should always come first. Wear proper gear, such as helmets and protective pads, and stay alert to your surroundings. Apply sunscreen regularly, stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat-related illness.
Be cautious with equipment like grills, fire pits, and fireworks, which can cause serious injuries if not handled properly. Always follow safety instructions and keep children at a safe distance. With a little preparation, outdoor fun can stay safe for everyone.
In the summer, the air can sometimes be unhealthy because of things like smoke or pollution. This can make it hard to breathe, especially for people with asthma. Check the air quality each day, and try to stay inside when the air is bad. Keep windows closed, and use a fan or air conditioner if you can. If you take medicine for breathing problems, make sure to have it with you and use it the way your doctor told you.
Summer heat can be dangerous for pets. Never leave them in a car, even for a short time, because it can get very hot quickly. Make sure pets have plenty of water and a shady place to rest when outside. Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler, and always check the pavement, if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Don’t forget to protect them from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes too.
Young children, older adults, and people with health problems can get sick from the heat more easily. Always check the back seat for children or pets before leaving your car. Make sure kids play in the shade and drink plenty of water. Check on elderly family members or neighbors during hot days to make sure they are safe and cool. A little extra care can help keep everyone healthy in the summer.