Take small measures to celebrate summer safely

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Common sense can go a long way

Brookhaven, GA, July 27, 2018–There’s still time for plenty of summer fun before the Labor Day weekend, with many folks enjoying activities such as swimming, walking, biking or just enjoying being outdoors. Whether you’re grilling steaks in the park, traveling on vacation or coping with hot summer days, don’t let your guard down when it comes to summer safety.

Paul White, City of Brookhaven Emergency Management Coordinator, has gathered some timely safety tips to keep in mind as you navigate what’s left of this year’s summer season.

 “Sometimes we get so tuned in to having a good time that it’s easy to let our guard down,” said White, “All it takes is just a brief careless moment to change our focus and put our safety or the safety of others at risk.”

To help, White shares some timely safety reminders from the National Safety Council (NSC):

Heads Up, Phone Down

With Brookhaven’s many parks, trails and “walkable” urban areas, almost everyone can relate to pedestrian safety. SafeKids.org notes that pedestrian-vehicle injuries are the fifth leading cause of death for children ages 5-19, but no age group is immune to this danger. Here are a few tips for children and adults of all ages:

• Look left, right and left again before crossing the street. Be aware of drivers even when you’re in a crosswalk…vehicles have blind spots.
• Never use a cell phone or other electronic device while walking, not just in crosswalks or intersections. Remain aware of your surroundings.
• Wear bright and/or reflective clothing.

Live to Ride Another Day

Biking is one of the best ways to get exercise, stay in shape, see the sights and reduce pollution. Bikers need to take extra caution when riding. They share the road with vehicles, creating the potential for a host of hazards.

• Become acquainted with traffic laws; cyclists must follow the same rules as motorists.
• Ride single-file in the direction of traffic and watch for opening car doors and other hazards.
• Make sure your bike is equipped with reflectors, a horn or bell and a rear-view mirror.

Splish-Splashing for Summer Fun

According to the NSC, on average, nine people die from drowning every day in the United States. Teens and young adults sometimes become so focused on having fun in a water feature that they forget some of the basic swimming rules.

• Don’t go into the water unless you know how to swim. Never swim alone if possible.
• Learn CPR and rescue techniques
• Don’t push or jump on others or dive in unfamiliar areas.

Beat the Heat

Every year, stories make the news about children or pets left in cars on hot summer days. The best rule of thumb is NEVER leave youngsters or Fido in a hot car unattended. But often overlooked are heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke due to exposure to excessive heat. These can escalate rapidly, leading to delirium, organ damage or worse. Most vulnerable are infants or young children, the elderly, athletes or pets.

• For heatstroke victims, spray with water and fan vigorously, move them to a half-sitting position and call emergency medical help immediately.
• For someone suffering from heat exhaustion, move them to a shaded area, give them water or a cool beverage and apply wet towels or have them take a cool shower.
• Limit exposure outdoors on very hot days.

Common sense and a dose of caution can go a long way to ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable summer. Party hearty this summer, but play safe!  

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