Summer safety

We made it through winter! Congratulations to us all. As the spring turns to summer our activities change and we enjoy more time outdoors. But with fun summer activities comes more safety risks that we should keep top of mind to avoid injury or illness.  

• Hot Cars and Hot Temps – As the temperature goes up so too does the temp inside our cars.  Many children die each year in hot cars.  Pets should not be left in the car, even for a short amount of time, as cars can dangerously heat up in a matter of minutes.

• Heat-Related Illnesses – Heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion are serious and should be dealt with immediately. A person experiencing heat-related symptoms such as: profuse sweating, cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting, and/or loss of consciousness, should be removed from the heat, given cool water to drink and be checked for further problems.  If Heat Stroke sets in, a person may lose their ability to self-regulate their body temperature.  This person needs medical attention as soon as possible. Get them out of the heat and call 9-1-1.  Be proactive. Pay attention to the heat index and plan your days accordingly to avoid working for long periods of work in excessive heat.
  
  
• Sun Screen – As the weather gets warmer, many of us want to spend more time outdoors.  Sunscreen should be used to reduce the chance of over exposure and sun burn. Did you know that sunscreen expires? Many of us have been using expired sunscreen and wonder how we still get sunburned.  Check your sunscreen expiration date and throw out expired bottles. For the most effective use of sun screen, re-apply it throughout the day.
  
  
• Water Safety – When it gets hot, many people enjoy cooling off in the lake or a pool. Whether fishing, boating, floating in a river, or swimming in a pool, we should all ensure that proper personal floatation devices are available and used when near the water.  Also one person should be designated as a lookout/lifeguard when anyone is in the water. This person should keep everyone in his or her view, drowning is often a silent death.  Remember if your look out person is watching their cell phone, they are not watching the water.
  
  
• Amusement Parks – Many people escape to theme parks for some summer fun.  Even thrill-seekers should be thinking about their own safety while still having fun in the sun.  There are a variety of things to keep in mind when visiting an amusement park, such as: Secure loose clothing or items before getting on rides.  Ensure that you and your children keep all hands inside the rides at all times. Wear sunscreen, you will likely be exposed to the sun most of the day. Stay hydrated and try to rest in the shade throughout your visit.

Staying safe in the summer months seems like common sense, but remind your employees and family about this safety tips will make the summer that much more enjoyable. If you need specific safety training or have specific questions, contact your local Marsh & McLennan representative.

 Helpful resources

• OSHA's Occupational heat exposure page
• CDC's Heat and outdoor workers page
• CDC's Heat-related illness page
• CDC's Tips for preventing heat-related illness page
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health booklet, Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments