BBQs, lounging at the pool or beach…June kicks off the carefree days of summer. On a sobering note, it is also the start of the season when there are more car crashes, swimming injuries and other accidents.
Not only does summer mean crowds at amusement parks and beaches but in the emergency room. The season is responsible for 27 percent of the year’s ER visits, giving it a slight edge over other seasons for the most visits, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accidents, mishaps and sun poisoning are among the causes of this increase.
Given these stats, the National Safety Council has declared June as National Safety Month. Some simple safety precautions can reduce the risk of landing in the ER.
Are you or your children heading out for a bike ride, to go roller-skating, skateboarding, or ride a scooter? Proper protective equipment, especially a helmet, is a must. A bad hit to the head doesn’t have to be a hard one to cause traumatic damage to the brain.
Do you have a backyard trampoline? Be sure it has a safety enclosure to reduce injuries and limit the number of kids on it at one time.
Sun safety should be employed as well. Sunscreen protects from sunburns and harmful ultra-violet rays. Never leave kids unattended in a hot vehicle as heat stroke can strike quickly.
Drowning is a leading cause of injury death for young children ages 1 to 4, and the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death for people of all ages. Some of the most effective ways to prevent drowning include four-sided fencing, swimming lessons, life jackets, and supervision/lifeguarding. Knowing CPR can also save the life of someone who drowns.
Summer is a time for outdoor fun. Staying alert, being aware, taking precautions and having safety steps in place will increase the chances of keeping this summer a healthy one.
If you or someone you care about has been injured, contact Rosenberg & Gluck, personal injury attorneys, for a free, confidential legal consultation to learn more about your
