Fun in the Sun Safety Tips

A couple of months ago we shared safety tips at festivals and parades. Independence Day is fast approaching so let’s look at some additional tips to keep the fun in your summertime.

Shades, hats and sunscreen are a given for any outdoor excursion, but here are a few more items:

*Hand sanitizer and/or disinfectant wipes. Chances are the festivities you’ll attend will have restroom facilities but they may not always be the cleanest. Having hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes will help you protect you from toilet seat germs and come in handy when there’s no soap to wash your hands.

*Water, juice and/or Gatorade. Even if you plan to play in the water be it a pool, beach or lake, external H20 does not hydrate internal organs. Keep in mind also that alcohol and sodas (soft drinks) actually dehydrate the body. Don’t like plain water? Add lemon, lime, strawberries and/or cucumber (and plenty of ice) to your bottle, pitcher or jug.
*Lip balm (with SPF), hand lotion and saline nasal spray. Lips, skin and nasal passages can dry out with excessive exposure to heat, especially in dry, dusty climates. Having these items can alleviate discomfort.

*Rubbing alcohol, anti-itch cream, insect repellent. Bugs will be bugs so be sure and keep a first aid kit with these items for the instance someone in your party is bitten or stung. If you (or someone you know) is allergic to insect bites or stings, make sure you carry allergy medicine with you. Essential oils like Lavender are great for relieving the pain and itch of insect bites or stings and helps fight infection. Before you use essential oils or another natural remedy, research and use wisdom.

*Avoid touching extremely hot surfaces. While watching a medical report I learned that people can get a 2nd degree burn by walking barefoot on hot concrete/asphalt or touching hot cars. I also learned when this happens, do not use ice! Instead, use cool tap water (not ice water) and get to a medical facility ASAHP.

Firework safety is another important thing to be aware of and exercise, anytime, so keep that in mind for your Fourth of July celebrations.

Our office will be closed on July 4th but while you’re celebrating our country’s independence, check out these interesting facts on Insurance History during and after the Civil War.

Until next time, take care and have a safe and happy summer!
Tommy Curtis and Staff