Summer Safety Tips

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is a time to enjoy Brevard’s beautiful beaches and the great outdoors, but it is important to stay safe.

While these summer months are full of barbecues, beach days, boating and fishing, keeping safety in mind isn’t always at the top of your to-do list. These summer safety tips should be applied to ensure you and your family is safe all summer long.

Barbecues

• When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluid designed for barbecue grills. Do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
• When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hose for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.

Beach Days

• It only takes 10 minutes for a baby’s skin to burn, but sunscreen isn’t safe for infants under 6 months. Keep babies out of the sun!
• Only broad-spectrum sunscreens of SPF 15+ can protect skin from UVA &UVB rays. Don’t use any sunscreen less than SPF 15+.
• The sun’s rays are their strongest from 10AM-4PM. Be sure to limit your time in the sun during this time and wear sunscreen.
• Sunscreen is only 1 level of defense against the sun. Protect yourself by adding wide-brimmed hats, protective clothing and sunglasses for more coverage.

Boating

• Wear a life vest (PFD). Even if you’re a strong swimmer, at least bring one on the boat with you. Children, ages of 12 and under, must be wearing a life vest at all times. NOTE: 90% of drowning victims were not wearing a life vest.
• Never drink alcohol and pilot a boat; it is illegal and is the leading cause in deadly boating accidents.
• Maintain a safe speed; be aware of other boaters and swimmers. Know the right of way while on the water. Also be familiar with the waters you are navigating.

Fishing

• Fishing hooks are very sharp and need to be handled with care to avoid injury. Before casting, it is important that you should look around you and stay unobstructed to avoid hurting other people with your hook.
• It is always advised that you avoid fishing alone. Always be with a friend, as when emergency strikes, there can be someone who can call for help.