Summer means fun in the sun, but it can also mean serious accidents if you’re not careful. Car accidents are more common during the summer months, and swimming pools and beach days can lead to sunburns, heatstroke, and other water-related injuries.
On top of everything, we are also dealing with the 2019 Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic this year, which requires precautions in and of itself.
Fortunately, we have some tips that can help you keep you and your family safe:
COVID-19 Safety
No matter where you go or what you do this summer, keep in mind that we are in the midst of a serious public health crisis. Whenever you leave your home, please wear a cloth face covering and practice social distancing. You should also wash your hands regularly (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds) or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not available.
While outdoor activities are less risky, you should still avoid busy destinations and consider your activities carefully. Make sure you are adhering to local, state, and federal guidelines and think twice if you are at increased risk of severe illness.
*Please note, all the advice above is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and infectious disease experts quoted by reliable news outlets. Follow the hyperlinks for more information.
Water Safety
You do not need to wear your mask when you are in the water but do try to keep 6 feet of distance between you and people who aren’t in your household, even while swimming. Wear your mask – and lots of sunscreen – when you are on the beach. If you have children, make sure you supervise them around all bodies of water.
You should also keep the following tips from the National Safety Council in mind:
- Don’t go in the water unless you know how to swim
- Never swim alone
- Be aware that swimming in a pool is different than swimming in the ocean, a lake, or a river
- If you get caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore or float with it until you are free
- Swim in areas with a lifeguard and follow their instructions carefully
- Do not dive in shallow or unfamiliar waters
- Do not drink alcohol while swimming
Knowing how to swim and perform CPR are life-saving skills if you plan to spend time around water this summer. Swim lessons are available for people of all ages, and the American Red Cross offers CPR training across the United States.
Vehicle Safety
Whether you are driving on land or in the water, stay sober and focused on the task at hand.
Read our blog to learn How to Avoid Boating Accidents and make sure you’re familiar with the most common causes of car accidents, so you can avoid dangerous situations.
Although driving safely and defensively can help ensure you do not cause or contribute to an accident, you cannot control the actions of others.
If someone harms you, you can always call the Law Offices of Charles R. Gueli for legal assistance.
We are available for you 24/7 at (516) 628-6402 and online.