June is National Safety Month (NSM), an annual observance to raise awareness about the leading causes of injury and promote safety both at home and in the community. As summer heats up, so do the risks—whether it’s poolside accidents, heat exhaustion, or outdoor mishaps. That’s why now is the perfect time to take a few simple steps to keep your family and home safe all season long.
A safer summer starts here.
Water Safety: Enjoying the Pool Responsibly
Pools, lakes, and beaches offer great ways to cool down, but they also pose significant risks—especially for children. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children aged 1–4.
Water Safety Tips:
- Always Supervise: Never leave children unattended near water, even for a few seconds.
- Teach Swimming Skills: Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons.
- Use Barriers: Install fences with self-closing, self-latching gates around pools.
- Wear Life Jackets: Children and weak swimmers should always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when near open water.
- Know CPR: Learn CPR and keep a phone nearby in case of emergencies.
Heat Safety: Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses
Summer temperatures can be more than uncomfortable—they can be dangerous. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious health risks, especially for young children, older adults, and pets.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heat Stroke Warning Signs:
- High body temperature (103°F or higher)
- Confusion or slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
How to Stay Cool and Safe:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Dress Smart: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and hats.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Never Leave Kids or Pets in Cars: Temperatures can rise to dangerous levels in minutes, even with the windows cracked.
Bike Safety: Pedal Smarter This Summer
Bicycling is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active, but it’s important to ride smart. The NSC reports that bicycle-related injuries spike in summer months, especially among children.
Bike Safety Tips:
- Wear a Helmet: A properly fitted helmet reduces the risk of head injuries by up to 85%.
- Use Hand Signals: Teach kids how to indicate turns and stops to drivers and pedestrians.
- Ride With Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic and stay in designated bike lanes when available.
- Check Equipment: Before each ride, inspect tires, brakes, and chains.
- Be Visible: Wear bright clothing and add lights or reflectors to your bike, especially for dusk or evening rides.
Home Maintenance Safety: Prep Your Home for Summer
Your home also needs seasonal safety attention. Summer storms, increased outdoor activity, and high energy usage can strain your home’s systems.
Home Safety Checklist:
- Check Smoke & CO Detectors: Test batteries and replace them as needed.
- Inspect Decks and Railings: Look for loose boards, rusted nails, and signs of wear.
- Clean the Grill Safely: Remove grease buildup and keep the grill away from structures and flammable materials.
- Gutter Cleaning: Clear out debris to prevent water damage from summer storms.
- Service HVAC Systems: Clean filters and schedule a professional tune-up to prevent mid-summer breakdowns.
A Safer Summer Starts with Awareness
National Safety Month is the perfect time to evaluate your routines and refresh your commitment to safety—whether you’re at the pool, on a bike, or relaxing at home. Small steps can make a big difference in preventing injuries and keeping your family protected during the busiest (and sunniest!) season of the year.