Summer is a wonderful season to enjoy family activities, outdoor recreation and just plain old relaxation. The warm weather and loose schedule offers time to sit back, let your hair down and enjoy some time off from school and work.
While enjoyable, summer activities can also be dangerous, so here are five tips to keep you safe:
1. Travel with a well-equipped vehicle
Whether you travel for a living or are planning a trip for pleasure, check your car for the following:
- tires with enough tread and air
- a first aid kit
- adjustable mirrors
- working headlights, break lights and turn signals
- a well-lubricated engine
- functional windshield wipers and cleaning fluid
Any time on the road puts you in the pathway of danger, as you can't control the actions of other drivers. In addition, many summer trips consist of carpooling and riding with someone else driving. Ensure the person behind the wheel has a good driving record, is responsible and has the necessary license and registration on hand.
2. Ride responsibly
If you're looking to save money on your summer travels by riding the bus, stay alert and aware of your surroundings, as buses are large and vulnerable to certain types of collisions. Extended ride bus passengers have more freedom to move than those in smaller vehicles, but that does not mean all times are optimal for movement. Avoid moving around the bus during wide turns and other tricky maneuvers. Watch for the driver to signal when it's safe to walk along the aisle and use the bus bathroom.
In addition, you will benefit from keeping your belongings in one compact place or bag. In addition to preventing loss or theft, you keep organized and ready to safely disembark at your destination.
3. Exercise awareness in unfamiliar settings
You likely know the layout of your property, but being on someone else's property means different safety concerns. For instance, your backyard may be wasp free, but plenty of public and private areas are not.
Loose nails, uneven steps and slippery areas also create problems. The last thing you want this summer is to slip and crack your head open. Before playing in a public park or other area, and when visiting friends' and neighbor's houses, check the area for hazards.
This could include applying bug repellent, keeping activities away from train tracks and railroad areas and conducting a safety check before camping, playing or beginning an activity. You’ll be glad you took the extra time.
4. Boat responsibly
Boating is one of many enjoyable summer outings available to natives of Indiana. A fun boating trip can come to a halt if you become stranded or injured.
Obey all boating laws and regulations. Have your boater education card handy, and allow only authorized drivers to operate the boat.
Before leaving on an outing, stock up with life jackets and emergency equipment, including food and water, communication devices, a first aid kit and the appropriate flags.
5. Don’t hike alone
Going for a solo hike might appeal, but even the most experienced hikers have met trouble on the path alone. At the very least, tell someone where you’re going if you’re determined to hike alone.
Either way, travel with a map and plenty of water. Know your route before you embark, and familiarize yourself with how the trail should start and end. Research what plants are potentially dangerous in the area.
In the end, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to a safe and fun summer.
