Summer Safety

It's officially summer (remember to wear your sunscreen!) I googled 'summer safety' to see what good info I could glean, and is there a lot! Of course water safety is at the top, but did you know your garden hose may be hazardous to your health? Many hoses are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which uses lead as a stabilizer.

This week includes some bits and pieces from areas that might be overlooked when it comes to personal safety, children's safety, and even pet safety.

Garden Safety:
First of all, it's a good idea NOT to ingest any plants, flowers or berries that you are unfamiliar with. Marie Iannotti @ about.com shares 5 common plants you may never have considered as poisonous or dangerous.

1. Chinese Lantern Plant, Strawberry Ground Cherry (Physalis alkekengi)
2. Chrysanthemum, Garden Mum (Chrysanthemum X morifolium, a.k.a. Dendranthema
3. Hydrangea
4. Lantana
5. Rhododendron & Azalea

Full article: http://gardening.about.com/od/allergiesarthritis/tp/Five-Poisonous-Plants.htm

Hose Safety article: http://containergardening.about.com/od/greencontainergardening/a/Gardenhose.htm


Dog Safety Tips:

Heat Stroke - If you take your dog out on your jog, remember they are still jogging in their winter coat (or a slightly lighter version) and can only cool themselves by panting and a small amount of sweating through the foot pads. Not enough! Many dogs, especially the 'athletes' will keep running, no matter what, to stay up with their owner. Change the routine to early morning or late evening to prevent heat stroke.

Dogs can get sunburns, too. If you are planning to spend time outdoors with your dog, find a shady spot and provide plenty of fresh, cool water.

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are naturally skilled swimmers. Also remember that even the most experienced swimmer can become a victim of an undertow, jellyfish or other hazard. Additionally, try not to let your dog drink the water – salt water can dehydrate dogs and cause vomiting and diarrhea. The water in lakes and pond can contain parasites and bacteria that can infect your dog. Provide plenty of fresh, clean water for drinking.

Full Article: http://dogs.about.com/od/caringfordogsandpuppies/tp/warmweathersafety.htm

Scooter, Bike and Pedestrian Safety:
Scooters, bikes, in-line skates and skateboards are associated with numerous injuries yearly.
--Wear a comfortable, properly fitted helmet bearing the label of an independent testing lab. Be sure that the helmet sits level on top of the head–not rocking in any direction–and always fasten the safety strap.
--Be sure that safety gear (wrist, elbow and knee pads) fits properly and does not interfere with the rider's movement, vision or hearing. Wrist pads are not recommended for scooter riders as they may affect their ability to maneuver.
--Ride scooters and bikes only on smooth, paved surfaces and only ride during daylight hours.
--Learn the proper hand signals and use them when you turn or stop. Come to a
complete stop before entering driveways, paths or sidewalks, then look left, right
and left again for bikes, cars or pedestrians heading your way.
--Teach crossing safety to children by example.
--Share the road. Make eye contact, smile, or wave to communicate to motorists. Courtesy and predictability are keys in safe cycling.
--Ride far enough from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars.
--Keep control of your bicycle; be able to look behind you and ride with one hand while signalling.
--Be aware of potential hazards like road litter, potholes, gravel and storm grates.
--Be visible. Cyclists must take responsibility for being visible to motorists,
pedestrians, or other cyclists. There are numerous ways to enhance your visibility. Wear light-colored clothing: fluorescent colors such as bright orange or lime green and yellow are excellent.
Copy Provided by EBC’s State Wellness Program

So enjoy the long summer days and we'll share a variety or women's safety, and family safety tips over the next few weeks. Coming up next, the 4th of July!

Be Aware. Be Safe. Watch out for Bees.