Swimming and boating are great ways to enjoy the summer months but extra caution should be used around the water.
- Only swim in guarded areas and supervise children at all times.
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard certified life jacket during water recreation.
- Watch out for rip currents.
- Head warning flags when at the beach.
- Learn boating safety by taking a formal safety course.
- Avoid alcohol when swimming, boating or during water recreation sports, especially when supervising children.
Summer is the season for cooking outdoors, but before you dust off your grill, brush up on barbecue fire safety tips.
- Do not overfill the propane tank.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing.
- Do not add lighter fluid to an already lit fire.
- Douse hot coals with plenty of water.
- Never place hot coals in a plastic, paper, or wooden containers.
- Never grill or barbecue in enclosed areas, life threatening carbon monoxide can be produced.
Camping and the summer season go hand in hand. Before gathering all your camping supplies, make sure you review these fire and camping safety tips.
- Always build campfires away from dry grass, leaves, and brush.
- Keep your campfire contained and small.
- Have plenty of water and a shovel nearby to extinguish the fire.
- Never leave campfires unattended.
- Use a flame retardant tent and set up camp as far away from the campfire as possible.
- Build your campfire down wind from your tent.
- Store liquid fire starter away from your tent and campfire.
- As a safer alternative, consider using dry kindling to start your campfire instead of liquid fire starter.
Source: The National Fire Protection Agency