5 Dangers to Remember and Protect Against this Summer
With summer comes long days at the beach, family time spent by the pool, and barbeques with friends. While the warmer months bring many enjoyable things, it is important that we do not forget about common dangers that the season also brings. Here are five dangers to remember and protect against this summer.
1. Fires
When conditions are dry, the smallest spark or even the heat of the sun can cause the landscape to rapidly ignite and spread the wildfire across almost everything in its path. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, people cause 90 percent of wildfires in the U.S. To prevent the occurrence of a wildfire, it is extremely important to ensure that campfires and cigarettes are put out entirely, the debris is not inappropriately burned, and that matches and fireworks are used responsibly. Although Colorado saw more snow this winter (which indicates a lower likelihood for summer wildfires), the state is not immune.
2. Road Accidents
With more people on the road and sharing the road (i.e. cars, trucks, motorcycles, bikes, pedestrians), accidents can occur more commonly. Additionally, since roadwork increases during the summer months and lanes and roadways are often closed or modified, this contributes to an increase in accidents. Finally, since school is out and more inexperienced drivers (i.e. teenagers) are on the road, it is important to remain attentive at all times while driving and not to become distracted.
3. Dehydration
When the weather is hot or humid, it increases the amount that you sweat, and therefore the amount of fluid that you lose. This can cause dehydration. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drinking water can prevent dehydration, which can cause the body to overheat, constipation, and kidney stones. Since children are more at risk for dehydration (they have a greater surface area to body mass) the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends kids drink water every 20 minutes. Nausea, weakness, muscle cramping, heart palpitations, fatigue, and/or lightheadedness when standing up, may be signs of dehydration. Sipping water can help, as can fruit juice or Pedialyte. You should seek medical attention if you or a loved one begins vomiting, stops sweating, is confused, or stops producing urine.
4. Sun Damage
While it’s a great time to spend time outside, the summer weather can prove dangerous if you’re not careful. During summer months, the sun’s rays hit the Earth at a steeper angle, which stops the light from spreading out as much and increases the amount of energy that hits any spot. When unprotected skin is exposed to the sun, its UVA and UVB rays can cause serious damage. UVB rays, which go deeper into the skin can cause skin cancer. Sun damage destroys the skin’s ability to maintain its vital components. UVA rays also destroy skin. To prevent skin damage and cancer, you must wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily – regardless of the weather. It is important to use a lip balm with SPF and to reapply sunscreen when outside for a long period of time, when you get wet, or when you are sweating.
5. Dog Bites
When we think of dogs, it usually conjures up cute images of wagging tails and licks on the face. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality for some. During summer months, dog bite incidents often increase due to the fact that both dogs and people are outside and around therefore around each other more. Hot weather can also cause dogs to be irritable. Dog owners should keep track of how long their dogs have been outside, and provide ample shade and water. Parents with children should be sure not to leave them alone in the presence of an animal.
The Attorneys at Mintz Law Firm Help Those in Colorado Who Have Been Injured Due to the Negligence of Another
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may suffer many damages. From physical, to emotional, to financial, these changes can have a profound effect on your life, even causing future harm and suffering. You should not have to pay for someone else’s mistakes. That is why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Colorado personal injury attorney.