Injury Prevention
June 2, 2007
Summer is a great time to get involved in outdoor activities, but many accidents occur each year when proper safety precautions are not taken. All children should wear helmets while riding bikes or scooters and also while rollerblading or using a skateboard. During boating activities, life jackets should be worn by everybody. Also, alcohol causes many boating accidents and should be avoided completely while operating a boat. All children should be closely supervised during any water activities even if they are able to swim.
Even non-recreational outdoor activities can be dangerous. Protective eyewear should be worn while mowing the lawn or doing yard work, as eye injuries are common during these activities. Anytime you are involved in any outdoor activity, be sure to be stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and by avoiding caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are quite common during hot Texas summers, but can be prevented with by keeping well hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing, and by avoiding overly strenuous activity.