Summer Safety Tips 

Summer is a time for outdoor exploration or just relaxing in the sun, but with increased activities, comes increased risk. We’ve collected some safety tips to help keep your summer adventures safe for the whole family.  

Beating the Heat 

No matter your age or physical fitness level, heat related illnesses can have drastic consequences. In the Pacific Northwest, many people are not acclimated to extreme temperatures and  not all homes have air conditioning, so it’s important to prepare. If your power goes out or you don’t have AC, go to a cooling center or other air-conditioned place in your community. It’s also important to wear lightweight clothing, drink plenty of water, replenish your electrolytes, and avoid strenuous activity while it’s hot outside.  

Pet Summer Safety  

When it comes to a 90- or 100-degree day, pets are just like us! They can get dehydrated, over heated, and even suffer from heat stroke. The easiest thing to remember is to never  leave your pets alone in a hot car since internal temperatures can be much higher than the temperature outside. Just like you, it’s important to make sure your pet is drinking enough water and has cool shaded places to rest on hot days.  

Signs of heatstroke in pets: 

• Heavy panting 

• Unable to calm down 

• Gums discolored like red brick 

• Racing heartbeat   

• Being unable to stand 

Bring your pets to a veterinarian if these symptoms are present. 

Going camping?  

When going on a camping or road trip, it’s important to plan ahead  and to tell someone where you’re going. In addition to your typical camping supplies, make sure your first aid kit is stocked with supplies to handle small cuts, sprains, insect stings, sunburns, and bruises. It’s also important to share your travel plans and destination with a trusted friend or family member in case of emergency. 

Avoid Injuries at the Grill 

It can be easy to get distracted while barbecuing, so here’s a few reminders for how to keep your grilling space safe. Make sure you don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals are ignited, this can cause the flames to get out of control. Always grill outdoors in an open space with proper ventilation. Your grill should be a safe distance away from your home or any personal property, it is recommended to be at least 10 feet. Make sure you use long handled tools while grilling and  keep kids and pets a safe distance from the open flames to avoid accidents. 

Of course, the most important thing you can do to protect yourself is make sure your coverage doesn’t have any gaps. If you need to check that your policies protect what’s important to you, we’re always just a phone call away! We want to make sure you can be stress-free all summer long! Call or text us today at 360-514-9550 for any questions about staying protected this summer.