Enjoy the Summer - Yard Work Safety Tips

Every year the changing of the seasons brings millions of Americans outside to do seasonal yard work. The hot summer months in between spring and fall are a time of outdoor fun and relaxation but they are also is a time of more outdoor yard work. Gardens need to be planted and cared for, lawns need mowing and weeds need to be wacked.  For many people yard work is a form of fun and enjoyment. Sadly, it is also a time of aches, pains and injuries. The following safety precautions and tips will help keep you safe and injury free while you are working in your yard;

Take 5 to 10 minutes to warm up your muscles by doing light exercises or stretching before starting your yard work.

Dress properly for working outside in the yard by wearing long pants, a long sleeved shirt and sturdy comfortable shoes.

Keep children and pets away from the area when you are doing yard work.

Have the right tools for the job you are doing.

Rakes should be comfortable and the right size for your height and strength.

Wear gloves while you are doing any type of yard work to help prevent your hands from blistering.

Yard work such as raking involves repetitive motions. Changing your position often helps to prevent muscle pains and cramps from occurring.

Always watch for low branches, large rocks and tree stumps.

Be aware of uneven ground surfaces and slopes.

When you pick up leaves, do not bend over from the waist. Bend from the knees.

Do not overfill leaf bags.

Do not carry full bags of leaves over your shoulder.

When you are weeding, a half kneeling position is safer than bending forward.

Wet leaves are very slippery. Make sure to wear boots or shoes with soles that are slip resistant

When you are using a ladder make certain it is firmly on the ground. Never climb to the top of a ladder.

When you are pruning hedges, hold the pruning shears close to your body.

Enjoy the Summer - General Safety Tips

Everyone loves summer vacation with its lazy days, picnics, swimming, biking, visits to the park, and more. A few simple reminders can make your summer a safe one.

Storm Safety for Summer

Summer is also the season of lightning storms and other weather events. From tornados to dust storms, safety training for severe weather can make a big difference in the health and security of your family. Take some time to review the basics, including assembling an emergency supply kit and assigning a meeting spot in the safest area of your home.

Fire Safety

Whether you're gathered around the backyard fire pit or toasting marshmallows on a camping trip, knowing where and how to safely build a fire, as well as how to put out a fire that gets out of control, can keep you and your children safe.

Bike Safety

Kids and adults alike love riding bikes in the summer. As part of your seasonal safety discussion, don't forget to include practical bike safety like choosing a bike that fits and wearing a helmet. Teaching and enforcing bike safety in your family can save lives.

Summer Heat Safety

In addition to its burning potential, the sun can also cause people to overheat, particularly in the long, hot summer days. Observing safety tips can help prevent heatstroke and dehydration during fun activities or outside work.

Enjoy the Summer - Backyard Fire Safety Tips

Nothing says "summer" like a backyard BBQ or holiday picnic, but these fun activities also present a number of safety hazards. According to a report from the US fire Administration, summer is one of the most dangerous seasons for fire-related injuries and deaths. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to protect yourself and your loved ones while still having a great time. By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, you can enjoy many wonderful times in the great outdoors filled with laughter, happiness and safety.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are another important safety hazard in the summer months. In fact, the report from the United States Fire Safety Administration says that summer fires peak over Fourth of July weekend. Be sure to read up on fireworks safety tips to keep your celebration accident-free.


 

Grills and Outdoor Cooking Safety

Summer is all about grilling outside, but this type of food preparation can also be hazardous. Be sure to research outdoor cooking safety before you get out your grill for the season.

 

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venturi tubes – where the air and gas mix – are not blocked.
• Do not overfill the propane tank.
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
• Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
• Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
• Dispose of hot coals properly – douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
• Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas – carbon monoxide could be produced.

Create a Safety Zone Around Your House

FEMA recommends clearing all dry vegetation and debris from around your home, keeping a clear area that extends 30 to 100 feet from your house. Get rid of dry grass, leaves, vines, fallen branches, firewood, and other flammable materials within this area. Mow your grass to keep it short, and never store rags with oil or gasoline near your home.

Help Firefighters Find Your House

If firefighters need to get to your house, it's best if the property is clearly marked. Make sure your house number is clearly visible from the street.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enjoy the Summer - Fire Safety Tips for Travel

Nothing says "summer" like a road trip or vacation , but these fun activities also present a number of safety hazards. According to a report from the US fire Administration, summer is one of the most dangerous seasons for fire-related injuries and deaths. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to protect yourself and your loved ones while still having a great time. By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, you can enjoy many wonderful times filled with laughter, happiness and safety.

 

Choose a Fire-Safe Motel or Hotel

When staying at a motel or hotel, choose one that has a fire sprinkler system and smoke alarms. Ask at the front desk clerk about the fire notification system and what the fire alarm sounds like. Review the fire escape plan posted in the room. Read the checklist for hotel fire safety before you settle in for the night.

Identify the Exits

Whether you're in a hotel or a restaurant or a museum, always make sure you are familiar with where the closest exits are located. This will be very important if a fire breaks out.

Don't Throw Lit Cigarettes out of the Car

Never throw a lit cigarette, match, or cigar out of a car window or onto the ground. It could ignite dry vegetation or even in rare circumstances, ignite fumes from your vehicle.