posted June 29, 2022

Summer is in full swing. For many of us, summer means being surrounded by loved ones at the beach, lake, and mountains making memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re hiking through Yellowstone National Park or barbecuing beachside in Pensacola, we want the memories made this summer to continue to be positive ones. From all of us at Air Methods, please make safety your priority this holiday.

As we close out National Safety Month and head into the holiday weekend, keep in mind these best practices for health and safety this summer:

It’s HOT! Remember to stay COOL. Who doesn’t love being outdoors in the summer? From swimming, to sports, to grilling, keep in mind that in some regions of the country temperatures are going to soar into the 100s.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) defines extreme heat as summertime temperatures that are much hotter than average or humidity that is higher than average. Under these conditions, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. While children and older adults are at the highest risk for a heat-related illness, anyone doing strenuous physical activity when it’s hot can be affected. Learn the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and how to respond. For example, heat stroke is a medical emergency that causes temps to spike to 103°F or higher. If someone has heat stroke, dial 911 right away. Key signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating and cold, pale, and clammy skin. Move them to a cool place, loosen clothing, and have them take a cool bath.

Follow these additional safety tips from the CDC when spending time outdoors:

• Stay cool by wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Don’t wait until you are thirsty. Drink plenty of water and drinks that replace salt and minerals, such as sports beverages. Avoid alcoholic or sugary drinks, which can cause dehydration.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and a broad-spectrum or UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
• Go inside regularly to cool off in an air-conditioned environment.
• Exercise during cooler hours, go slower, and take frequent breaks.

Enjoy fireworks safely. Fireworks are often the main attraction of the July 4^th holiday. As you enjoy these events, it’s essential to keep in mind the dangers of fireworks. According to US Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 11,5000 people were sent to hospital emergency departments in 2021 for firework related injuries.

The CPSC and CDC offer the following commonsense precautions:

• Do not allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Light fireworks one at a time and move away quickly (also wear protective eyewear).
• Be ready with water in case of a fire.
• Don’t mix alcohol/drugs with fireworks.
• Protect your ears and move away from loud fireworks, which can cause ear damage.

Make a safe travel plan. The roads, beaches, parks, and trails will be crowded with travelers this summer. Before the fun can begin, create your safe travel plan. Plan to have a designated driver who will abstain from alcohol and drugs and will be alert and ready to take the wheel during activities and long days on the road. When possible, don’t drive late at night to avoid impaired drivers.

EMS workers are here to provide lifesaving care. While an emergency is the last thing on your mind, should one occur, thousands of hardworking EMS workers will have you covered this summer. Additionally, our talented community of pilots, mechanics, and clinical professionals who cover more than 300 bases across 49 states are ready to provide access to lifesaving care at the moment it is needed most.