Safety Tips for Holiday Fun this Summer
Post Date: Jun 24, 2020
News & Press
As the summer holidays are coming up, we could all use a little time to relax, unwind, and getaway. And while you do that, it’s important to keep safety in mind to maximize fun and enjoy the long days of summer. Here are some ways to stay safe while you enjoy your free time this season.
Fun with Fireworks
You know summer’s really getting going when the 4th of July arrives, and with the festivities comes everyone’s favorite spectacle: fireworks. How can you stay safe while fighting off these mini bombs?
The National Safety Council (NSC) gives a helpful list of tips on using fireworks without harm. Some of the highlights include making sure you purchase legal fireworks only, never light fireworks inside a container or while you’re holding them, use them only in open areas away from other people, and closely supervise any children who are old enough to light them.
Increase Safety on Road Trips
Let’s be honest: there’s a lot that most of us could do to be safer drivers. Whether that means putting cell phones on do not disturb while you’re heading down the highway, or pulling over to take a nap if you’re nodding off, ensure you’re doing everything you can to keep protected and secure on road trips.
In Montana, you never know when you’ll encounter animals on the road. The Automobile Association of America (AAA) advises you to slow down at night and in low light, scan the highway’s edges well ahead of you, and use your high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic. According to AAA, swerving can lead to more severe accidents if you can’t avoid a collision, brake firmly, and stay in your lane. Help stay safe and stay alert.
Tips for Car Seat Use
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends leaving your child in a rear-facing car seat as long as possible—until they reach the maximum height and weight. Always follow the car seat laws in your state to help protect your precious cargo.
The Mayo Clinic advises that you use caution when you purchase a used car seat. Don’t just get the best deal to save money. Make sure that the car seat comes with the original user manual and serial number, so you can have proper installation instructions and track any possible recalls. Call your local fire department about car seat fitting events to get seats professionally installed.
Summer Trips with COVID-19
When traveling in a COVID-19 world, it’s clear that there’s a lot to think about. Be sure to know what restrictions or lockdowns exist at your destination. Even if you prefer to travel spontaneously, now is probably the time to plan ahead a little, while remaining flexible in case conditions or restrictions change at the last minute. Here are some factors to take into consideration when you’re planning a trip this summer.
Those CDC guidelines we’ve gotten so familiar with still apply when out on the road. Bring along hand sanitizer and wipes, cover coughs and sneezes, wear a cloth mask, maintain 6 feet for social distancing from others, disinfect surfaces that others have touched, and wash or sanitize your hands often, especially before eating.
According to Joe Allen, an assistant professor, and director of the Healthy Buildings Program at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, when you’re considering flying, know that increased air quality and consistent filtration improves safety an interview with National Geographic. But he adds that high-touch surfaces on trains, buses, and subways, and lack of social distancing in spots like security lines, make those likely spots to pick up a bug.
How about road travel? The CDC warns that while you may be safer in your own car or RV than on shared transportation, you still have gas stations, rest stops, and restaurants to contend with. Be sure to take measures to protect yourself and your family in public spaces.
Whatever you may be doing this 4th of July, have fun and stay safe. CHP is here to be your partner for your healthcare, wherever your adventures take you. Schedule an appointment today, or talk to us about getting your 2020 Wellness Check, and we can work together to help you live your healthiest life.
