However, did you know that the highest rates of unintentional injuries occur during the summer?
Observed annually in June, National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road, and in our homes and communities.
Here are some ways to stay safe while indoors and outdoors:
Underage Drinking
Did you know more kids take their first drink in June or July than at any other time of year?
It is comforting to know that most kids do not engage in alcohol abuse; however, those who do face huge risks to their health and safety.
Education and parental involvement play big roles in curbing underage drinking. Take the time to frequently talk with your children about the dangers of underage drinking.
Helmet Safety
Helmets can be life-saving and can protect you from serious injury.
An appropriate, properly fitted helmet must be worn whenever you are “on wheels.”
This means motorcycles, bicycles, scooters, skates, rollerblades, skateboards, and more.
Heat Safety
Keeping yourself well hydrated is very important. Both adults and children should regularly drink fluids, particularly water.
Playing in the hot summer sun means lots of fluid losses, so avoid strenuous activity during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Look for shade and take lots of breaks.
Seek medical attention immediately for any signs of heat-related illness.
Rabies Exposure
Rabies exposure will result in a serious illness, so it is very important that you be aware of the potential for rabies and the risks associated with wild and stray animals.
Never try to pet a stray or injured animal.
If bitten or scratched, immediately wash the area with soap and clean running water for 15 minutes. You should visit your physician or emergency room for wound care and assessment of the need for antibiotics, tetanus vaccine, and further assessment for rabies vaccine.
Report the incident to the Animal Control Unit in your area as well as your local health department.
Tick Bites
Ticks are responsible for a variety of illnesses including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. These diseases can be very serious.
Some suggestions to avoid tick bites include wearing tick/bug repellant, protective clothing including long sleeves and long pants, and performing tick checks on all family members every day. The summer also provides great opportunities for children to spend time outdoors and participate in a variety of educational, environmental, and recreational opportunities.
Play Days
The Roanoke Valley Community Health Initiative will sponsor several play days throughout the community this summer at the following days/locations:
July 21, Halifax Municipal Park from 4-6 p.m.
August 18, Ledgerwood Park, Roanoke Rapids from 4-6 p.m.
The Halifax County Library System will support our children by offering free lunches to children from 3-18 years old. For more information contact Barb or Ginny at 252-583-3631.
Here at Halifax County Public Health System, we are providing an opportunity for our youth to volunteer at one of our various locations.
Students will obtain real work experience and community service learning hours that can be included in their college portfolios. For more information contact Ta-Tenesha Majette at 252-583-5021 x 258. Warm weather brings more opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and it is important for families to practice safe habits! Unintentional injuries can be avoided … Because Public Health Matters!
For more information about how public health is working for you, contact HCPHS Health Department at 252-583-5021.
Also, you can like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hcphs and follow us on Twitter @HCPHS_NC.
