#KeepEachOtherSafe

5 Summer Safety Tips for Seniors

Let's begin this summer by raising our awareness of safety and by working together
to keep each other safe. Every 4 minutes, someone dies from something that is 100% preventable. National Safety Month is a call
​to action to reverse this trend. 
#KeepEachOtherSafe

1. Beat the Heat – Stay Hydrated by drinking extra water and taking frequent breaks when working in the heat. Age-related changes in renal functions, thirst perception, and use of medications increase the chances of dehydration in older people. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks can leave you dehydrated so it’s best to keep these drinks at a minimum.
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2. Hazardous Highways – Stay alert while driving; there are many first-time, teenage drivers on the road enjoying their summer vacation. Unfortunately, the dates between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the deadliest time for teen crashes on our roadways.

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​3. Flip Flops & Falls – As cute and comfortable as they are, flip flops do not provide the stability your feet need to keep you securely grounded. When looking for summer sandals, choose ones with a solid sole and straps that keep your feet from slipping. Now you can focus on where you are stepping,  alert to possible hazards in your path.

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4. Insects & Illness – with warmer weather and humidity, the population of blood-sucking and disease-spreading insects escalates. Protect yourself with clothing and non-toxic bug repellent.
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5. Know the Signs of Heat Stroke –  flushed face,  high body temperature, no perspiration, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion, and possible seizures. Take immediate action by getting out of the heat and cooling down with ice packs or cool wet towels on the neck, armpits and groin. Do not give the person suffering from heat stroke aspirin, acetaminophen or anything to drink. Call immediately for emergency medical help.

More information on Surviving the Hot Weather and National Safety Month materials can be found at the National Safety Council website.