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Summer is the season most of us look forward to the most—long days, warm weather and outdoor fun!
Unfortunately, it’s well documented that emergency room (ER) visits spike in the summer. Why?
Summertime should be fun and carefree—but some carefree actions can lead to traumatic injuries. Taking three seconds to think before diving into a potentially reckless activity can help prevent a lot of problems.
For example, riding vehicles like a bike or a skateboard, or driving an ATV without wearing a helmet is one of those potentially reckless activities that people should rethink, says Daryl Wilson, MD, an emergency medicine physician at Edward-Elmhurst Health and Dr. G’s expert guest for Episode 45.
Listen as Dr. Wilson and Dr. G share the summer safety tips you need to know so you and your family can skip the trip to the ER.
Guest
Myths vs. Facts
“Warm-up before engaging in physical activities to reduce the chance of injury.” – Fact
If you’re doing an active, dynamic warm-up. Stretching alone may lead to a higher chance for injury.
“Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, apply it liberally and often, even on cloudy days.” – Fact
The sun can damage skin even on cloudy days. Always err on the side of too much sunscreen.
“At the beach, it’s OK for children to swim alone if they’re strong swimmers.” – Myth
Someone still needs to monitor kids in the water at all times.
“Know the signs of dehydration: dizziness, nausea, fainting, confusion and fatigue.” – Fact
Everyone should watch for these signs, especially in hot weather.
“When riding in a boat or participating in water sports, wearing a life vest is optional.” – Myth
Life vests should be mandatory, even if you’re a strong swimmer.
“It’s not necessary to supervise children around fires, grills and fireworks.” – Myth
Always supervise kids around fires, grills and fireworks. Burns are preventable.
“Wear helmets, pads and other protective equipment when riding bikes or playing sports.” – Fact
Wearing a helmet can prevent a potentially catastrophic head injury.
“Never try to re-light fireworks that don’t work properly the first time.” – Fact
An unlit firework could explode in your hands if you try to relight it.
“Keep food refrigerated or well chilled in a cooler until you’re ready to grill or serve it.” – Fact
Keeping food stored properly will prevent spoiling and cases of food poisoning.
Listener healthy OH-YEAH!
“Swimming. I love to swim” – J.G.
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