Expert tips for a safe and fun summer.
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- Braai, swim, and relax in the summer sun – it all sounds like fun, but it can quickly turn dangerous.
- Netcare 911 shares some tips for staying safe this summer season.
- This includes safety around fire when braaing, things to remember when swimming, and precautions you should take when spending time outdoors in the heat.
Summer is here, and along with that comes days of fun in the sun, splashing around in the pool and enjoying a braai with family and friends. It all sounds like the perfect festive season. But Netcare 911 spokesperson Sarah Kekana says it’s important not to let your guard down too much.
“Water, fire and the sun can be the elements of perfect summer days or a recipe for disaster depending on how prepared we are for the potential risks,” Kekana shares in a press statement.
To help you remain safe, Netcare has shared precautions you should take when braaing, swimming, and relaxing out in the sun.
Braai
“Spending time around a fire and outdoor cooking are characteristically South African and especially popular this time of year. Some basic precautions are necessary to keep everyone safe and prevent burns,” says Kekana.
Keep these in mind for your next braai:
– Make your fire safely away from anything flammable, including dry grass or leaves, overhanging trees, buildings or roofing.
– Keep wood, charcoal and firelighters well away from the fire – a spark can ignite materials meters away.
– Keep a bucket of water and a fire extinguisher at the ready.
– Do not use liquid fire starters.
– Remove any trip hazards around the fireplace.
– Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
– Do not wear flammable clothing when tending to a fire.
– Be aware that hot grills can cause burns, so store them safely once removed from the fire.
– Never leave a fire unsupervised; always extinguish it when you have finished.
– Save emergency contact details, including 082 911, and be ready with the Netcare App if needed.
Swimming
“The risk of drowning tragically increases with hot weather, and drowning can occur anywhere. It is important to constantly assess any potential risks around water, particularly where children are concerned,” Kekana says.
She shares tips on how to be safe while swimming:
– Never swim alone.
– Never swim in the sea, dams or rivers at night.
– Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.
– When near water, children must always be supervised by a responsible adult who is not distracted.
– Ensure children do not have access to pools, ponds, water features, baths, or even a bucket of water or an open toilet – young children can drown in just 4cm of water.
– Ensure your swimming pool is covered with a pool net or enclosed with a SABS-approved fence to prevent children from accidentally falling into the water.
– At the beach, only swim in designated areas with lifeguards and don’t swim far out.
– Remember, swimming in the sea is very different to swimming in a pool or dam, even for experienced swimmers.
– Only dive into any body of water if you can see what is below the surface, and always be sure to test the depth first.
Keep emergency contacts close
“Make a list of emergency contact numbers, including emergency medical services such as Netcare 911 on 082 911, and stick it on the fridge and anywhere that will be quick to find when needed. Keep the number saved on all cell phones and on a visible card near landline telephones,” advises Kekana.
READ MORE | Heatstroke vs heat exhaustion: How to look after yourself in a heatwave
Fun in the sun
The best part about summer is the warm weather. But we know that fun in the sun can quickly turn dangerous with the potential risk of sunburn and even heat stroke.
Take these precautions when spending time outdoors this summer:
– Sunburn is an ever-present danger. Parents must regularly apply high-protection factor sunscreen to their children.
– Outdoor activities should be avoided during the hottest part of the day.
– Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
– Senior citizens are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, so take special care to ensure that they are kept cool and well-hydrated.
– Antihistamines, diuretics, and alcohol should be avoided if you spend time in the sun.
– Never leave your child or anyone – including a pet – in a parked car, even for short periods.
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