Guest Column — Hot Topics

Warm weather safety tips

As the summer arrives, help prevent a tragedy

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Summer is here, school is out and our days are focused on spending more time outdoors. While activities in the sun and heat are enjoyable, we can't ignore the safety concerns that come with it. In the summer time, Long Beach's population of 35,000 often doubles.

People are outside and more active in nice weather, and it is important to pay attention to your surroundings. You may be the person helping prevent a tragedy or going to help someone in need. It is always better to prevent a bad event instead of trying to mitigate it, so here are a few tips to help stay safe. 

Warm weather 

Hot weather affects each person differently, as the elderly and children are more vulnerable to heat illnesses. Make sure to stay properly hydrated.  Water is best. Caffeinated, alcoholic or sugary drinks can dehydrate you. Stay away from energy drinks as well if you plan on being in the sun for a while. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and plenty of sun block as well. Remember if you feel like you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. 

Yard work safety

Many of us have already started cleaning and maintaining our yards. Make sure that all your power equipment is in good working condition. Visually inspect all your tools before each use, especially before you use them for the first time this season.   Make sure gas-fueled equipment has fresh gas and the proper oils. Disconnect all power sources before you check lawn mowers and all other equipment with sharp moving parts. Don't do yard work in sandals; it can lead to tripping or other injuries.  

BBQ and grill safety

Before you use you a gas or charcoal grill this season, give it a thorough cleaning and make sure it isn't damaged or corroded.  Built-up grease and soot can lead to a fire or a malfunction. Check your propane tank and all its connections to make sure it doesn't have any cracks or leaks.  Have it checked by a professional if it looks like it may be compromised. When barbecuing, never leave a grill unattended. Maintain at least a three-foot separation of the grill from anything flammable or combustible, like a fence, shed or side of a house. 

Water safety

Drowning is a very real issue. It is always better to prevent a drowning situation than try to fix it. Never swim alone; never swim without a lifeguard. A child can drown in any depth of water, so never leave a child unattended near sprinklers or a kiddy pool.  If in the event someone needs to be rescued, remember Reach-Throw-Row-Go. Don't attempt to rescue a person in water you are not comfortable going into, as you may become a victim as well. 

When you are out enjoying the beautiful weather, remember to wear the proper safety equipment when bike riding or playing contact sports. Also take an extra second when you are crossing the street when walking, running or riding your bike.  Pay attention to your surroundings and don't be distracted. Keep a lookout for distracted drivers who may not see you.  

The summer is a time for fun and happy memories, so let's keep it that way.

Lt. Sam Pinto is a career firefighter, paramedic, nationally certified fire instructor, and certified fire and life safety educator. He can be reached at SPinto@iaff287.org.