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Red Cross Summer Safety Tips
Protect your family from illness and accidents this summer.
According to the Red Cross, “Whatever kind of vacation people are planning, sprains and falls are some of the most common misfortunes they may face. Sprains are the most common injury for someone on a cruise, along with contusions and other superficial wounds. Going to the mountains? Falls are the biggest threat, many due to poor decision-making, lack of skill or not being properly prepared. Dehydration is also a danger. People planning a camping trip face the same dangers.”
The organization also recommends that vacationers pack appropriate clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen and first aid items. Include soap, tweezers, wound gel, personal medication and items such as fever reducers, fungal creams and pain relievers
The Red Cross offers these tips for typical vacation woes:
- Stung by a jellyfish? Wash liberally with vinegar as soon as possible for at least 30 seconds. If vinegar isn’t available, make a thick mixture of baking soda and water.
- Mosquitoes biting? Ideally the first step is to prevent mosquito bites. If not, use an over-the-counter product to reduce the itch and urge to scratch.
- Sick stomach? Keep the person hydrated and take a medication made specifically for someone with tummy woes.
- Too long in the sun? Get out of the sun, cool the area and use topical pain relief medication if needed.
- Blisters? Leave it alone to protect the area. If the blister may cause further injury, puncture at the base, clean and protect with another barrier such as a bandage.
- Allergic reaction? Remove the person from the allergen; give them oral antihistamines if needed. If the situation is life-threatening, consider the use of epinephrine.
If you or a love one have experienced an accident while on vacation and you’d like to discuss your rights, contact us immediately at 866-732-6700.
