Summer is nearly here, and most of us can’t wait to enjoy it now that many restrictions have been lifted.
But if you’re feeling a little nervous about resuming social activities, then follow our checklist for a safe summer.
Being prepared and staying safe will mean you can take full advantage of the good life!
How to socialise safely
While we all know how to mingle, it’s helpful to have a reminder of how to socialise safely indoors or outdoors.
If you’re going to a crowded indoor venue, be sure to wear your face mask before entering. This could be a disposable or reusable face mask, which will help protect you from viruses and many other infections. It will also help stop you from unknowingly spreading germs around.
Be scrupulous about hand hygiene too when you’re out and about. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If they’re not available, use hand sanitiser spray regularly to keep your hands germ-free.
Barbie safety
What does summer mean to you? Maybe it conjures up the delicious smell and taste of barbecued food cooked alfresco.
If you’re planning on a barbie or two this summer, make sure you know the safety rules:
- Check your barbie is in good condition before you start using it. This is extra important if it’s not been used for some time.
- Locate it in an open space with no overhanging trees or plants that could catch fire.
- Be careful not to start a grass or forest fire around the barbie.
- Never use petrol or other accelerants to fire up your barbie. Even the smallest amount could lead to serious burns.
- Use long matches or firelighters to light your barbecue and long-handled tools for cooking.
- Make sure your food is cooked to the required temperature to avoid food poisoning. You can use a special food thermometer to check.
- After using your barbecue, wait until it has completely cooled down before touching it.
- Keep a first aid kit handy so you can deal with any minor injuries swiftly.
Stay safe in the sun…
While it’s lovely to get a bit of sun on your skin, make sure you know how to enjoy it safely.
- Avoid sunburn by staying out of the sun when it’s at its strongest, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Check the UV index where you are to know whether the sun is strong enough to burn your skin. This can happen when the index is at 3 and over.
- When you’re outside, wear clothing that covers up as much skin as possible.
- Use a water-resistant sunscreen of SPF30 or higher.
- Wear a hat with a broad brim or in Legionnaire style that will protect your head, neck, face and ears.
- Stay in the shade as much as you can.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s powerful rays.
- You should also take care not to get dehydrated. Take plenty of water and juices with you when you venture outside.
…and on the water
Summer isn’t complete without a dip in the pool or ocean. But not enjoying water safely can put you and your family at risk. This is what you need to do to stay safe:
- Get swimming lessons for any family members who don’t know how to swim or aren’t confident in the water – this includes adults as well as children.
- If you’re planning on swimming in the ocean, choose a beach with lifeguards.
- Swim between the red and yellow flags – they indicate areas that are watched by lifeguards. If the flags are completely red, this means that the beach is closed and you should not go into the water.
The following rules apply to both swimming in the ocean and pool:
- Don’t swim on your own.
- Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or after a big meal.
- Keep your kids within sight at all times.
- Make them wear brightly-coloured swimming gear so they can be spotted easily.
Celebrate summer with FeverMates
Summer is a time to rejoice in the good weather and enjoy the company of family and friends. And by following a few simple safety rules, you can make the most of this wonderful time of year.
For delivery of any of our health and safety products, including face masks and hand sanitiser in Australia, browse the FeverMates collection. Everything we stock is designed to make life more enjoyable for all the family by bringing you peace of mind. So let’s make this summer your best time of year for having safe fun!