Tips

Summer fun should include safety

The official start of summer is just around the corner. It’s important to remember some common tips to enjoy the season safely.

Have fun at home safely

If you’re thinking of adding an above-ground pool for the kids or planning to do some landscaping, OPPD reminds you to put safety first. Here are some key points to remember so your family can enjoy the warm weather safely.

• Be mindful of the electrical equipment on your property. Lines can be both overhead and underground, depending on your area. Safety codes require homeowners to honor clearances between pools and power lines.
• Remember: Water and electricity DO NOT mix. Please respect the equipment on your property.
• If you are installing a pool or working on landscaping, call 811 before you begin to dig or insert stakes. Calling this number is easy – and it’s the law. The service will locate any underground power lines and other utility infrastructure for you to avoid, such as gas and water lines.
• When placing a pool in your yard, remember to be at least 22 feet away from any overhead power lines. Also be aware of the proximity to power lines when erecting a trampoline in your back yard, especially if you have overhead lines on your property.

Beat the heat

Summer safety should also include tips to beat the heat. Here are five tips to stay safe:

• Drink plenty of cold water to stay hydrated. If you know you’ll be outside and exerting yourself, start hydrating the day before. By the time you start feeling overly thirsty, it’s probably too late to avoid dehydration. A sports drink can help if you are sweating a lot, replacing salt and minerals.
• Find a cooler location, whether it be in the shade or retreating indoors for some air conditioning. Sometimes, it’s best to just stay inside.
• Apply cool, wet cloths to your neck and wrists to cool down quickly.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing loose and light-colored clothing. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
• Limit outdoor activity, especially during midday – typically the hottest part of the day.

Remaining properly hydrated is an important part of summer safety. The graphic below depicts some of the common signs of dehydration.