Summer is here in Forsyth, Illinois and it is heating up fast. June was Summer Safety Month, and as the temperature rises, it can be especially dangerous for children, older adults, those with special needs, and pets. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency released some helpful tips for managing the heat all summer long.
Vehicle Safety
It is known that children and pets can overheat when left in a vehicle during hot months. Parents, guardians, nannies, babysitters, and even daycare centers offering transportation should develop a routine to check every backseat every time for a child or pet. Some helpful ideas are to put a purse, wallet, or cell phone in the back seat to help remember to check it.
Outdoor Safety
High temperatures are known to cause heat-related illnesses like sunburn, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. If a family member or neighbor is working in the yard or spending time outside in the sun, be sure to check on them regularly to avoid these illnesses. Give pets plenty of shade to get out of the sun and consider allowing them to come inside or provide a cooling pet house. When the temperatures rise, limit your time outside and drink plenty of water. Also, ensure that air conditioners and fans are in proper working order.
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Quick Tips
- Know the buzz terms: Heat Wave, Excessive Heat Watch, Heat Advisory, Excessive Heat Warning, and Heat Index.
- Do not leave children or pets in a vehicle, even for a few minutes.
- Check out friends, neighbors, and the elderly
- Stay out of the sun
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn.
Check the weather daily and monitor the temperature throughout the day to have a safe summer.