Every summer there are sad stories of harm or even death related to unsafe behaviors. Some of the stories that come to mind include danger related to drownings, fires, falls, and car accidents. Making the time to talk to your family members about spring/summer safety can help them to stay safe. As an educator, I always had a spring/summer safety talk with my students, and for the most part, students knew how to avoid and what to do in dangerous situations.
Here are some of the talking points you can share:
There's Safety in Numbers
For the most part, no one should be adventuring alone. There's safety in numbers.
Do your research before any adventure.
Read the safety warnings related to the adventures you plan or places you'll visit. Know what to look out for. Also know the kind of equipment you'll need for the weather, terrain, and social expectations of that place. Pack related safety supplies.
Bike safety
Riding bikes is lots of fun, but there are risks. Wear a helmet! It's not worth getting a serious injury or death because you unexpectedly get in a bike accident or fall off your bike. Stay about 8" away from the edge of the road--if you're to close to the road, cars often don't give you the space you need or notice you on the bike. Of course, bike paths are best.
Car safety
Drive within speed limits. Avoid erratic drivers. Don't drink and drive, and don't drive when you are exhausted. If your car has problems, get those problems fixed.
Water safety
Don't swim alone, and if you do purchase a colorful safety device that you can drag with you or wear if needed. Swim where there are lifeguards and water safety patrols. Every summer people drown because they think they can swim better than they can, they venture into unknown murky waters, they fool around dangerously in the water, or they swim alone--beware of those behaviors. Also, no children should swim alone or in places without lifeguards.
Fire safety
Make sure your family members know about the dangers of accelerants like gasoline. Every child, especially children who are home alone, should be taught about fire safety and cautioned not to start fires in their homes, yards, or nearby woods. As a child, in my neighborhood, we lost a number of teens due to a big fire in the woods, and as an educator, a child at our school was dangerously burned due to playing with fire and accelerants.
Stranger safety
This is the time of year when children are at greater danger of errant strangers. Teach your children about stranger safety. I taught in what many would consider a safe community yet there were a number of stranger danger events that occurred throughout my tenure there. If children don't go it alone and know how to avoid danger with strangers, they'll be better off.
Boat and Electric Vehicle Safety
Watch safety videos before using boats and other motorized vehicles--know how to have fun but be safe too. Wear life preservers in boats!
Take the time to help your loved ones be safe this spring and summer. Research the safety related to any adventure you do, and know that there is safety in numbers. Accidents will happen--they always do, but if you spend some time talking about safety up front and doing your homework, you and your loved ones will likely have a safer, more fun spring and summer.