Now summer is upon us, we look forward to travelling, taking holidays, attending events and enjoying more time outdoors. There are some simple things we can all do to stay safe throughout summer and to keep illness at bay as we enjoy the longer days and better weather.
The weather can affect our health, particularly in those who are more vulnerable or have long-term health conditions. If hot weather hits this summer, you can help protect yourself and others by following these top tips.
HOME SAFETY
- Staying cool indoors – closing curtains on rooms that face the sun can keep the temperature lower in indoor spaces
- Theft – Open windows are an invite for thieves, so please be mindful when out in the garden that your home may be more at risk of unwanted visitors. For example, keep windows closed at the front of your home if you are out in the back garden etc.
- Lock up tools – It’s easy to leave gardening tools, hoses, or even the lawnmower sitting out, but these items are dangerous for children and pets. They can also be more at risk of being stolen. Always put tools away.
- Food – Don’t leave food outside of the fridge for long periods to help prevent food poisoning. Washing your hands before preparing food and after handing raw meat can also help prevent bacteria spreading. Keep food covered to prevent insects coming into contact with it. Learn more about BBQ food safety here.
FIRE SAFETY
BBQs – Cooking on a barbecue is great fun, but it can also be dangerous, especially if the cook is distracted by friends and family or they’ve been drinking alcohol. Remember, barbecues should never be used on a balcony. For more advice visit the GMFRS website or download their leaflet.
If you live in a property with a balcony, here’s some of our top tips on balcony safety advising of extra special care you need to be aware of, especially at this time of year.
To reduce the risk of fire on a balcony:
- Do not use barbeques on balconies under any circumstances
- Never store flammable materials like gas tanks on your balcony
- Reduce clutter and keep items on the balcony to a minimum
- If you smoke, make sure you stub cigarettes out and never flick them over the balcony. A covered ashtray is safest
- If you hang up any lights, please ensure they are suitable for outdoor use
If you have any concerns about Fire Safety in your home, please contact us on 0300 555 0128.
PERSONAL SAFETY
- Sunscreen – Use sunscreen suitable for your skin type
- Stay Hydrated – Drink water or drinks with electrolytes regularly to avoid dehydration and heat stroke. Wear light-coloured and lightweight clothing to avoid trapping heat
- Pet protection – Animals are prone to overheating just like the rest of us. Keep pets comfortable to help regulate temperature, and don’t forget to keep your playful pals hydrated.
- Vehicles – Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
- Insect bites – Cover exposed skin if you’re outside at a time of day when insects are particularly active, such as sunrise or sunset. Wearing loose clothing and keeping shoes on can help you avoid bites. Apply insect repellent to exposed skin and be mindful that mosquitoes and horseflies are commonly found near water.
- Heatwaves – Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
- Heat of the day – Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when its strongest. If you do need to go out, try to walk in the shade and avoid taking dogs out in the heat of the day, their paws burn and blister easily.
COVID-19
COVID-19 has not gone away, we are all learning to live with it. However in recent weeks we have seen a small, but steady increase in cases. We can all follow simple steps to help protect ourselves, family and friends.
If you have any symptoms of a respiratory infection and a high temperature or feel unwell, try to stay at home or away from others – especially those who are elderly or vulnerable. If you are meeting others indoors you should let lots of fresh air in. Open some windows to help with ventilation and in the sunny weather you could also plan to meet outside.
We should all continue to practice good hand hygiene, frequently washing our hands for 20 seconds with hot water and soap. It might also be a good idea to wear a face covering in a crowded space such as public transport. We should all continue to follow the most up-to date guidance which can be found here.
From all of us here at S4B, we wish you safe and enjoyable summer.