AS the summer holidays get underway, families and friends are eager to embrace the season’s festivities, from vibrant community events hosted by Bradford Council to adventures in the great outdoors.
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s important to stay mindful of safety while enjoying all the season has to offer. To help you make the most of your summer plans, we’ve put together some essential tips for staying safe during your favourite activities.
* Stay hydrated!
Ensure you stay hydrated. Water is essential for our bodies, especially to prevent heat exhaustion. If signs of heat exhaustion are already showing, avoid sugary and alcoholic beverages, as these can dehydrate you further. Instead choose water, coconut water, or isotonic drinks to replenish lost electrolytes.
Take regular breaks from being out in the sun. If possible, avoid being outside between 11am and 3 pm. If this isn’t feasible, seek shelter regularly or take cover in well-ventilated rooms. Remember to reapply your sunscreen frequently prolonged exposure to high heat can lead to heat exhaustion.
How to spot someone suffering from heat exhaustion? If the person is suffering from heat exhaustion, they will become very lethargic, confused and disorientated. Their skin will be very pale and sweaty. The first thing you need to do is take them out of direct sunlight to a shadowed area. Give them water, or ideally an isotonic drink. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a dangerous condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious damage to our organs. A person suffering from heat exhaustion will have skin that is flushed, hot and dry to the touch as their body can no longer produce sweat. Quickly cool the person down by any means possible, such as using cold water or ice packs, and call 999 for emergency help.
* Be prepared!
Whilst most festivals and large events will have first aid tents available, it is always beneficial to be prepared by carrying a small family first aid kit. Taking just the essential items during events means that security checks go smoothly and efficiently, minimising the time spent queuing. Taking large first aid kits may also be impossible with event restrictions (always check the events page for forbidden items) but you can always take a couple of plasters, ear plugs or ear defenders (to minimise the damage to ears during loud events), power bank, clearly labelled medication (such as adrenaline auto-injectors (epi-pens), inhalers etc).
Personal First Aid kits can be customised to the individual’s (or family’s) needs. Ensure you are aware of what medication you and your family are allowed to take. If you or any of your family members have a medical condition, ensure you have the information readily available for emergency services, such as medical bracelets or emergency info on your mobile device. If you are with a group of people, you could share your information with your group, if you feel comfortable.
* Insect bites and stings.
If a person has been stung by a bee or a wasp, use something that resembles a credit card (firm and thin with a flat edge). Locate the place of injury and establish which direction the sting has gone in. Place the card against the skin and swipe it in the opposite direction to what the sting has gone in. The aim is to push it out in the same direction as it has gone in.
Do not use tweezers as this may break the stinger. If there are no stingers left, elevate the area and apply an ice pack to keep the swelling down. Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions. Signs include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and dizziness. If any of these occur, seek medical help immediately.
* In case of emergency.
If you need emergency services to reach your location, the What3Words app can be invaluable. This app pinpoints your exact location using a simple three-word address, which you can share with emergency services and is especially useful in crowded venues or remote areas.
Before heading to an event or new location, familiarise yourself with the area, especially first aid stations, and share your plans with someone you trust. Be aware of signs of overcrowding, aggressive behaviour, and other risks. In crowded areas, anxiety can be a concern. Symptoms include a rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, chest pain, sweating, trembling, hot flashes or chills, dizziness, nausea, numbness, and muscle tension. If you experience these symptoms, move to a quieter space, take small sips of water, and focus on calming your breath.
For more information on managing anxiety, visit the NHS website.
By following these tips, we hope you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for you and your loved ones.
* GEM Compliance Training, based in the Little Germany, provides a wide range of first aid and health and safety training. The courses are fun and engaging for businesses, individuals, and communities.
For more information call (01274) 752777 or email info@gemcompliancetraining.co.uk
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