Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities, fun, and relaxation with your family. However, it also brings a higher risk of accidents, especially with the increased time spent outside. From swimming to biking, the opportunities for fun are endless—but so are the chances for bumps, scrapes, and more serious injuries. That’s why staying aware of potential hazards and following smart safety tips can ensure a fun-filled and safe summer for everyone.
Why Summer Brings More Risks
Summer means longer days, warmer weather, and more spontaneous outdoor play, but these factors also increase the likelihood of accidents. According to the CDC, the number of emergency room visits spikes during the summer months, particularly among children and teens. By staying informed and prepared, you can minimize the risks and enjoy everything summer has to offer.
Heat-Related Illnesses: Staying Cool is Crucial
Texas heat can be dangerous, especially when combined with outdoor activities. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures or vigorous physical exertion can lead to heat exhaustion or, in extreme cases, heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Watch for:
- Heavy sweating followed by dry, hot skin
- Dizziness, nausea, or headaches
- Rapid breathing or increased heart rate
- Confusion or fainting
Head to the ER if:
- Someone becomes disoriented, loses consciousness, or stops sweating entirely.
To prevent heat-related illness, make sure to stay hydrated, take breaks in shaded areas, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Swimming Injuries: Drowning and Near Drownings
Water activities are a summer favorite, but they come with serious risks, especially for children. According to the American Red Cross, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for children under 14, particularly during the summer months.
Common swimming-related injuries include:
- Head injuries from diving
- Breathing difficulties from inhaling water
- Submersion injuries
- Slips and falls near the pool
Go to the ER if:
- There’s any sign of breathing trouble, a head injury, or confusion after a swim. Complications like secondary drowning can occur hours after a near-drowning incident, so always err on the side of caution and seek medical care.
Sports and Playground Injuries: Keeping Play Safe
Active summer play, whether it’s backyard games or sports, can lead to injuries like sprains, fractures, and concussions. These injuries are especially common when kids and teens are playing rough or getting involved in high-impact sports.
What to watch for:
- Swelling or bruising
- Difficulty moving or bearing weight on a limb
- Sharp, persistent pain
- Visible bone deformities or dislocations
When to go to the ER:
- If a joint looks out of place, a limb is immobile, or there’s severe pain and swelling, seek immediate care. Quick diagnosis can help ensure proper treatment and avoid long-term problems.
Insect Bites and Stings: What to Do When Things Sting
Summer means spending more time outdoors, and that can bring encounters with mosquitoes, bees, ticks, and other insects. While most bites are harmless, some can cause severe allergic reactions or infections.
Watch for signs of:
- Significant swelling at the bite site
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Hives, rashes, or dizziness
- Fever or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite
Seek emergency care if:
- You notice signs of anaphylaxis, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing. If a bite becomes red, painful, and warm, it might be infected and require medical attention.
Burn Injuries: Fireworks, Grilling, and Hot Surfaces
Summer celebrations often involve fireworks, sparklers, and barbecues, but these activities can lead to burns. Even sparklers can reach temperatures up to 2,000°F and cause serious injuries.
Types of burns:
- First-degree: Red, painful skin
- Third-degree: White or charred skin, often painless due to nerve damage
Go to the ER if:
- The burn is large, deep, or affects the face or hands. Burns that cause blisters or involve sensitive areas should always be treated with care, especially in children.
Dehydration: Stay Hydrated and Keep Cool
Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially when you’re spending lots of time outdoors. It’s especially common in hot weather and among kids and older adults.
Early signs of dehydration:
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or dizziness
Emergency signs include:
- Extreme thirst or an inability to keep fluids down
If dehydration becomes severe, visit the ER for IV hydration and further care.
Cuts and Scrapes: Minor Injuries Can Lead to Complications
Minor cuts and scrapes are common during summer activities, but deep or dirty wounds can lead to infections. It’s essential to treat these injuries properly to avoid complications.
Head to the ER if:
- Bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of applying pressure.
- The injury was caused by a rusty or dirty object (a tetanus shot may be necessary).
Conclusion: Keep Summer Fun, but Safe
Summer is meant to be full of joy, family adventures, and healthy outdoor activities. By staying aware of potential dangers—whether it’s from heat exhaustion, water activities, or everyday play—you can minimize risks and keep your family safe while having fun. Remember to wear the proper protective gear, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention whenever necessary. With these precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy the best of what summer has to offer, all while keeping safety in mind.
