OCEAN COUNTY – While June is typically associated with the end of school and the start of summer, it is also known as National Safety Month. Ocean County Health Department officials are focusing on preparedness, wellness, fall prevention and driving safety during this summer season.
“It is important to remember that we live in a coastal area and we all need to do our part to keep everyone healthy and safe should we be confronted with another natural disaster,” said Daniel E. Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator. “That said, a renewed focus on wellness as we enter the vacation time of year is an ideal focus of National Safety Month.”
Regenye noted that regular doctor’s exams, healthy eating habits, moderate exercise and hydration are all ways that we can maintain our health and wellness during the summer season, as well as year-round.
“Many people may naturally pay less attention to falls and careful driving habits when snow and ice don’t serve as daily reminders…That is a reason for the focus on falls and driving during National Safety Month this year,” he added.
Officials advise residents to practice safe summer habits, such as:
- Be mindful of walking around pools and wet, smooth surfaces, particularly if you’re not wearing shoes.
- Be careful in areas where loose sand may have blown, especially if being jostled in crowds.
- Drive defensively and watch for pedestrians
- Remember to help those less agile, especially in crowds and around water.
Also, a significant part of summer safety has to do with swimming.
“Swimming is a wonderful summertime activity but healthy habits are vital. Teach your children to not swallow water and make sure you take them on bathroom breaks. Keep an eye on kids at all times; kids can drown in shallow water in seconds. Make sure you change diapers in a diaper changing area and if there is not one, move away from the pool so no germs can get into the pool,” said Regenye.
Never forget to protect yourself from the sun as the weather warms up. SPF 30 sunscreen is recommended to prevent sunburn. Reapply after swimming.
“Make sure all your children stay hydrated with plenty of water to drink while outside and make sure children’s ears are dried after swimming,” added Regenye.
For more safety information and tips, visit ochd.org.
