Don’t Spend Summer in a Cast

Now that summer is finally here, you and your family are likely anxious to indulge in all sorts of outdoor activities. In order to avoid having your summer fun cut short by an accidental injury such as a slip and fall, make sure you do whatever you can to stay safe while having fun.

Some accidents can be avoided

Although not all summertime accidents are within your ability to control, reduce your risk of harm by keeping the following in mind:

• If you haven’t exercised regularly throughout the cold weather months, don’t immediately launch into activities requiring peak physical condition, such as waterskiing, rock climbing or mountain biking
• Mixing alcohol and most activities requiring attention and physical participation is a bad idea — boating, swimming and, of course, driving
• Also remember alcohol dries you out, so if all you are drinking to replenish yourself in the sun is beer, wine or cocktails, you are putting yourself at risk of dehydration and heatstroke
• Avoid swimming at beaches or in pools without lifeguards present. No matter how strong a swimmer you may be, an unexpected cramp, sudden wave or accidental fall could put your life at risk
• Don’t go it alone when it comes to hiking, climbing, canoeing or other activities that take you off the grid and away from anyone who could help you should an accident occur. At a minimum, make sure you have a cell phone or other means of contacting the outside world in case of emergency, and test that the service works in your location

Even if you take every reasonable precaution, you could suffer an injury due to others who fail in their responsibility to keep you safe from harm. Should you fall victim to an accident caused by the negligence or carelessness of another, contact our personal injury attorneys for assistance.