With the unofficial start of summer here, many people will be out having fun, either going to the beach, amusement parks or maybe their own backyards, but the American Red Cross wants people to know how to prepare for any travel-related injuries.
- American Red Cross gives advice on how to have a safe summer
- Know how to handle jellyfish stings, sun burns and mosquitoe bites
- Make sure you pack safety items
“Preparation and prevention are key components of summer safety,” stated Linda Jorge Carbone, chief executive officer of the Central Florida Region and executive director of the Tampa Bay Chapter. “If an emergency occurs, people need to know what to do until advanced medical help arrives.”
The American Red Cross suggested that if you are traveling with a group of people, know the level of ability of each person within the group.
And it’s important to know your environment. For example, sprains and falls are the most common injuries travelers usually face, the American Red Cross said.
For those who are a bit more adventurous, such as power sailing or camping, some of the most common causes of injuries are poor decision-making, lack of skill or not being properly prepared, advised the American Red Cross.
The American Red Cross also issued a list of what to do should something happen:
- Stung by a jellyfish: Wash liberally with vinegar as soon as possible for at least 30 seconds. If vinegar isn’t available, make a thick mixture of baking soda and water.
- Mosquitoes biting: Ideally the first step is to prevent mosquito bites. If not, use an over-the-counter product to reduce the itch and urge to scratch.
- Sick stomach: Keep the person hydrated and take a medication made specifically for someone with tummy woes.
- Too long in the sun: Get out of the sun, cool the area and use topical pain relief medication if needed.
- Blisters: Leave it alone to protect the area. If the blister may cause further injury, puncture at the base, clean and protect with another barrier such as a bandage.
- Allergic reaction: Remove the person from the allergen; give them oral antihistamines if needed. If the situation is life-threatening, consider the use of epinephrine.
To avoid any traveling or vacation mishaps, here is what the American Red Cross suggested: Vacationers should pack appropriate clothing, insect repellant, sunscreen and first aid items. Also include soap, tweezers, wound gel, personal medication and items such as fever reducers, fungal creams and pain relievers. And don’t forget to bring bottled. Water dehydration can be dangerous.
Remember: These aren’t just for people traveling to wonderful places. These safety tips can apply to people who just enjoy spending some quality time at and around their own home. After all, Orlando was named as the number one city for a staycation.
And sometimes going away to fabulous places also means you could be caught up in some bad weather. News 13's Hurricane Center offers a lot of helpful information, such as a prep list in case a hurricane comes your way, interactive storm-tracking maps and much more.