Be Safe This Summer!

School’s out for the summer, and congratulations to everyone who made an impact this year! Even though this is a time for relaxation, there are still some things to keep in mind before you start your summer activities! This spot is brought to you by Benchmark Credit Union The first topic is water safety. The risk of drowning increases during summer months, so taking the time to teach kids how to swim could save their life. While boating, life jackets for kids 12 and under are state required to be worn at all times. While we’re on the topic of water, make sure to drink the recommended 8 to 10 glasses of water, which is about half a gallon a day, to keep your body happy and healthy. The next tip for summer safety is sun control. A few cases of serious sunburn can affect a child’s risk for skin cancer at later ages. The biggest tips to remember are to seek shade whenever necessary, cover up as much as possible, wear SPF 30 on any exposed skin, and don’t forget to wear your sunglasses! The last tip for summer safety is about bugs. Mosquito’s and ticks run rampant during the summer months and knowing how to manage them can prevent viruses and Lyme disease from being transmitted. Use EPA registered insect repellents anytime you or a child are outside. Follow the instructions on the label and remember if you are also applying sunscreen, the sunscreen goes first, and the insect repellent last. For more information, check out the center for disease control, at cdc.gov.