The dog days of summer are upon us. It is vacation season, and employees are likely to spend more time outdoors on home-improvement projects and other leisure activities. With so much emphasis on job safety, it’s easy to forget that most injuries and illnesses actually happen away from work. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that roughly only a quarter of all unintentional injuries are job-related. These off-the-job hazards should concern employers and employees.


People face a great risk every day driving a car with the chance of being involved in a motor-vehicle accident.More people travel during the summertime, so the likelihood of being involved in a crash is increased.


Since distracted driving is becoming a greater hazard, here are some tips that can help prevent accidents. Limit passengers’ use of noisemakers or loud games. Refrain from operating GPS devices while in motion. Avoid using cell phones while driving. In the event you need to use these devices, pull over to a safe location, such as a rest area. It is also important to avoid arguing or emotional conversations while driving.


Additional safety strategies include ensuring luggage or coolers are placed in such a manner that visibility is not obstructed through any window or mirror; driving the speed limit; and using appropriate signals. Routine and preventative maintenance should also be conducted before taking any long-distance trip.


Summer conditions can also lead to an increased risk of health problems. Although sunburn can occur year round, the highest risk of exposure occurs during the summer months. On and off the job, sun exposure can result in sunburn and other heat-related illnesses. Sunburn can be painful and cause long-term health complications; overexposure to sunlight has been linked to skin cancer. Always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors.


Symptoms of sunburn include red, warm and tender skin; swollen skin; blistering; headache; fever; nausea; and fatigue. The symptoms usually last three to five days. In addition to the skin, eyes also can get burned from sun exposure. If eyes get sunburned, they may become red, dry and painful and feel gritty. Avoid sun damage to eyes by wearing hats and sunglasses.


Being outdoors in high temperatures or humid conditions also increases the risk of other heat-related illnesses (e.g., heat exhaustion and heat stroke) caused by heat stress. Heat exhaustion is caused by dehydration. 


Heat stroke is the most dangerous of all heat-related injuries. When it occurs, the body loses the ability to regulate its own temperature. In an effort to avoid these ailments, one should wear a hat that allows air circulation around the head. Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine and very cold drinks. Caffeine can cause dehydration, and cold drinks may cause stomach cramps.


Fire dangers and burns are other major summer hazards. Be mindful when using fire pits, barbecues and campfires. Improper use can cause serious injury or death. When around open flames, keep children and pets away; position the fire away from walls, fences or other structures, especially wooden construction that can ignite; keep a fire extinguisher on hand; and avoid the use of flammable liquids such as gasoline to start a fire. Be diligent, and ensure all fires are extinguished when you are finished.


Of course, some on-the-job best practices transition well when employees go home. For example, when working on home-improvement projects, it is important to use sturdy ladders in good condition. Typical ladder-safety measures apply here, too.


“Make sure the ladder is the right height and the right type for the job,” said Karla Simon, Industrial Hygienist, U.S. Army Public Health Command. “Use nonconductive ladders for electrical work.” 


She also recommended that people examine tools and equipment before using them to ensure they are in good working condition.


Finally, one activity that does not mix well with any of these potential hazards is drinking alcohol. Alcohol consumption can be very dangerous when mixed with the sun, heat and other summer activities. Like caffeine, it causes dehydration, but it also impairs motor skills and cognitive function. Drink responsibly by designating a driver, employing moderation and knowing your limits. Never operate a boat or machinery, go swimming, or play with fire or fireworks while intoxicated.


These are but a few common off-the-job summer hazards. There are many more. Be safe and enjoy the summer, but be sure to practice safe living strategies both on and off the job whenever possible. If you would like more information regarding on- or off-the-job safety, visit www.osha.gov.