With the summer in full swing, many people will be taking time off work. But being on vacation doesn’t eliminate the risk of getting hurt; according to the British Medical Journal, 5% of vacationers sustain an injury and 15% become ill. By practicing basic awareness and adhering to some simple safety tips, most hazardous outcomes can be prevented.

Safe driving strategies

On and off the job, road travel can be risky. More than 100 people die in motor vehicle accidents every day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even more are injured. 

Everyone can follow safe driving strategies and reduce the risk of an accident. Drivers must have a valid license for their class of vehicle, ensuring the individual has met their state’s minimum skill requirements. Additionally, this shows that the driver is familiar with all relevant traffic and safety laws. Going further, drivers should keep a constant lookout and check for blind spots, maintain slow speeds and always wear their seatbelt.

Many motor vehicle accidents are linked to distracted driving. More than half of states ban handheld cellphone use. Drivers should turn off cellphones and place them in an inaccessible location. In the event an individual needs to use his or her phone while driving, it is imperative they use a hands-free phone or Bluetooth device so they can keep both hands on the wheel at all times.

Never, ever text while driving. Texting is a growing cause of traffic-related incidents. Dialing a phone is proven to be one of the most hazardous activities a driver can perform. Drivers should also exercise caution when adjusting the radio, answering calls through car play and using GPS devices. Eating and drinking are other common distractions.

Sun and heat hazards

Spending time outdoors, whether at work or on vacation, can result in heat stress, which occurs when the body overheats and fails to regulate its internal temperature. A range of factors can contribute to it, including air temperature, presence of radiant heat sources, humidity, physical contact with hot objects, strenuous physical activity, work rate and clothing.

Heat stress indicators include visible sweating, dizziness, fainting, nausea, clumsiness and confusion. These symptoms, if left untreated, can result in rashes, cramps, heat stroke or heat exhaustion. 

To avoid heat stress, individuals should limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing and maintain a healthy weight. If you experience heat stress or heat exhaustion, take breaks in shade or an air-conditioned room, drink cool fluids and immerse yourself or splash on cold water with a fan blowing.

Prolonged sun exposure can result in sunburn and other heat-related illnesses. Sunburn can be painful and cause short- and long-term health complications. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix or cure. 

However, symptoms can be treated with aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and headache and reduce fever. To minimize sun-related maladies, wear sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes.

Slips, trips and falls

Slips, trips and falls are not limited to the job site. As a result, it is critical for individuals to pay attention to their direction of travel and the surfaces they are walking on, and exercise caution when climbing stairs, escalators and walkways. While on vacation, surroundings might be unfamiliar. Therefore, it is extra-important to be on the lookout for wet or oily walkways, floor surfaces in disrepair, loose or unanchored mats or rugs and weather hazards.

Finally, some workers may tackle home improvement projects in their time away from work. If this involves working overhead or in elevated positions, it is critical to use the appropriate ladder or stepladder for the job. 

People should avoid standing on chairs, furniture or other household objects. Tasks from a ladder should be done while maintaining three points of contact and avoiding leaning too far in one direction. When mowing the lawn or doing other yard work, PPE such as protective eyewear, gloves and hearing protection should be used to safeguard against flying debris and noise. Long pants and enclosed footwear are also recommended.

Whether on the job or off, always be sure to employ commonsense awareness and caution while adhering to safe practices.

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