Take a few moments to re-acquaint yourself with summer safety before the weather returns, Premier and Minister of Justice and Public Safety Wade MacLauchlan says.
“In our rush to get outside, it’s tempting but unadvisable to throw caution to the wind,” the premier said. “This is the time of year when very preventable and potentially tragic accidents can occur, so we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to enjoy all outdoor activities safely.”
Here are some common-sense reminders and some lesser-known tips, along with useful web sites for more information.
Beaches and sun safety: Wear light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and drink plenty of cool liquids before you are thirsty; limit your time in the sun and seek shade if possible; swim in supervised beach areas and swim parallel to the shore if caught in a rip current; don’t consume alcohol or drugs before or while swimming; and never leave children unsupervised, www.tourismpei.com/beachreports.
Lawn mowers: Store gasoline in a well-ventilated area (not a basement or other confined area) in a certified storage container; clean up all gasoline spills immediately; and always wear proper footwear and eye protection when using the mower, https://canadasafetycouncil.org/campaigns/dont-get-mowed-down-how-avoid-lawn-mower-injuries.
Food preparation: As the temperature rises, so does the risk of foodborne illness; wash hands and all food preparation surfaces; keep raw foods separate from cooked ones; keep cold food cold; and properly cook food to kill bacteria, www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/envh_food.pdf.
Barbecues: Always check gas barbecue hoses and valves for leaks prior to lighting (you should not smell gas); grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from homes or deck railings; and never light a gas barbecue with the lid down,www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqHLCcmrmBg.
Camp fires: Everyone loves a camp fire, but a stray spark in dry conditions can cause a disaster. Check the forest fire index or local regulations before starting a camp fire www.gov.pe.ca/forestry/fire, and obtain a permit before burning brush or yard debris www.gov.pe.ca/forestry/index.php3?number=73360.
Pets: Make sure pets have access to water on hot days and never leave your pet alone in a warm vehicle, www.nohotpets.ca.
Hurricanes: It’s also hurricane season – learn how to prepare at www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/OPS_hurricane.pdf.
Remember that heat stroke is a medical emergency – call 9-1-1 if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating. Also call 9-1-1 to report a crime, report a fire, or save a life.
More information on how to prepare yourself and your family for emergencies is available in the province’s comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Guide at www.gov.pe.ca/photos/original/OPS-PreGuide.pdf.