A local Doctor has an important summertime safety message for the community. “As an emergency physician at Ashley Regional Medical Center in Vernal, Utah, I see firsthand the serious, and often preventable, dangers that summer can bring,” shares Dr. Nolan Brooksby. “Whether you’re heading outdoors for a weekend at the lake, grilling in the backyard, or hiking our beautiful Uintah Basin trails, it’s important to stay alert to two major seasonal hazards: extreme heat and water-related injuries. Heat-related illness and drowning remain among the leading causes of preventable summer emergencies. But with a little preparation and the right knowledge, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe while enjoying everything this season has to offer.” The following are a few tips Dr. Brooksby shared to help prevent heat-related illnesses: Be aware of temperature and humidity levels in your area and avoid going outdoors for activities or exercise in extreme heat. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Sports drinks can also be helpful to replace salts and provide some sugar. Always use an SPF-15 or higher sunscreen. NEVER leave infants, children or animals in cars unattended, even if the windows are cracked open. Like heat-related illness, drowning can be prevented. The following tips listed are key to ensuring a fun, safe summer for all: Only swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Designate a responsible adult to supervise children closely and constantly when they are in or near water, including bathtubs. Make sure young children and inexperienced swimmers always wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around natural water and swimming pools. Always wear a life jacket when boating – most boating fatalities occur from drowning. Avoid drinking alcohol before or during water activities. Find Dr. Brooksby’s entire message on AshleyRegional.com.
