Be safe when you spend time outdoors. Keep an eye out for potential hazards, such as dangerous insects, predators or unsafe hiking trails. Bring plenty of water and extra food if you plan to be outdoors for a long time. If you travel to a remote region, have some way to contact emergency responders, such as an emergency flare, satellite phone or GPS locating device.
Water Safety
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer the following water-safety suggestions: Teach children to swim in designated areas. Never allow them to swim unsupervised. If possible, choose places that have lifeguards. Use the buddy system, and teach children to stay together. For adults, avoid alcohol before swimming and while watching children in the water. Boating safety rules include never operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol and always requiring passengers to wear life jackets. The CDC warns that inflatable flotation devices cannot substitute for life jackets.
Hiking and Hunting Safety
Getting lost in a remote area can be fatal. According to the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, if you are hiking you should let someone know where you are heading, so that rescuers can find you in case of an emergency. If encounters with hunters are possible, wear bright colors to warn them of your location. Pack enough food and water for your trip, plus extra for an emergency situation. Know the potential hazards of the region, such as poisonous insects or snakes, dangerous animals, steep drops, contaminated water sources and other dangers.
Hot Weather Safety
In hot weather, wear loose-fitting clothing so your body's perspiration can cool you. Drink plenty of fluids. Stay in the shade whenever possible. Wear sunscreen. If possible, perform intense activities during the cool morning or evening hours. According to the California Emergency Management Agency, children under the age of 4, disabled persons, seniors over the age of 65 and people taking certain medications might not be able to handle high heat. Monitor them carefully for signs of heat exhaustion.
Cold Weather Safety
Dress in layers during cold weather. Wear water-resistant clothing, such as a coat, gloves, scarf, boots and mittens. Monitor children closely. Hypothermia and frostbite result from exposure to cold, so limit the amount of time outdoors in extreme weather. Don't walk on or near frozen lakes, rivers or ponds, because the ice might not be strong enough to support your weight.
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