Summer Safety Tips from YRMC: Stay Safe This Season

Summer is ramping up with backyard barbecues, boating, swimming, and 4th of July celebrations to look forward to. The Prescott area offers countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors this time of year. However, it’s important to be aware while celebrating. Just a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping you and your loved ones safe. Here are a few tips from the Emergency Department at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Beat the Heat 

Arizona residents know how quickly summer temperatures can climb, and prolonged exposure can lead to serious illnesses. Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Blake Sherman, MD, Emergency Department physician at  Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center, describes the warning signs. 

“Elevated outdoor temperatures can lead to heat illness symptoms that can range from a rash or muscle cramps to joint swelling, nausea, and even passing out. If your core temperature elevates to 104 degrees or higher and you have altered mental status, then you have heat stroke. This is life threatening. Most people with heat stroke don’t know it themselves, and thus it’s very important to be around others who can save your life,” Dr. Sherman says. “Call 911 right away and move the person to a cool place while waiting for help. You can also loosen their clothing and apply wet, cool cloths.”

The best defense against heat-related illness is prevention. A few simple habits can make a big difference. Dr. Sherman offers these suggestions:

• Bring plenty of water and make sure to drink it regularly.

• If you can, try to schedule outdoor activities in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.

Remember that older adults, children, and those with chronic medical conditions are especially susceptible to extreme heat. Extra precautions are important. There are also certain medications that can make you vulnerable to heat exhaustion. If you are unsure, talk to your health care provider.

Good Grilling

Be aware that barbecue grills can create fire hazards if they are not used properly. Food safety is also important when preparing meals outdoors.

When you fire up the grill, remember to:

• Place the grill at least 10 feet away from homes, railings, furniture, and overhanging branches.

• Never leave a lit grill unattended.

• Keep children and pets away from the grilling area.

• Use long-handled utensils.

• Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked foods.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that meats are cooked to the recommended internal temperatures.

• Refrigerate foods promptly after serving.

Taking a few extra precautions can help ensure your barbecue is remembered for great food and good company—not a preventable injury.

Make a Safe Splash

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that more than 4,000 people die from unintentional drowning each year in the United States. In fact, drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related death for young children.

Drowning often happens quickly and quietly, even in shallow water, so constant supervision is critically important whenever children are near water. This applies to a swimming pool, lake, river, or even a backyard kiddie pool.

To help prevent water-related emergencies:

• Designate a responsible adult as a dedicated "lifeguard."

• Keep young children within arm's reach when they are in or near water.

• Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets while boating.

• Avoid alcohol when swimming or operating watercraft.

• Learn CPR so you're prepared to respond in an emergency.

Staying alert around water is one of the most important safety steps you can take.

Injury-Free Fireworks

Fireworks are a popular part of summer celebrations. However, while they can be exciting to watch, they can also be dangerous. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that there were approximately 14,700 fireworks-related injuries in 2024.

“Even sparklers, which are often considered harmless, can reach temperatures of about 2,000 degrees,” says Dr. Sherman. “This is definitely hot enough to cause severe burns in seconds.”

If you plan to use consumer fireworks, make sure to follow the following precautions:

• Carefully read and follow all manufacturer instructions.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.

• Keep spectators at a safe distance.

Of course, you should check with your local fire department to see if there are firework restrictions in your area first.

It’s the Little Things 

Some of the most effective summer safety habits are also the simplest. Dr. Sherman reminds his patients to:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours and after swimming.

• Wear a helmet when biking, skateboarding, or riding scooters.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

• Monitor weather forecasts and plan your outdoor time accordingly.

• Seek shelter during our summer monsoon thunderstorms.

Summer should be filled with memories, not emergency room visits. By taking a few preventive steps, you can help ensure a safer season for yourself and your loved ones. If an emergency does occur, seek medical care immediately.

From all of us at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center, we wish you a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer.