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Summer Safety

Summer Safety Campaign ImageSummer is the season for relaxing, having fun and spending time with your family and friends.

  • When spending time outside, it’s important to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
  • When preparing food on a grill – such as the healthy recipes from Operation Live Well’s Grill and Chill cookbook -- always follow the grill manufacturer’s instructions and proper food safety procedures.
  • Summertime is a prime time for use of motorcycles and bikes. Remember to wear a helmet and follow basic biker safety instructions.
  • Independence Day celebrations and outdoor parties are an enjoyable part of the summer. Make sure to drink alcoholic beverages responsibly and never let anyone drink and drive.

Resources & Links

American Red Cross

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Federal Emergency Management Agency

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center

U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center

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Don't let the bugs bite

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8/2/2018
Using an insect repellent spray can be an important measure in guarding against bites from fleas, ticks and mosquitoes this summer.

Most parents do a good job of protecting their kids from the sun, but they also need to consider why it's important to guard against potentially harmful insect bites and stings

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The things head lice carry: Stigma and hassle, but no harm

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7/31/2018
Lice are parasitic insects that can be found on people’s heads, and bodies. Human lice survive by feeding on human blood. (EPA photo)

Lice – a common affliction in school children – are gross but harmless

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Preparing for travel can prevent illness

Article
7/18/2018
Experts encourage overseas travelers to seek advice from a health care provider before leaving on a trip, and to make sure recommended vaccinations are up to date (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. De-Juan Haley)

Experts encourage travelers to be proactive about their travel medicine needs, including learning about the health risks associated with the destination and checking with their doctor to make sure they’re in good health

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Army entomology experts: Don’t get bitten

Article
7/16/2018
The lone star tick is the most common tick found in the southeastern U.S. One of the first things people can do to prevent a tick bite is to recognize tick habitats, and avoid them. (U.S. Army photo by Graham Snodgrass)

The best way to ensure you don't get sick is to not get bitten

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Summer travel: Getting care while overseas

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7/10/2018
Summer vacation is the start of travel season for many military families.

When traveling overseas, you should know what to do in the event of illness or other health issues

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Summer Safety 2018 Hydration Safety

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7/10/2018
This infographic provides information on ways to stay hydrated while out in the sun.

This infographic provides information on ways to stay hydrated while out in the sun.

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Summer safety: Preventing firework burns

Article
7/3/2018
Fireworks fill the sky on July 8, 2017 at Offutt’s base lake during the annual fireworks display. Several family activities took place at the celebration including face painting, a treasure hunt and a performance from the Heartland of America Band. (U.S. Air Force photo by Zachary Hada)

If your patriotic celebration includes self-starter fireworks or hand-held sparklers, take precautions to avoid injury.

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Heat-related illnesses

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6/27/2018
Heat-Related Illnesses

Tips to prevent heat-related illnesses

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Sports drinks: What are you really putting in your body?

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6/27/2018
Generally our bodies are comprised of approximately 60 to 70 percent water. We need water for digestion, energy and oxygen transport, and temperature regulation. Senior Airman Johanna Magner, 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, drinks water on the flightline in front of a KC-135 Stratotanker. With rising temperatures during the summer months people are encouraged to drink more water to stay hydrated. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jenna K. Caldwell)

In general, sports drinks are typically a calculated blend of carbohydrates, electrolytes and water

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Summer safety: Tips to prevent food poisoning

Article
6/22/2018
Consider your food safely cooked when the internal temperature gets high enough to kill germs. You can check the temperature of your food by using a food thermometer. (U.S. Navy file photo)

Summer safety: Tips to prevent food poisoning

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Summer Safety 2018 Mosquito Safety

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6/20/2018
This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself from harmful mosquito bites.

This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself from harmful mosquito bites.

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Five tips for protecting your skin from the sun

Article
6/18/2018
You have many options for protecting your skin while outdoors in the sun, including protecting your eyes and the skin around your eyes by wearing sunglasses. (U.S. Air Force file photo)

You have many options for protecting your skin while outdoors in the sun

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Summer Safety 2018 Water Safety

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6/16/2018
This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself while you're in or near water.

This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself while you're in or near water.

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Avoiding complacency key to summer fire safety

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6/15/2018
Officials are urging people to take fire safety seriously by taking the proper precautions when taking part in some of their favorite summertime activities, including starting fires; people should not use items like gasoline or kerosene, which can cause flare ups and result in serious injuries. (U.S. Air Force file photo)

Officials are urging people to take fire safety seriously by taking the proper precautions when doing some favorite summertime activities

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Summer Safety 2018 Sun Safety

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6/6/2018
This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.

This infographic provides information on ways to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.

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