Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin, City of Raleigh | City of Raleigh - Government
Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin, City of Raleigh | City of Raleigh - Government
Whether spending time at the pool, grilling, or traveling, knowing how to stay safe in summer is vital. The Raleigh Fire Department has shared several safety tips for staying healthy and happy this season.
"As the summer heat intensifies, it's crucial to stay informed about safety measures, especially here in Raleigh where the temperatures can soar," says Lt. Lemuel Hubbard from Raleigh Fire. Adults older than 65, children younger than four, people with existing medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning are at the greatest risk during extreme heat.
To stay safe:
- Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
- Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
- Stay hydrated.
- Recognize heat-related illnesses.
- Find public spaces for relief during heatwaves if you don’t have access to air conditioning at home.
FEMA’s Summer Ready campaign also promotes preparedness and resilience against extreme heat.
Outdoor grilling is a popular way to cook food but poses fire hazards if not managed properly. "A grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. It can be very hot, causing burn injuries," says Hubbard.
For safe grilling:
- Ensure your grill is placed on a non-combustible surface.
- Keep it away from structures.
- Check gas lines for leaks.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
Water safety is another critical area of concern. Most drownings for kids between one and four happen during “non-swimming” times such as backyard barbecues where someone has a fountain, pond, or baby pool. It’s important to stay aware of surroundings and practice "touch supervision" by staying within arm's length of toddlers or young children near water. Flotation devices should not replace active supervision; kids without strong swimming skills should wear a "U.S. Coast Guard-approved" life jacket.
Experts emphasize that teaching children how to swim early is one of the best ways to prevent drowning.
“Following these tips and guidelines can help you and your family have a great – and safe – summer,” says Hubbard.
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