June is National Safety Month
Austin, Texas (June 1, 2010) The National Safety Council (NSC) recognizes June as “National Safety Month”, a time designated to spreading safety awareness throughout communities. As summer approaches, many activities pose high risk of injury if safety precautions are not applied.
With temperatures rising to the mid-90s, many people are unaware of the health risks involved with sun and heat exposure. Sunburn and heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion have mild to severe symptoms and can be detrimental to one’s health.
Sunburn
Sunburn is produced by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (the sun’s rays). Overexposure may cause symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness; but excessive ultraviolet radiation exposure is the leading cause of non-malignant skin tumors and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat Exhaustion affects individuals who do not drink enough fluids while working or exercising in hot environments. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, vomiting, severe thirst, and fatigue. If uncontrolled, heat exhaustion can evolve into heatstroke.
To reduce or prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion, the NSC recommends following these safety tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water or a sports drink every 15 minutes
- Take breaks often (preferably in the shade) to allow your body to cool off
- Minimize sun exposure by wearing loose-fitting clothing, a hat, and sunglasses
- Wear a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
With the 4th of July around the corner, communities should also be aware of the importance of fireworks safety. According to a report conducted by John R. Hall Jr. from the National Fire Protection Association, in 2006 an estimated 32,600 reported fires ignited by fireworks. These fires resulted in 6 civilian deaths, 70 civilian injuries, and $34 million in direct property damage.
The National Safety Council suggests the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to view a public fireworks display conducted by professionals, however, if you decide to use individual fireworks, they must be used outside of city limits, and should be handled with care. Some safety tips for using fireworks include:
- Light one device at a time
- Maintain a safe distance after lighting
- Keep a bucket of water nearby to extinguish malfunctioning fireworks
- Never allow young children to light fireworks
- Make sure older children are using fireworks under adult supervision
Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Blackhawk Healthcare is an owner and operator of small community and Critical Access Hospitals. Founded in 2003, Blackhawk currently owns and operates 2 hospitals in Texas and one in Oklahoma. Blackhawk’s desire is to transform rural healthcare by working synergistically with each rural community to build confidence and pride through improved healthcare delivery. We are passionately dedicated to the uniqueness of rural healthcare and improving the community by bringing the resources required to meet the broader needs of each "hometown" we touch. Blackhawk is inspired to provide excellence in service and modern facilities that convey trust, confidence and healing.