School is out for the summer, and with more time for outdoor activities during the hottest months of the year, it is important to take extra safety precautions. Here are some tips that are easy to follow and may help save your life or the life of a loved one.

Tips:

• South Florida’s extreme summer heat can cause illness, dehydration, and even death. While this can be dangerous for everyone, children, senior citizens, and those who play outdoor sports during the summer months are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses. It is important to learn the signs and symptoms of extreme heat exposure and how to remedy them.

• NEVER leave children unattended or unsupervised in parked cars. Leaving a child alone in a car can lead to serious injury or death from heatstroke.

• Drink plenty of liquids, regardless of your activity level. Wear lightweight clothing that is light-colored and breathable.

• Apply (and reapply) sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, limit your exposure to the sun, and protect your eyes with sunglasses.

• Wear wide-brimmed hat.

• Stay in the shade when possible, and try to avoid being out in the sun for extended periods between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM when the sun is at its strongest.

• When at a pool, beach or other body of water, designate an adult to watch the children.

• Never leave a child unattended in a pool or spa, and always watch children around any body of water.

• Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim.

• Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults.

• Keep children away from pool drains, pipes, and other openings to avoid entrapments.