Now that summer is here summer fun is foremost on everyone’s mind and we would like to take this time to remind you not to forget some summer safety tips. Mosquitoes, white sox and “noseeums” are among our biggest challenge to avoid. Using DEET containing products of 95%-100% will reduce your risk of insect bites and making sure to cover exposed areas with the DEET product prior to going outdoors will enhance your enjoyment of outdoor activities. Young children often swell up from a bug bite reaction. Parents can give Benedryl elixir and a cold pack to stop the itch and swelling.

Moose pose a significant threat, especially a mother with a young calf. We would remind you to never approach a moose with her baby or if you see a baby on its own. Sometimes the mother leaves her young to feed and she will come back for them so you must not pet, play with, or try to move the calf. You can avoid startling a moose if you are out hiking by making loud noises as you hike or wearing a noise making device such as a bell so they are aware of your approach. The same holds true with bear encounters. When out hiking you want to use a noise making device or carry on loud conversation so that they are aware of your approach and can avoid you. If you are approached by a bear while fishing you should abandon your fish and try to give the bear a wide berth.

When out riding bicycles, ATVs or motorbikes along the roadways and bike trails we would encourage you to use safety helmets. Accidents are the leading cause of death in children and head injuries account for a large number of these.

Boating safety is another concern for the summer. Lifejackets are most effective when worn and buckled securely at all clasps and tightened with adjustable straps. For very young children a strap that fastens between the legs, clipping into the lifejacket is recommended. We would encourage people not to drink alcoholic beverages while boating and of course use plenty of sunscreen as UV damage can occur even on overcast days. Along with boating comes fishing and fishhooks can be a hazardous obstacle to avoid. Should you find yourself a victim of a fishhook encounter, after the obligatory shaking and dancing around and you are unable to remove the fishhook, you should seek assistance from a physician.

Car seat use in children and infants and seatbelt use for adults is the law and we would encourage everyone to buckle up prior to starting the car. Again we strongly encourage you not to drink and drive and have a safe, happy, healthy, and fun summer.