The summer is upon us and it is time to have fun. Hopefully you will be able to have fun with the expense of a trip to the emergency room or the need to call a lawyer. Below are just a few ideas to keep in mind to help make you summer safe.

During outdoor work drink lots of water If you are like me there is always some kind of outdoor work to be done. Construction of decks, fences and decorative landscaping seem to be very popular. Repairing these items will also be a yearly routine. Also do not forget the routines of mowing lawns and trimming of trees. All these actions will need power tools and often times ladders. If you become dehydrated your ability to physically handle these tasks will become degraded and injuries are likely.

Grills and BBQs do not go on wooden decks Keeping and using your grill or BBQ on a wooden deck may seem like an ok idea but it is not. After years of settling and wood warping not all deck surfaces are fully level any more. It sometimes does not take much to knock over a grill putting that open flame right by the wood deck boards. Also not all grills are built the same. Some have cheaper metal that develops pin holes easily. The charcoal may be staying in the grill but that lighter fluid has leaked down the grill legs and on to the deck. Chances are the flame will go where the lighter fluid went to also.

Learn about friends allergies Many people have allergies to bee stings and other bug bites. Most now carry some kind of auto injecting antidote pen. These pens are very easy to use. Hold them up to skin and press the button. A spring inside the pen pushes the needle into the victim, pumps in the antidote and then retracts the needle for the safety of others. The process takes less than one second. The problem is knowing who needs the shots and where they keep their pen (in a pocket, a purse or back in the car). For many people getting their shot early enough means they do not need a trip to the Doctor.

Keep alcohol consumption reasonable Every time we turn around there is a do not drink message so why bore you with one more. All I have to say is keep in mind that alcohol does effect your motor skills, even after just a few. When doing work with tools maybe break out the alcohol at the end of the job. Be smart about driving cars and boats when drinking. You are not only risking your life but every one in your vehicle and other vehicles around you.

When the weather turns nice people should be able to have fun, yet they should be safe also. Keeping the above info in mind should help to keep the local fire department and paramedic service from having to see you.