Watch out for summer safety hazards

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Open windows

Now come the nice breezes and open windows. But each year about 5,000 children age 10 and under are injured by falling through windows and 18 die. Screens don't help much. According to the Children's Medical Center in Dallas, screens can easily give way under a child's weight.

They recommend installing window guards and moving furniture away from windows to keep a child from climbing up to reach a window. Tell kids about the dangers of windows and set a good example by not leaning against windows or sitting on their ledges.
Jellyfish stings

The number of jellyfish appears to be on the rise. Carry a small bottle of vinegar or rubbing alcohol in your beach bag. If you get stung, it will ease the pain.
Bee stings

More than 500,000 people are treated in emergency rooms each year for bee stings, and 40 die. Bees are attracted to bright clothing, the smell of perfumes and lotions, and sweet foods and drinks.

If you are stung, remove the stinger by scraping it away with a credit card. (If you squeeze it, more venom will come out.) Wash the area and apply antiseptic. If you have a history of allergic reactions, ask your doctor for an Epi-kit, a syringe filled with epinephrine, a hormone that prevents shock.
Poison ivy, oak, sumac

If you touch poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac, remove the irritating resin as soon as possible. Wash the area with rubbing alcohol followed by soap and water. If no alcohol is available, at least wash well with soap and water.
Mosquito bites

They itch like mad and mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile Virus. A swarm could even make you fall out of your boat (so be sure to wear a life jacket). Repellents containing DEET offer the best protection. For children under age 6, don't use an insect repellent that contains more than 15 percent DEET.

Long Island Safety Articles > Watch out for summer safety hazards