09/08/2024
Summer is here! Sunshine, picnics, and trips to the beach beckon. But before you dive headfirst into fun, let's take a quick dip into some safety essentials.
This guide will help you navigate some common summer hazards, covering everything from staying cool and hydrated to avoiding nasty bites and the value of protection.
Water Hazards –
A refreshing dip on a hot day is pure summer bliss, but swimming can be dangerous, and awareness of your surroundings is crucial. In 2022, there were 226 accidental drownings in the UK, with more accidents in in-land waters rather than on the coast.[1]
Drowning often occurs due to a lack of swimming skills, lack of supervision, underestimating the dangers of water or due to risky behaviour. Whilst learning how to swim is an important first step, knowing your limits, being aware of your surroundings, and supervising young children even if they’re confident in the water are also key actions to take.
Outdoor swimming can also pose unique risks, and whilst currents are often associated with rivers or the sea, lakes, despite seeming still, often have water currents that can be completely undetectable from the surface. Wherever you’re swimming, make sure to do some research before you head off, look out for rippled surfaces, remain calm if caught in a current, and be aware waters can be very cold, no matter how hot the weather (affecting your ability to swim and self-rescue).
Heat-Related Illnesses –
Whilst many of us enjoy the warmer weather than summer brings, climate change is causing warmer temperatures, with 2022 and 2023 being the hottest years on record in the UK[2]. Shockingly, it is estimated that in 2022, over 2,800 people aged 65 and over died due to the heat in England in 2022, and it’s predicted that the number of heat-related deaths per year may triple by 2050.[3]
The main risks posed by a heatwave are dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion and heatstroke[4] , so it’s important to understand what measures you should take to protect yourself in hotter weather. First things first – whilst it’s tempting to laze around in the sun, try and stay in the shade at the hottest time of the day (between 11 am and 3 pm), and, if you need to brave the sun, cover up with lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Whilst it may seem obvious, to avoid dehydration, drinking more water and limiting your poolside cocktails are key!
Insect Bites and Stings –
Don't underestimate the bite! While most insect bites and stings are minor annoyances, causing red, swollen, and itchy marks to form on the skin, they can sometimes lead to infection or even a serious allergic reaction. In some parts of the world, they can even transmit diseases like Lyme disease (from ticks), scabies (from mites), and malaria (from mosquitoes).[5]
In the summer months, you may notice that you’re getting stung or bitten more often – especially if you’re regularly taking part in outdoor activities like camping or hiking. Using insect repellent and keeping your skin covered when outdoors can help you to avoid being bitten or stung, and try to remain calm when encountering wasps, hornets, or bees. If you find yourself having been bitten and are experiencing abnormal symptoms that are making you feel unwell, get in touch with NHS 111.
The Value of Protection –
Whilst we can always take preventative measures, unforeseen events can still happen. Having the right insurance coverage provides peace of mind throughout the year, not just in summer. Summer activities can come with inherent risks, and while we don't like to think about it, having adequate protection in place, like income and accident protection, can keep your finances in check should you find yourself unable to work due to unexpected injury. Additionally, private medical insurance can be key in getting a quick appointment or specialist treatment if you need medical attention due to a summer illness or accident, whilst life insurance provides peace of mind knowing your loved ones are taken care of should something unfortunate occur.
Talk To Us –
By understanding summer hazards, taking preventative measures, and ensuring your insurance coverage is up to date, you can relax and create lasting summer memories with your loved ones. At Owl Financial, we’re here to help you make sure you have the right protection in place – get in touch with a specialist Owl Financial Protection Adviser today to find out more.
Approved by Openwork Limited on 09.08.24
[1] https://www.nationalwatersafety.org.uk/campaigns/drowningprevention-day#:~:text=The%20UK%20figures%20showed%20that,waters%20than%20at%20the%20coast
[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67845671
[3] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/beat-the-heat-hot-weather-advice/beat-the-heat-staying-safe-in-hot-weather
[4] https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/seasonal-advice/health-wellbeing/tips-for-keeping-older-people-cool#:~:text=The%20main%20health%20risks%20posed,if%20you%20get%20too%20hot
