Have Fun and Stay Safe This Summer

Freeholder Director Tom Arone

By Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone

It’s summertime and the living is easy – but to enjoy the fun, be sure to follow the most important summer safety tips so you and your family can make the most of the carefree moments while keeping everyone happy all season long.

Upon Heading Out the Door, before you even leave your house, no matter what the destination, make sure you are prepared for a day outside in the sun. Lather everyone up with suncreen and make sure it is designed to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.Wear sunglasses and a hat to offer further protection from the sun’s damaging rays and be sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other drinks.

If you are just hanging out in your yard, Pay attention to Fire Safety.
Believe it or not, the National Fire Protection Association recently reported that fire departments in the U.S. responded annually to 7,700 home fires involving grills and barbecues. 81 percent of these fires involved gas grills, which makes gas grill maintenance a high summertime safety priority. In order to avoid gas grill issues, check your grill’s gas line for leaks and breaks. Also, always practice the safe handling techniques outlined in your grill’s instruction manual, whether it’s charcoal or gas.

Along with fire safety we should also be concerned about Pool Safety. First and foremost make sure that all poolside fencing is in good repair and gates are kept locked at all times in order to keep very young children from accessing the area without a supervising adult present. Most drownings of children between the ages of 1 and 4 occur in residential swimming pools.

Lastly, Beach Safety is first and foremost for those packing their cars and headed for summertime fun at the Jersey Shore. The United States Life Saving Association or USLA top ten (Safety) tips are as follows:

Learn to Swim 6. Obey Posted Signs and Flags
Swim Near a Lifeguard 7. Keep the Beach and Water Clean
Swim with a Buddy 8. Learn Rip Current Safety
Check with the Lifeguards 9. Enter Water Feet First
Use Sunscreen and Drink Water 10. Wear a Life Jacket

The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders hopes that all of our residents along with all those visiting during the peak tourism season have a very safe and happy summer.

Let’s take all the steps necessary and be careful and diligent, so that we can all keep safe and make certain that summer fun remains FUN!