Summer safety: Tips for keeping your summer fun and safe

Summer holidays provide the perfect time to enjoy sunshine, fresh air and time with loved ones. When you're celebrating these holidays, it's important to make sure everyone stays as safe as possible. Here are a few ways to keep your summer safe and fun.

Grill with safety in mind

Summer holidays often mean having an outdoor meal with your loved ones. If you're planning to use your grill to make any kind of food, make sure you do so safely. Keep your grill away from the exterior of your home, along with any other close flammable structures. Your grilling space should also be away from pets and kids to reduce the risk of injuries, such as burns.

Check your grill to make sure it's working right before using it, and make sure it's fully turned off when you're done.

Practice pool safety

Spending the summer holidays outdoors might include swimming in a pool. Practice pool safety by making sure kids and pets are always supervised when they're in or around the pool. Have life vests or flotation devices handy for those who can't swim. Don't allow anyone to run around the outside of the pool, since this surface can be highly slippery. Also make sure everyone in the pool stays away from drains or pipes.

Ensure food safety

Summer holidays usually involve plenty of food that's eaten outdoors. Avoid leaving perishable foods sitting out in the sun and heat, since this can raise the risk of food poisoning. Refrigerate perishable foods or toss them if needed. Also keep food and drinks outside covered, so they won't attract wasps, hornets, ants and other insects or pests.