Summer Safety Guide for the Family

It’s finally that time of year we’ve all been waiting for. Longer days, warmer temperature and bright sunshine make these next few months a glorious paradise for anybody who likes to spend time outdoors. I’m talking about summer, of course, and while this warm-weather season has its many perks, there are safety hazards that should not be overlooked, especially if you have young ones tagging along for the fun. So before you head to the park, pool, barbeque or beach (if you’re lucky!), be sure you consider this summer safety guide for the family.

Sun Safety Tips

Apply early and often – For children six months and older (as well as adults), be sure to apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to ensure you are getting full-spectrum protection. It’s also important to apply about 15-30 minutes before sun exposure so it can absorb into the skin and decrease the likelihood of it being washed off. We recommend reapplying about every two hours and any time after swimming, sweating or drying off with a towel.

Wear clothing that covers – Dress yourself and your kids in protective clothing. There are many sun-protective styles that are great in covering the neck, elbows and knees. We suggest wearing darker colors and thicker fabrics, as well as topping off any sun-safe outfit with a hat with a forward facing brim.

Be mindful of shade – Contrary to popular belief, you can, in fact, get burned while sitting in the shade. This is because light is scattered and reflected, so even though you are getting relief from heat, it does not provide the UVR protection that is needed.

Water Rules

Be attentive – Whenever your kids are in the water, be sure you are off your cell phone and watching them at all times. Avoid distractions at all costs, because drowning can happen quickly and quietly.

Put up a fence – If your house has a swimming pool, fencing of at least four feet surrounding all sides of the pool and doors that close and lock by themselves is a pool safety necessity. This will keep your tykes out of the pool when you’re not around, but it is also important to train your kids so they know never to go near the water without an adult.

Take a class – Be prepared for any scenario by attending a CPR class and getting certified. Parents that are knowledgeable about water safety skills are extremely important because you can never be too careful around water.

Safe Barbequing

Thoroughly cook all meat – It is very important all meat you feed your children is well-done, and not a spot rare. Cut through any meat before serving it to your kids, and you can make sure you’re cooking at the appropriate temperatures by obtaining a meat thermometer.

Never leave grill unattended – An adult should always be standing by the grill when it’s on or in use, so little ones don’t touch it and burn themselves severely. The sun isn’t the only thing hot in the summer!

Follow these summer safety tips, and you and your family will have the exciting and fun filled summer you planned for. Be sure to visit SOS Survival Products to stock up on all your summer safety supplies and ensure that your family enjoys the warm weather responsibly!

Top 10 Camping Essentials for Your Trip

You’ve planned for your big camping trip for months now, and you’ve done everything you can think of. You reserved a campsite, organized all of your gear, and planned activities to keep everyone in your group entertained. However, there are lots of little things that can easily be overlooked that could potentially save you or others in a moment of desperation.

Here are the Top 10 Camping Essentials:

1. First-Aid Kits

An obvious necessity for all camping trips but oftentimes overlooked, first aid kits come in handy in many situations. It is important the kit you bring contains treatments for blisters, adhesive bandages of varying sizes, gauze pads, tape, over-the-counter pain medication, disinfectant and gloves. These items should alleviate pain caused by typical camping activities as well as minimize the chances of infection.

2. Alternate Clothing

Even if the forecast calls for all sun, the weather can change at the snap of a finger. Alternate or extra clothing allows you to swap out wet clothes for dry ones or add extra layers in the cold.

3. Emergency Water Supplies

Whether it be a means to purify water or emergency drinking water, you should always ensure you have a means to obtain clean water just in case your supply runs out or is diminished.

4. Pocketknife

Known as a Swiss Army Knife, these useful tools take up essentially zero bag space and contain things like a knife, corkscrew, saw, scissors and more. With a pocketknife by your side, you have a tool for any scenario.

5. Fire Starters

It’s all fun and games until it gets dark outside and you realize you forgot matches or a fire starter. Having a fire at your campsite is essential for cooking food, providing warmth when it’s cold out and producing a source of light so you can see where you’re going. Plus, what’s camping without roasting marshmallows?

6. Sun Protection

Sunglasses, while stylish, also provide eye protection from the sun’s UV rays that have been linked to the development of cataracts, so it’s a win-win. Sunscreen (SPF 30+) should be worn at all times and reapplied throughout the day to decrease your risk for painful burns.

7. Emergency Shelter

Emergency “space” blankets or tarps should be packed, just in case getting lost or injured leaves you stranded for an extended amount of time. These are especially helpful when it’s windy and rainy, as they can keep you from getting sick and keep you warm.

8. Navigation

Maps and compasses are camping necessities, especially when moving from campsite to campsite and for situations where you find yourself lost. You don’t want to be the guy who refused to bring a map because you “know you’re not going to get lost.” It happens to the best of us, so better safe than sorry.

9. Flashlight (and Batteries)

Flashlights can not only show you the way when it’s dark but can also be used to signal for help during an emergency. That’s why it’s important for every member of your party to carry their own flashlight. And don’t forget batteries!

10. Rope

Last but not least, rope is especially useful if you or someone else in your party can tie various knots. Rope can be used for clotheslines, creating shelter, or even towing someone out of a tight situation.

With these items packed for your camping trip, you can rest easy knowing you’re prepared for every scenario. Remember, you can find most of these camping essentials and much more at SOS Products! We also carry tents and privacy shelters. Now have fun and be safe!