NEW JERSEY — As summer kicks off, the American Red Cross New Jersey Region is urging residents to take safety precautions while enjoying outdoor activities like swimming, grilling, and camping.
“Here in New Jersey, many of us enjoy camping, time at the beach, and backyard barbeques with family and friends,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO of the American Red Cross New Jersey Region. “The Red Cross wants you to be safe no matter what your plans include and offers steps you can follow to have a safe summer.”
Water Safety
Drowning can occur quickly and silently, sometimes in as little as 20 to 60 seconds. The Red Cross encourages families to be “water smart” by learning to swim, providing constant supervision, and using life jackets when necessary.
- Never swim alone and always swim in areas with lifeguards.
- Designate a “water watcher” to maintain constant attention on swimmers.
- In an emergency, reach or throw an object instead of going in yourself.
Grilling and Food Safety
Grilling causes more than 10,000 home fires annually. To stay safe, the Red Cross advises:
- Never grill indoors and keep grills away from anything flammable.
- Use long-handled tools and keep children and pets away from the grill.
- Store perishable foods in a cooler and separate raw meats from ready-to-eat items to avoid cross-contamination.
Camping Preparedness
Before heading outdoors, the Red Cross recommends packing a first aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Campers should share their plans with someone at home and choose trails within their group’s skill level.
- Bring nutritious food and water.
- Wear layers, sunscreen, and hats for sun protection.
- Download the free Red Cross First Aid and Emergency apps for guidance in areas with limited access to emergency services.
Pet Safety
Summer heat can be dangerous for pets, particularly dogs with short snouts or respiratory conditions. The Red Cross advises never leaving pets in parked vehicles and watching for signs of heat stroke such as heavy panting and brick-red gums.
- If heat stroke is suspected, cool the animal using a water hose and stop once their temperature reaches 103°F.
- Seek veterinary care immediately.
For more information on summer safety, visit redcross.org/summersafety or download the free Red Cross apps for first aid, emergency alerts, and pet care.
