Summer Safety Tips from Curcio Law

All of us at Curcio Law are committed to the safety and health of our clients, their families, and friends. Here are some common-sense safety tips to keep in mind and to discuss with your family and friends to ensure that you and those you care about enjoy a happy and safe summer.

1. Highway Driving
   • If driving to a vacation destination, check oil, fluids, belts, tires, etc to make sure vehicle is mechanically sound;
   • Expect increased traffic – with summer comes vacation travel, so expect more traffic on the highways, and give yourself more time when traveling;
   • Check fuel and refuel before the low fuel warning light activates;
   • Stay calm and be courteous to others;
   • Be alert for motorcyclists as they are often hard to see in mirrors;
   • If your vehicle experiences mechanical difficulties, exit the highway at the nearest exit, and call for help. If not able to exit the highway, pull your vehicle as far off the road to the right as safely possible, active hazard lights, have everyone exit and move away from the vehicle, and then call for help.
2. Local Driving
   • School’s Out – expect more children to be out and about on bicycles, tricycles, skateboards, rollerblades, and scooters;
   • Pools, parks, and playgrounds-be especially alert in these areas as children are often excitedly crossing the street going to and fro;
   • Driveways and sidewalks-be alert to children playing on sidewalks when entering and exiting driveways in residential neighborhood;
   • Stay especially alert after dark as children will be out later in the evening.
3. Safety for Children:
   • Children 14 and younger are required by state law to  wear a bicycle helmet when riding bicycles. Helmets should also be worn when riding, rollerblades, skateboards, or scooters. Children should also wear bright clothes when out at night;
   • Review the rules of the road with your children. Remind them to stop and look both ways before crossing, to only cross streets at corners, to use the crosswalks when available, and to obey traffic signals.
4. Boating Safety
   • Boat must be equipped with a life jacket for every passenger;
   • Passengers under the age of 13 must be wearing a life jacket at all times;
   • Boats and alcohol do not mix – leave alcohol at home;
   • Boat must have an anchor;
   • Do not exceed the passenger/weight capacity posted on boat;
   • Do not allow passengers to dangle legs or arms outside boat while in motion;
   • Whenever possible, have two people capable of operating the boat onboard;
   • Always check fuel before heading out, know the location and hours of fuel docks, and have reserve fuel on hand.
5. Bicycling Safety:
   • Cyclists are subject to the traffic laws;
   • Wear a bicycle helmet, and use lights, reflectors, and bright or reflective clothing when riding at night;
   • Inspect bicycle before operating for the first time as tires may have lost air or other mechanical issues may have arisen.
   • Dehydration
   • Dehydration is a serious risk during hot and humid temperatures, especially during the first one or two heat spells;
   • Drink plenty of fluids when working or exercising outside;
   • Pay attention to temperature safety alerts and refrain from outdoor activity during extreme temperatures.
6. Pet Safety
   • Dogs should not be left inside vehicles in high temperatures as dogs  overheat quickly;
   • Pets should be restrained in car during trips.

And, remember, summer is a time to rest, relax, and recharge, so take time to enjoy your friends and family, have some fun, and read a good book or two. Happy Summer! by Thomas J. Curcio