As the warmer months draw near, North Carolina residents are being urged by the state’s Department of Health and Human Services to prioritize safety while enjoying outdoor activities. With the onset of summer, NCDHHS has outlined essential guidelines focusing on water safety, heat protection, and food safety to minimize risks of illness and injury.
Recognized as National Water Safety Month, May serves as a crucial reminder that drowning, despite being the leading cause of death for children aged one to four, is a preventable tragedy.
“Every North Carolinian deserves to enjoy the summer season without risk to their health or safety,” stated Dr. Kelly Kimple, Interim State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer. “By taking small, thoughtful actions — like supervising children near water, staying cool during extreme heat and practicing safe grilling — we can all stay safe this summer.”
Water Safety: Key Measures to Prevent Drowning
As families flock to swimming pools, lakes, and beaches, NCDHHS emphasizes the importance of these water safety measures:
- Active Supervision: Drowning can occur quickly and quietly. Always monitor children closely when they are near water.
- Secure Pool Access: Ensure pool areas are locked and gates are closed. Remove ladders when pools are not in use.
- Understand Water Conditions: Be cautious of currents, depth changes, and undertows at natural water bodies like beaches and lakes.
- Maintain Health: Refrain from swimming if experiencing diarrhea to avoid spreading germs.
- Check Water Quality: Make sure swimming pools are properly disinfected. Public pools, spas, and splash pads are regularly inspected by local health departments.
- Exercise Caution in All Natural Waters: Lakes and rivers may harbor bacteria or harmful algae blooms. Verify advisories before swimming.
Heat Safety: Coping with Extreme Temperatures
The North Carolina Climate Science Update indicates a rising trend in extreme heat days, with temperatures hitting 95 degrees or more. From May to September 2024, North Carolina reported over 4,600 emergency department visits due to heat-related illnesses.
Residents are advised to:
- Recognize Symptoms: Symptoms like nausea, dizziness, headaches, confusion, or a rapid pulse could signify heat exhaustion or stroke.
- Hydrate and Seek Coolness: Move to a cooler environment, drink water slowly, and seek medical assistance if symptoms continue.
- Identify High-Risk Groups: Children, seniors, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, athletes, and those without air conditioning are particularly vulnerable.
Stay updated by subscribing to the NCDHHS Heat Health Alert System via the NC Climate and Health team webpage.
Grilling Safety: Preventing Foodborne Illnesses
Summer is synonymous with grilling, but it also brings a heightened risk of foodborne illnesses. Most foodborne outbreaks reported in North Carolina occur between May and August.
Adopt these grilling safety measures:
- Practice Hygiene: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after food handling.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw meats separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
- Ensure Safe Cooking Temperatures: Use a food thermometer to verify that meats reach appropriate internal temperatures.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours; consume them within three to four days.
- Sanitize Grill Equipment: Clean surfaces and utensils before and after each use.
For further details on healthy swimming practices, visit the CDC’s Healthy Swimming page. For safe grilling tips, check the Safe Grilling Tips page. The CDC also offers guidance on preventing heat-related illnesses. Additional summer safety recommendations can be found on the NCDHHS Division of Public Health website.
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