Stepping Into Summertime
Fall safety tips for the great outdoors
As summer approaches, it brings with it two key elements—abundant sunshine and the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. While summer in Dane County offers a time for relaxation and outdoor activities, it is important to remain mindful of various health considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during these months. From protecting your skin from harmful UV rays to staying hydrated during outdoor activities, prioritizing your well-being is essential for making the most of the summer season. As the weather warms and outdoor activities increase, the risk of falls also tends to rise. Whether it’s slipping on wet surfaces near pools, tripping over uneven terrain during hikes, or experiencing dizziness from dehydration or heat exhaustion, falls can happen more easily in the summer. To ensure a safe and enjoyable summer, and prevent falls, here are some helpful tips to minimize the risk of injury:
Tip 1: Wear Appropriate Footwear:
While warm weather may encourage sandals, it is important to opt for closed-toe shoes for better support, stability, protection, and reducing the likelihood of falls from uneven surfaces, debris, or accidental slips.
Tip 2: Stay Hydrated:
Dehydration can increase the risk of falls, as it may lead to dizziness. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to maintain balance and overall health during these warm months.
Tip 3: Clear Outdoor Pathways:
Regularly remove leaves, branches, and other obstacles from walkways to reduce the potential for tripping hazards, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those using assistive devices.
Tip 4: Schedule Activities During Daylight Hours:
To ensure maximum visibility, plan activities such as exercising, playing outdoor games, or yard work during daylight hours. If you plan to enjoy an evening bonfire, be sure to use adequate lighting such as a flashlight.
Tip 5: Inspect for Hazards:
Check your surroundings for potential hazards such as cracked sidewalks, wet floors from outdoor pools, or holes in the grass, which could contribute to a fall.
Tip 6: Ask for Assistance:
We all value independence, and yet sometimes, it is important to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s carrying heavy items around or completing yard work, even a little assistance can help prevent accidents.
Tip 7: Avoid Low Seating:
Refrain from using low chairs, such as beach chairs or benches, which may make standing up or sitting down more challenging and increase the risk of a fall.
Tip 8: Allow Extra Time for Tasks:
Plan and allow yourself an additional 10–15 minutes for appointments or activities to avoid rushing.
Tip 9: Take Regular Breaks:
To avoid overexertion and fatigue, be sure to take regular breaks during physical activities. This will help maintain your energy levels and reduce the likelihood of falls.
Tip 10: Go Swimming:
Swimming is a highly beneficial summer activity that offers numerous health advantages. It provides a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints, while effectively enhancing balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Additionally, swimming supports cardiovascular health and is conducted in a controlled, safe environment, minimizing the risk of falls.
As you prepare for the months ahead in Madison, embrace the summer season while always keeping fall prevention in mind. Enjoy the sunshine, stay active, see family, and engage in activities that bring you joy, but always remember to prioritize your safety to reduce the risk of falls and maintain confidence in your movement as you step into Wisconsin summertime!
Join a falls prevention class in Madison and throughout Dane County to help put these tips into practice. Find a workshop here: https://safercommunity.net/falls-prevention/#classes.
