Letter from Tennessee River Executive Director, Faye Anderson - August 2016

The Dog Days of Summer

With summer in full swing, I wanted to remind everyone of how important it is to stay safe during the summer season.  High temperatures, humidity, and hot indoor environments can quickly cause heat-related emergencies.  Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The Red Cross has some simple steps to help beat the heat:

• Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. The temperature inside can reach a dangerous level within a few minutes.
• Slow down, take frequent breaks, and drink more water than usual – even if you’re not thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• If working outdoors, take frequent breaks and use the buddy system.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone, or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If possible, bring animals inside. If not, frequently check to ensure they are comfortable and have water and a shady place to rest.

Red Cross also offers mobile apps to help keep you and your family safe. The free Red Cross Emergency App provides instant access to expert heat safety tips. Users also have the option of receiving alerts for excessive heat watches, warnings and heat advisories. The Red Cross Pet First Aid App has steps pet owners should take to help keep their furry friends safe during hot weather. People can find the apps in their app store by searching for American Red Cross and at redcross.org/apps.

This summer also brings increased risk of summer drownings.  Make sure your loved ones can pass the critical “water competency” test.

The five critical water safety skills, also known as “water competency,” must be performed in this order:

• Step or jump into the water over your head.
• Return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute.
• Turn around in a full circle and find an exit.
• Swim 25 yards to the exit.
• Exit from the water. If in a pool, be able to exit without using the ladder.

If you are in a public area, keep an eye out for people who may need your help!  Remember to take a CPR, first aid, and AED Class to make sure you are prepared in case you are needed in case of an emergency!  On behalf of the Tennessee River Chapter of the American Red Cross….Have a safe and happy summer!!