3 Tips for a Safe & Fun Summer Season
Summer is about spending time outdoors and participating in fun activities with family and friends. The RISE Services, Inc. Arizona team has enjoyed many summers outdoors with individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), elderly members, and direct support professionals (DSP). In addition to training your staff in CPR and first aid and following sun and water safety guidelines, consider these three tips for staying safe during your summer adventures.
1. Stay Hydrated
The best way to protect yourself and others from hot, sunny temperatures is to remain hydrated. When an individual is dehydrated, their body loses valuable fluids and electrolytes, and soon, it cannot keep up with the demand for water. This is why drinking only water throughout the day is important, even when you don’t feel thirsty. If you suspect dehydration, watch for signs like headaches, nausea, fatigue, blurred vision, dry mouth, and blistered skin.
2. Avoid the Sun
Being in the sun can be very healthy for you. It improves mood and boosts immunity; 10-30 minutes each day provides the body with plenty of Vitamin D. Too much sun, however, can leave individuals exposed to ultraviolet rays, sunburn, and heat stroke, which needs immediate medical attention. Make sure all members of the group — DSPs, individuals with I/DD, and elderly participants — are aware of these helpful habits when exposed to the sun:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF 15 or higher.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible.
3. Stay Safe in the Water
Before arriving at the beach or community pool, all DSPs need to be aware of the swimming capabilities of participants within their group. Responsible staff should feel comfortable going in the water and supervising their participants. Avoid giving DSPs this responsibility if they are not familiar with water safety, do not know how to swim, or have anxiety about supervising group members in the water. Before entering the water, review water safety risks and rules, such as wearing life jackets or flotation devices and reapplying sunscreen often, with all participants, including individuals with I/DD.
Providing Personal Growth Opportunities for Children, Adults, and Families
RISE Arizona offers several services that provide mentorship, coaching, and caretaking for elderly individuals and people living with disabilities. Through many of our programs, such as Opportunity Centers, Family Support, and Senior In-Home Care services, we do more than care for individual needs. We encourage friendships and camaraderie between participants and DSPs through planned events and special celebrations. Contact us today to learn more about RISE Arizona and how we can assist your loved ones.
“Summer Safety – Health and Welfare Alert,” Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, last modified February 6, 2023, accessed June 10, 2024, https://dodd.ohio.gov/health-and-welfare/health-and-welfare-alerts/health-and-welfare-alert-summer-safety
