How to Handle Summer Emergencies

Written by Kelly Tenny | 02. July 2014

It’s easy to get caught up in the fun of summer activities but proper summer safety procedures and precautions are still necessary during this seemingly carefree time. The summer can be a very dangerous time, for adults, children, and animals. The scorching heat mixed with those pesky bugs that seem to come out in hoards during the warmer months, are just the beginning.

Knowing who to call during an emergency is imperative.

For necessary police services and emergency health services please call 911 immediately.

Nassau County
Emergency Ambulance: 516-571-2672
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Nassau County Main Number: 800-421-1220
Nassau County Office of Emergency Management: 516-573-0636
American Red Cross: 516-747-3500

Suffolk County
Non-Emergency Police Response: 1-631-852-COPS
PSEG Long Island: 1-800-490-0075
National Grid: 1-800-490-0045
Poison Control: 800-222-1221
Red Cross: 631-924-6911
Suffolk County Water Authority: 631-665-0663
Suffolk County Health Department: 631-854-0000
Suffolk County Public Works: 631-852-4010
Suffolk County Office of the Aging: 631-853-8200

Here are some helpful resources and information about how to keep yourself, and your family, safe this summer.

In The Heat
Heat-related illnesses are a very serious problem during the summer. If you’re spending too much time in the heat and aren’t properly hydrated you can suffer from serious ailments like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. Take periodic breaks from the severe heat because getting your body temperature to rise very quickly is done much more easily than lowering it back down to a healthy temperature again.

Heat-related illnesses are not just a problem that humans have to face during the hot months but animals too. Make sure your pets are safe and taken care of this summer.

Heat Safety Resources:

By The Water
Taking a dip in the pool or wading in the water at the beach are both great ways to cool off and make a splash this summer. Now, before you start making waves be sure to brush up on all poolside and beach safety precautions. Supervision is number one when it comes to water safety, always have a partner, or if you’re a child, an adult present to supervise in case of injury or emergency.

Risk of drowning is a huge issue when it comes to water safety. The Red Cross offers classes in CPR, first-aid, and emergency preparedness. Go to their website to find a class close to you so you can be prepared no matter what happens.

Water Safety Resources:

In The Sun
Summer is the prime time to soak up the sun and add some extra color to your skin tone. As much as everyone loves having that summer tan sun damage and related diseases are very serious. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer throughout the United States.

So, if you’re going to be lounging in the sun, or even just out in the open during the summer doing activities like boating, golfing, or working outside in the garden, it’s important to protect your skin and your eyes from harmful rays.

Sun Safety Resources:

Having Fun Safely in the Sun: Sun Safety This Summer

In The Woods
Many people during the summer months like to spend a lot of time outside, enjoying the nice weather while they still have it. Activities like camping, hiking, and exploring new trails are very popular during this time. Choosing to spend the day getting lost in the woods, getting in touch with nature, and spending the day being active are all very positive aspects but of course the woods can have its downsides too.

Wooded, over grown areas are a breeding ground for insects, and many of the common summer insects, like ticks and mosquitoes, can carry disease with them. Also, if you aren’t aware of the different plant life around you, you can also succumb to allergic reactions by accidentally coming in contact with plants like poison ivy and poison oak.

Woods Safety Resources:

Have a wonderful and safe summer.

[Source: Nassau County, Suffolk County, Red Cross]