As you enjoy all the fun and festivities that summer has to offer, remember that this season brings
higher instances of traumatic and heat-and water-related injuries.

“Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States,” noted Alex Haines, trauma
manager, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. According to the American Trauma Society, more than 600
deaths occur each year from heat-related incidents.

“There are many ways to prevent heat illness. One is to keep hydrated by drinking cool non-alcoholic
beverages,” Alex said. “Another is to wear lightweight clothing that protects you from the UV rays of
the sun. If you’re outside during the hottest parts of the day, it’s important to take frequent breaks and
rehydrate.”

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There are significant increases in fireworks-related injuries in June and July. Every year, patients are
treated in the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital Emergency Department because of fireworks-related
injuries.

Trooper Julio Trejo from the Pennsylvania State Police shared the following reminders related to
fireworks safety.

–  Must be 18 years of age or older to purchase fireworks.
–  Never allow children to handle fireworks. Replace sparklers with glow sticks for
children.
– Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings, vehicles, and trees.
–  Have a bucket of water, charged water hose, and fire extinguisher nearby.
–  Read the caution labels and performance descriptions before lighting.
–  Obey all local laws and ordinances regarding the use of fireworks.

Did you know that drowning is the leading cause of injury-related deaths among children ages 1 to 4
in the summer months?


Here are some tips for swimming safety:

–  Watch children when they are around or in water.
–  Make sure to designate a “Water Watcher.” A water watcher is an adult who is
responsible for watching children in or near the water.
–  Teach children how to swim. Check out your local YMCA or community pool to see
when swimming lessons are offered.
–  When swimming in open water, make sure to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life
jacket.

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