The Return of the Weekend Warrior - Summer Safety Tips

Ah yes, the sweet smells of spring bloom combine with lawn mower exhaust and paint fumes to form that unmistakable potion that awakes our inner "Norm" ready to take on that old house! Just as we are reminded every year to slow down and stay alert since all those children are back in our neighborhoods, out of school, let me take a minute to update your summertime safety watch list.

Nothing can be more relaxing on that hot, sunny day than a dip in the pool, so why not start here with our reminders and safety check. If you have an existing pool, then the fence should be at least four-feet high around all four sides of the pool. Don't forget to check and make sure that the fence does not have openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through. Another part of the enclosure to check is the gate. Pool gates should open out from the pool, self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach. Check on the rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver.) Preferably the shepherd's hook and other rescue equipment should be made of fiberglass or other materials that do not conduct electricity.

From the pool to the playground, staying in the fun category, don't forget to safety check and even safely construct that backyard playground. First, remember to install a soft landing. Make sure that your playground is surrounded with materials like shredded rubber, sand, wood chips, or bark and maintained to a depth of at least nine inches. The current rule of thumb is that the protective surface should be installed at least six feet in all directions from the equipment and don't be afraid to add more for swings and slides.

At the beginning of the outdoor play season check all the equipment carefully. Open "S" hooks or protruding bolt ends can prove to be hazards. Swing seats should be made of soft materials such as rubber or plastic. Make sure children can't reach any moving parts that might pinch or trap any body part. Never attach or allow children to attach ropes, jump ropes, leashes, or similar items to play equipment.

Of course we can't have all play and no work; let's refresh a couple lawn mower tips. We should try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go. The rule of thumb is to not permit children younger than 16 to use riding mowers. The walk-behind mowers should not be used by children younger than 12.

Don't forget proper footwear - make sure that sturdy shoes are worn while mowing. Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up objects from the lawn before mowing. Make sure to wear hearing and eye protection. Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and make sure to look for children when you mow in reverse. Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths. Finally, NEVER allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers.

So we swam, played and even mowed…time for dinner? Recent statistical data according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) revealed that last year gas and charcoal grills caused 1,500 structure fires and 4,200 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $29.8 million. So what can we do to avoid this unnecessary tragic ending to any day? Let's refresh some of the basics.

First, remember when using barbecue grills on decks or patios to be sure to leave sufficient space from siding and eaves. When you start getting hot and thirsty have someone else bring you that refreshing beverage to make sure you always supervise the barbecue grill when it's in use. Just like the lawn mower, keep children and pets far away from the grill. When using charcoal grills, make sure that you only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and never add lighter fluid after coals have been lit. With gas grills, you must be sure that the hose connection is tight and check those hoses carefully for leaks. The best way to check for leaks is to apply soapy water to the hoses and look for any bubbles.

In the Safety and Buildings Division our focus is health, safety and welfare in the places where people live, work and play. This summer remember that it doesn't matter if you're at home, working or playing, keep it healthy and safe and live well!

-- Henry Kosarzycki