Summer is quickly approaching, and for many it will be a time to take advantage of the warm weather with friends and family by cooking out and enjoying each other’s company. However, many favorite summer activities can entail a fair amount of risk of injury. Do not let a day at the pool or a trip to an amusement park end in disaster. Take time to learn a few safety tips and best practices to help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer holiday.
Summers in West Virginia mean grilling out for many families. Take some time to prepare your grill and learn a few safety tips and best practices to avoid common injuries, such as burns, fires, and even explosions.
Always take time to ensure your grill is in safe working order before using it. Failing to turn off the propane flow or leaving a grill lit for too long unattended are extreme fire hazards.
If you plan on drinking alcohol over your summer holiday, do so responsibly. Never drink and drive. If you have guests coming to visit for summer, make sure they do not drive under the influence. Arrange for alternative transportation if needed. If a guest leaves your home under the influence and causes an accident, you could face liability.
Even in the northern states, summer usually entails higher temperatures and more sun exposure. If you plan to spend your summer outside, take time to protect yourself from sun exposure. Wear light and breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and eyes, and sunscreen with a high SPF rating to limit skin damage from sun exposure. Comfortable, breathable clothing and proper hydration can also help prevent heatstroke.
Do not head out on the water without first checking your boat for any safety issues. Look for signs of corrosion, rust, electrical problems, engine issues, and leaks. Conduct any necessary repairs before bringing your boat out for the summer. Also check to make sure you have all the proper safety devices, including life jackets, and that nothing has deteriorated in storage.
While operating a boat, pay attention to the waterway ahead. Never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Watch for swimmers, divers, and other boaters. Boat at a safe speed for conditions. Obey any posted waterway traffic signs, such as No Wake zones. If you cause a boat accident, you could be financially responsible for the damages of the victims, including your passengers.
Going to an amusement park is a common adventure for families during the summer. Yet park owner and employee negligence could make the visit more dangerous than visitors anticipated. Injuries on rides, slip and fall accidents, and in parking lots could lead to spending your summer in recovery.
Following these tips should help you and your friends and family to have a safe and enjoyable summer. If you or a loved one suffers an injury due to another party’s negligence this summer, reach out to a reliable personal injury attorney in West Virginia to discuss your legal options.
Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.
We offer a free initial consultation at our office in the Manchin Professional Building — our home since 1983 — conveniently located in Fairmont.
If you are unable to visit our firm, we can come to your home or hospital room.
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