PICNIC SAFETY

The American Red Cross of the Susquehanna Valley urges families to think about safety when planning holiday and summer picnics. It’s important to use the following safety tips from the local Red Cross to prevent potential disasters during the family and friendly gatherings.

Insect Stings: Carry your insect sting kit if you have known allergies to insect stings. Avoid wearing floral clothing and scented lotions and perfumes that may attract insects.

Ticks: If you find a tick, remove it by using a steady and firm hand to pull it. Grasp the tick with fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull slowly. Was the area and apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment. Watch the area for infection. See a physician if you see signs of a rash in that area.

Keep Cold Foods Cold: Dairy products and foods containing dairy ingredients should be kept cold to avoid food poisoning. Also, do not store perishable foods in the car where temperatures are usually hotter than outside in the car.

Grills: Keep children away from grills and lighter fluid. If someone is burned, follow these first aid steps:

• Stop the burning: Put out the flames or remove victim from the source of burn.
• Cool the burn: Apply large amounts of cold water immediately. (Aloe is not recommended because the ointment will contain the heat.)
• Cover the burn: Loosely apply dry, sterile dressings to burned area.
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number.

Sun Exposure: Any skin exposed to the sun should be protected by no less that 15 SPF sunblock to prevent sun burns and skin damage.

Water Safety: Never leave children unattended near or in water. (Floatation devices cannot substitute adult supervision.) Be sure every person in your family can swim.