As the hemlines go up with the temperature, and snuggling up on the couch is replaced with rooftop BBQs and pool parties, the virtues of the balmy nights and long days spent outside brings with it many health risks. As a forensic cleaning company, Biohazard Trauma and Crime Scene Cleaning provides discreet and compassionate cleaning services to families and businesses that are faced with the unbearable task of cleaning up after an unattended death, sewage leak, or other biohazard clean up. While the countdown to the end of the year is on at most workplaces across the country, our technicians are on stand-by 24/7 over the Christmas and New Year period no matter how big or small the clean up may be.
Read on to see our 5 helpful hints designed to keep you and your loved ones safe during the Christmas holiday and Summer months this year.
Safety Away from Home
Summer holidays means less time at home and more time in the outdoors, likely in groups who are more than happy to let their hair down and explore. Summer camps have become a popular right of passage for many children in Australia and it might surpise ou to learn there is a huge number of different summer camp specialities including surf camps, band camps, computer camps and even business camps for the budding economist or CEO.
As in any close quarters, this also means the risk of communicable diseases such as Stress good hygiene practices before children leave home, and instruct them not to share personal items like toothbrushes, water bottles, or towels with other campers.
Don’t Forget the Pets
Animals suffer from the heat, too. Remember to make sure they have adequate supplies of water and food when you are away, even if just for one afternoon. Fans don’t help animals as much as people because of their furs, so make sure your animal has an air conditioned place to retreat to. Avoid walking dogs on concrete during hot, sunny days – and never leave an animal in a car, even with the windows cracked open. For more ways to keep your furry buddies cool, check out the RSPCA Australia website.
Water Safety
There are many articles out there about how to keep children safe around water during the summer. And while we all know that drinking lots of fluids is key to surviving hot days, be sure to balance this with sports drinks or foods that contain sodium. Sodium helps the body retain water, and prevents the kidneys from overworking. Check out these tips for more information on water intoxication and safety and to ensure you have a safe and compliant pool fence.
Avoid a Summer Cold
If you’re planning time away from running water, anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizers can help keep icky germs at bay. Bring some along to the beach and on picnics, bike rides, and other outdoor activities. If you do get sick, don’t be tempted to keep going just because everyone else is out having fun. Treat a summer cold with the same seriousness as a winter infection, with extra rest and hydration.
Keep an Eye on the Elderly
Check on older relatives, and be sure they have the resources and ability to endure warmer temperatures. On hot and humid days, older people and those with chronic health problems should stay indoors in cool areas. Those without air conditioners relocate to cooler places like senior centres, shopping centres, and movie theatres. If you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, get him or her into a cooler, shadier or air-conditioned area. Encourage the person to shower, bathe or sponge off with cool water if it is safe to do so. Applying a cold, wet cloth to the wrists, neck, and armpits can also help.
