Gig Harbor Fire Department: Summer Safety Tips

Summer is officially in full swing, and Gig Harbor Fire and Medic One is reminding everyone to be safe while they're out and about. The fire department issued the following statement:

School is out for the summer and families are on the go…time to relax and enjoy some vacation time together. Before the bags are packed and the kids are loaded in to the car, wants to share with you of a few important safety reminders that may help make your family vacation much more enjoyable. 

First, take a few minutes to look at your child’s car or booster seat to ensure your child has not outgrown it and that it is installed in your vehicle correctly. If you are have questions, call the Prevention Division at 253-851-5111 and set up an appointment to have your child’s car seat checked before you head out on vacation. Keep in mind that every day nearly 200 kids 4-8 years old in the United States need emergency care for injuries suffered in car crashes. Every other day, one of these children dies from those injuries.  

While child safety seats are used widely by parents for kids under 4 years old, kids 4-8 also require special attention to stay safe from life-threatening injuries from car crashes. Because most seat belts do not properly fit a person who is under 4 foot 9 inches tall, be sure your child is safely riding in a booster seat--it's best for your child, and also it's the law in our state. Washington State law requires a child has to be properly restrained at all times and sitting in the back seat whenever practical to do so until they are 13 years of age. Make sure all the adults are buckled up too!

If you have a teen driver, now is a good time to review your expectations. Is your son or daughter still driving under Washington's graduated license? Talk to your teen about passengers, use of mobile phones, speeding and other safety concerns.   

Next, if your family is planning to spend any amount of time in or around rivers, lakes or the ocean, take the time to learn about the type of water your family plans to visit and the potential dangers that body of water possess. Over 1,500 children and teens die every year in the U.S. from drowning. In Washington State, an average of 25 children and teens drown every year. Most young victims are swimming, boating or just playing in or near water. Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One has teamed up with Big 5 to offer 25 percent off life jackets. For a coupon visit www.drowning-prevention.org 

And last, check your helmets for proper fit and condition. Children’s heads grow and it is important their helmet fits their head correct in order to provide the best protection for their brain. Helmet should fit low on the forehead, the ears straps should form a V around the ears and the chin strap should fit snug under the chin. Just like the picture below….and if you need a new helmet you can visit our station located on Kimball or Headquarters on Bujacich Rd. for a custom fit helmet. 

“Accidents” are the leading cause of death and hospitalization for everyone ages 1-44. By doing our part to prevent injuries we all will have a much more enjoyable summer vacation. Happy travels from Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One.