Keeping Safe: Tips for a Fun and Reduced-Risk Silly Season

If you’re a fan of the ACC ads, “Have a hmmm”, you’ll be familiar with the thought of being a bit too adventurous and the impact that might have on you and your loved ones – whether it’s not being able to take the kids to sport, or having someone else give you a bath!

So, this summer we’ve put together a few thoughts around keeping yourself and others safe, so that you can all enjoy Christmas and the Kiwi summer together – without worrying who’s going to help you dress when you can’t!

As we dive into summer, it’s the perfect time to enjoy long days, road trips, beach outings, and all kinds of outdoor adventures. While having your insurance in place gives you peace of mind, taking some precautions can help reduce the risks of injury, illness, and accidents, so you can focus on making great memories. Here are some essential tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this summer.

Road Safety: Arrive Alive

Summer often means hitting the road for holidays and day trips, but it’s also a busy time on the roads. Keep yourself and others safe with these road safety tips:

Plan Ahead: Before leaving, make sure your car is travel-ready: inspect your tires for wear and tear, test your lights, top up your windscreen wiper liquid and fill up the tank or charge that battery! Map out your route and check traffic and weather conditions.
Stay Rested: Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents. Ensure you’re well-rested and take regular breaks if driving long distances.
Drive Mindfully: Wear your seatbelt, follow speed limits, keep a safe following distance, and avoid distractions like using your phone. Let other drivers know your intentions by using your indicators.
Have an Emergency Kit: A roadside emergency kit with water, a first-aid kit, basic tools, and a spare tire can be a lifesaver if you break down.

Water Safety: Enjoy the Waves Wisely

Summer and water activities go hand-in-hand, but it’s essential to stay safe around water, whether at the beach, pool, lake or when boating.

Swim in Safe Areas: Always swim between the flags at the beach, and stick to designated swimming areas in rivers and lakes where possible. Swim with friends so you have someone to help out or raise the alarm in case of emergency.
Supervise Children Closely: Kids can get into trouble in water quickly. Keep a close eye on them, and ensure they have appropriate flotation devices if they’re young or inexperienced swimmers.
Know Your Limits: If you’re not a strong swimmer, avoid deep water and strong currents. Don’t hesitate to use life vests for water sports. If in doubt – stay out.
Safer boating: Always wear a life jacket, take 2 waterproof ways to call for help, check the marine forecast and be a responsible skipper.
Avoid Alcohol Near Water: Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, which can be dangerous near water. Save the drinks for after you’re done swimming or boating.

Sun Safety: Protect Your Skin and Eyes

The warmth of the sun may feel great, but our strong UV rays can damage your skin and eyes quickly, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Remember to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap.

Slip into the shade: Try to avoid direct sun exposure between 10am to 4pm when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Slip on clothing: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light clothing to shield your skin
Slap on the sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum of at least SPF 30+ sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outside, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Wrap on sunglasses: Choose close fitting, wrap around style sunglasses. Not all sunglasses protect against UV radiation, so check the label for the sun protection rating.

DIY: Do It Yourself, But Do It Safely

With warm weather and more time on our hands, Kiwi’s love to get stuck into DIY projects over the summer months. Here’s how to reduce the chance of injury:

Use Proper Equipment: Make sure you’re using the right tools and equipment for the job. Avoid makeshift solutions, which can lead to accidents.
Wear Protective Gear: Gloves, goggles, sturdy footwear, and hearing protection are essential for DIY safety.
Watch Out for Hazards: Be mindful of ladders, power tools, and chemicals. Read instructions carefully, and have a first-aid kit nearby in case of accidents.
Take Your Time: Rushing a project often leads to mistakes and injuries. Take breaks and plan each step of the process.
Use an expert: When it comes to high risk DIY, such as dealing with electricity, working at heights or dealing with large trees, make sure you bring in the professionals.

Child Safety: Keep Kids Safe While They Play

Summer is all about freedom, but it’s also important to keep our kids safe and injury free.

Supervise Play: Watch kids when they’re near water, playing on trampolines, riding bikes, cooking or other activities that could result in injury.
Teach Basic Safety Rules: Help kids understand boundaries and rules, especially around pools, roads, and unfamiliar animals.
Stay Vigilant in Crowded Places: When you’re out with kids, particularly in busy public areas, keep an eye on them to prevent them from wandering off.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures: Keep It Safe and Fun

Kiwis love to venture into the great outdoors during summer, with camping, tramping, kayaking and other adventurous pursuits high on the list. If you’re heading out into nature, follow the land safety code:

Choose the right trip
Understand the weather
Pack warm clothes and extra food
Share your plans and take ways to get help
Take care of yourself and each other

In Summary

A safe and enjoyable summer is all about a little planning and mindfulness. From road trips to beach days, DIY projects to outdoor adventures, these tips will help you make the most of the season while staying safe. Remember, while having insurance is essential, practicing prevention is the best way to avoid accidents and injuries.

Here’s to a fun, relaxing, and safe Kiwi summer for you and your loved ones!