9 Spring Break Safety Tips

9 Spring Break Safety Tips

Spring break begins next week for many of our local schools and thousands of people will be hitting the road for an adventure. While preparing for your getaway keep these spring break safety tips in mind to reduce your risk of injury or being in an accident. Make this spring break a memorable by having fun and keeping yourself and others safe.

TIPS TO AVOID CAR ACCIDENTS:

Will you be road tripping to your destination? Here’s what you need to do to avoid accidents on the open road:

  • Go for a tune-up. To ensure smooth sailing, make sure your car is in good working order. Have your tires, battery, belts, fluids, and air conditioner checked by a qualified mechanic.
  • Get some rest. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driving while drowsy is a contributing factor to 100,000 accidents annual. Get a good night sleep before driving long distances and switch with another adult every couple of hours.
  • Get rid of all distractions. We all know that thousands of people are killed each year as a result of distracted driving. Accidents caused by texting or talking have received media attention, but many things can distract a driver, including eating, using navigation systems, adjusting the radio, grooming and talking to passengers.

TIPS TO AVOID BOATING ACCIDENTS:

Boating is a popular spring break activity, especially here in Florida. No matter how experienced you are as a boater, it’s always good to know the basic safety rules to avoid boating accidents.

  • Check the weather. It’s dangerous to be out on any body of water during a storm or extremely windy conditions. Check your local weather before you head out and don’t take any risks.
  • Use common sense. There aren’t as many rules for the water as there are for the road, so using your common sense is a must. This means operating at a safe speed (especially in crowded areas), staying alert and steering clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also, be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own safety.
  • Use life jackets appropriately. According to DiscoverBoating.com, the majority of drowning victims are a result of boaters not wearing their life jackets. Make sure every person on board has a life jacket that fits.

TIPS TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY:

Accidents don’t only occur while operating motor vehicles. It’s important to be aware during all day-to-day activities.

  • Stay safe in the sun. With all the fun, it’s easy to forget the obvious. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day. Also, make sure to reapply sunscreen often. Your skin hasn’t been in contact with intense sun in several months so it is susceptible to burns.
  • Inspect your hotel room. Make sure your hotel has secure locks on the windows and doors to prevent break-ins. If your hotel offers one, use your room’s safe for storing valuables.
  • Never swim alone. Even the most experienced swimmer can get caught in an undertow. If you are caught in a rip current, don’t bother swimming against it. Instead, swim parallel to shore until the rip passes.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a spring break accident, don’t wait. Contact John Bales Attorneys today for help.