Week 1: Emergency Preparedness:

The first week of June is National CPR and AED Awareness Week, spotlighting how lives can be saved if more Americans know CPR and how to use an AED. Delivering first aid quickly and effectively can be lifesaving. Every second counts when someone has lost consciousness and no longer has a heartbeat. Be prepared to save a life; learn first aid from the experts. Find first aid, CPR and AED training here.

Week 2: Slips, trips and falls

The second week of June focuses on reducing slips, trips and falls. Falls can happen while walking on a level surface, climbing a ladder, changing a light fixture, and much more. According to the CDC, more than one in four older adults report a fall every year. Many falls can be prevented by making simple changes:

• Keep floors clean and clear of clutter
• Keep electrical cords out of high-traffic areas
• Clean up spills immediately
• Use no-skid throw rugs in slippery places
• Wear proper shoes and clothing

Review NSC’s fall prevention checklist here.

Week 3: Heat-related illness

Summer heat can be dangerous. A high body temperature can make it difficult for your body to function normally. Heat-related illnesses can escalate rapidly and can lead to death.

When temperatures are high, be sure to:

• Stay cool indoors: Seek places with air conditioning. To beat the heat, consider visiting a mall, movie theater, public library, swimming pool, etc.
• Stay hydrated: Drink fluids frequently throughout the day.
• Wear sunscreen: If you will be in direct sun, protect yourself by putting on SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.
• Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully: Try to limit your activity during the hottest part of the day. If you plan to be out in the heat, plan your activities when it’s coolest, like morning and evening. Rest often in shady areas.
• Stay Informed: Check your local news for extreme heat alerts. Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and how to treat them.

For more tips on preventing heat-related illness, click here.

Week 4: Hazard recognition

Hazards are all around us, even in familiar surroundings such as at home or in the workplace. Examples of hazards can be slippery surfaces, poisonous substances, confined spaces, extreme temperatures and more. By keeping an eye out for hazards, it can help identify and avoid them before an injury occurs. Learn more about hazard recognition here.