July Safety Newsletter (Sign up here to get upcoming newsletters - FREE!)

Make the Last Days of Summer Safe Ones

With the end of summer in sight, millions of people will be busy packing in as much fun as possible during the next few weeks.

Lots of people have vacations on the agenda to help us spend those last few days of summer winding down before we get back into full school and work schedules.

Here are some ideas and resources to help you make your adventures safer and more comfortable:

When you live in California or Alaska, local news sources do a good job of preparing you for earthquakes. Most of us who live here know generally what to do and what not to do if an earthquake strikes.

On the other hand, if you put us in the middle of a tornado or hurricane watch...we won't have a clue!

While you're making travel plans, take some time to think about unfamiliar hazards, and prepare yourself with the information you need to deal with them.

Most places you might go, your hotel or local host will be a good resource for information but it won't hurt to do some planning (not panicking!) ahead of time, so you can relax once you're there.

Taking a vacation to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas or another extra hot climate? Read these tips from the American Red Cross to avoid heat-related illnesses that could put a chill on your trip.

Coming to visit us in sunny California? Here's a short list of do's and don'ts to keep in mind if the ground starts shaking while you're here.

Going to a family reunion or visiting friends in Texas, Kansas, or Missouri? Here are some good resources for information on tornados.

Read up on lightning safety in our May Safety Newsletter.

Visit the U.S. State Department website's "Tips for Traveling Abroad"page for helpful information and links to check for alerts or other special information about your destination. Check discussion forums for related information and even post your own questions that others who have visited the area can answer for you.

However you spend the last few weeks of summer, we hope they are happy, safe and relaxing ones!