by Amy Yen, volunteer contributor, American Red Cross

July is Parks and Recreation Month!

But before you go out and celebrate with friends and family, check out these essential park safety tips! Because it’s all fun and games until someone is passed out from heat stroke on the tire swing. That’s a bummer for everyone.

First of all, as you might have noticed, it is SUPER hot outside. Wear loose, light-colored clothing and make sure you are staying hydrated. Here are more heat safety tips to keep in mind.

When you drink from a water fountain, make sure to maintain a safe distance from the spout, and do not touch the splash guard when consuming water from the fountain.

Don’t forget about your pets! They’re susceptible to heat stroke too! Never leave your pets in the car and make sure they have plenty of water. Here’s more information about how to keep your pets safe in the heat.

Parks are great, but the great outdoors do have their perils.

While you’re spending time outside, the inevitable injury may occur. Consider putting a first aid kit in your car so you have easy access to basic tools. Here’s what we recommend should go in a first aid kit, or here are several you can buy.

No one wants to get hurt, but if an everyday emergency does happen, do you know what to do? Download the free Red Cross First Aid app to get tips right on your phone on basic ways to treat any sprain, cut or burn that might happen. Want to be extra prepared? Take a first aid class! Here’s where you can find one near you.

So, head to the parks this month with no fear! Happy Parks and Rec Month!