Summer – A Peak Time for Injuries

Keep Urgent Care in Mind

Research also indicates that children represent a large portion of these visits. Last summer alone, over 200,000 children suffered injuries from summertime activities. Once the school year ends, children become more active, spending more time outdoors, often with limited supervision. Even the simple things kids love to enjoy in the summer can become a source of accidents.

Here are some of the most common injuries healthcare providers see during the summer months:

• Bicycle/ATV injuries –  Whether it’s a traditional bicycle, e-bike, scooter or ATV, these accidents can cause serious damage like head injuries, broken bones, bruises, and fractures.  

  
  

• Swimming pools –  Swimming pools are dangerous places without adult supervision and appropriate flotation devices.   Slippery pool decks also cause falls and injuries.

  
  

• Sports injuries –  Many sports practices take place over summer months and can sometimes result in strains, sprains, and even fractures.

  
  

• Sun-related illnesses –  Excess time in the sun can cause many heat-related illnesses such as severe sunburn, heat stroke, dehydration, and more. This is especially true when engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.

  
  

• Burns –  We’re all aware of burns from too much sun, but plenty of burn accidents occur from hot grills and fireworks.

  
  

• Insect and animal bites –  Camping and hiking can expose you to stings and bites from bees, ticks, and other critters.

  
  

• Food poisoning –  Food left out too long at picnics and outdoor barbeques without refrigeration can cause food poisoning and illness if consumed.

Staying Safe

Keep the fun going all summer long, but remember these common-sense guidelines to help you stay safe:

• Appropriate-fitting helmets and protective gear should be worn when riding anything with wheels! 
• Limit sun exposure between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm when UV rays from the sun are most intense. Wear sunscreen and seek shade to help cool off.
  
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Use bug spray to avoid bites.
• Supervise children around pools, fires, and grills. Never assume someone else is watching, especially during parties.
• Warm up before engaging in physical activity.

We all hope summer goes off without a hitch, but if you or a loved one does become ill or injured, knowing where to go for care ahead of time will help you stay prepared.  While some injuries may require the ER, many can be handled at an urgent care center, saving time and money.  And remember, urgent care is also a convenient source for sports physicals and clearance forms. 

You can find San Antonio Urgent Care in four convenient locations throughout the Inland Empire:  Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, and Eastvale. Walk-ins are welcome.  Or, make an appointment through In-Quicker, a service that allows you to wait in the comfort of your home until your appointment time.

Here’s to a happy and safe summer!