As Canadians prepare to open their cottages or go camping this long weekend, we want to share these Red Cross tips to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable trip.
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Protect your skin: wear sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and reapply regularly. Skin can burn even when the sun doesn’t feel hot.
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Prevent mosquito and insect bites: pack insect repellant, dress in long-sleeved tops and long pants and avoid using highly scented products.
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Plan for the unexpected: carry a first aid kit in your vehicle so supplies for cuts, scrapes and bites are always handy. Different sizes and style are available to suit a variety of needs.
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Get the app: download the Red Cross first aid app to ensure essential first aid information is at your fingertips. There’s no data use when accessing the app - that means it can be used even when you have no reception.
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Know your surroundings: be careful in unexplored areas, remember to take a flashlight when venturing out after dark and tell someone when you’ll return.
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Stay safe on the water: always wear a lifejacket when on a boat or other watercraft - even if the water seems shallow. Open water is often unpredictable as waves and water temperature are variable.
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Never leave children unsupervised: an adult who can swim should actively watch children around the water at all times.
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Exercise caution around fires: place a stone barrier around campfires or bonfires to ensure everyone stays a safe distance away and ensure all embers are out before leaving the site.
Some cottages and campsites are located in more remote areas where it may take emergency medical services (EMS) longer to respond. Familiarize yourself with the closest medical facility, hospital and pharmacy.
Learn the essentials with Red Cross – our
Wilderness & Remote First Aid course and
Red Cross Swim lessons will provide you with the knowledge and skills to keep you and your family safe all summer long.
Have a great long weekend, everyone!