Tips for Summer – Hassle-free season!
With summer already here, things can get a little bit hectic. As camping, swimming, vacations, and a whole list full of activities are upon us, here are some tips to help make your summer a little less frenzied and a little bit safer.
1. Keep a summer fun bag.
Keep a summer bag well stocked with all the season’s essentials:
- sunscreen
- bug repellant
- mini first aid kit
- small cooler – which you’ll replenish every time you go out
Having this bag always packed on the back of my car allows us to be more spontaneous on our outings and less hassle when we want to go out with the boys. I like to keep one extra set of clothes, flip-flops, a towel and a swim trunk in the car as well. This has saved me many times!
2. Protect your home while you’re on vacation.
Lock all windows and doors, and ask a trusted neighbor to check on your home when you’re away. If you’ll be gone for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to set timers on interior lights to deter burglars, and take jewelry and valuable papers to a safe deposit box. Check this post for a complete list of precautions you can take when leaving town.
3. Keep pets safe.
If you keep your pets outside, provide plenty of water and shade for them at all times, and never leave animals in a parked car as it is as unsafe for them as it is for us.
Be sure your pet is on heartworm protection, as mosquitoes transmit heartworm. Resist the temptation to shave your pets’ fur. His coat will protect him from getting sunburned. In addition, his fur acts as a cooling insulation. Check pets for ticks often.
4. Beat summer traffic.
Hit the road before sunrise for longer trips, before everyone else.
Leave all you will need in the morning already lined up and packed so you can have a clear mind to check the house, make sure everything is in the car or suitcases and leave on vacation without worries or stresses.
Things like selecting what to wear, setting up breakfast, double-checking your purse and documents, placing the cleaned cooler in the kitchen can be done the night before.
5. Drink plenty of water.
Water is the ultimate defense against heat stroke and dehydration. Keep yourself and your family hydrated this summer. You should drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.
If you are traveling by car make sure you have enough water for everyone. This will save you money on stops big way! We carry medium size water coolers for the boys and ourselves with plenty of ice to keep the water fresh.
6. Remember food safety.
Keep all foods in a cooler until you are ready to eat or cook them. Any food left out for more than an hour should be tossed. If you’re not sure about something,don’t risk it. Food poisoning is serious and it can ruin your so awaited vacation. Be sure to wash hands often when handling food.
Growing up in Brazil, my grandfather took all his grandchildren yearly on a 30 days road trip (my poor grandma!). I learned a lot from watching them prepare for the trip and also from experience. I have had my fair share of “not so fresh food” back in the days! 😉
7. Share your tip!
Summer is a time to celebrate fun and family, but it is also a time that requires us to be extra-cautious so our vacations don’t get spoiled. May you have a healthy summer, and always remember to make lasting memories.
Have a beautiful day!
Helena
