Summer is a great time to be outdoors; however, being exposed to hot weather for too long can result in serious health problems. In 2006, between the months of May to August, 611 unintentional-injury deaths occurred due to heat exposure. Take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses and monitor children and the elderly during heat waves.

Summer is also a time of increased travel on our nation's roads. Fatalities between motorists and motorcycle riders have increased 131 percent between 1998 and 2008. Remember to watch for motorcyclists this summer when navigating the roadways.

The mileage death rate for motorcyclists was 37 times greater than for passenger car occupants in 2007.* You can greatly decrease these staggering numbers. Don’t just glance, look for all types of vehicles.

It’s important to:
• Understand the vulnerability of a motorcyclist. The most common cause of motorcyclist deaths is drivers not seeing them.

• Be extra cautious in intersections. A vehicle turning left in front of a motorcycle is a dangerous situation.

• Encourage motorcycling friends and family to practice safety in wearing bright colors and helmets.

* National Safety Council Injury Facts, 2010 Edition.

For more information on reducing risk or any of our other services, please contact Jeff Harrison at jeff.harrison@cbservices.org or 800.807.0300 ext 2543.