Summer is here! It’s time for sunshine, outdoor fun, and making memories—but summer also has a tendency to bring more people to their nearest ER. Most emergency rooms are busier in the summer months, with the peak number of visits happening on July 4th. The East Adams emergency room sees it all at this time of year, from sunburns to sprained ankles to severe allergic reactions.
The emergency team is ready whenever you need us—but we know that many summer ER visits are totally preventable. Before you head outside to soak up the sun, read these tips to keep your summer fun a little safer.
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The Most Common Reasons for Summer ER Visits
You might be surprised at how quickly a relaxing summer day can turn into a visit to the nearest ER. These are some of the most common injuries and conditions treated in emergency rooms during the summer:
- Outdoor activity injuries: Biking, hiking, and sports can lead to sprains, broken bones, and bruises. Falls from playgrounds and trampolines are also common.
- Heat-related illnesses: Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are severe conditions that can come on quickly, especially during outdoor work or exercise.
- Burns: From sunburns to BBQ mishaps and campfire accidents, burns are a common summer injury.
- Cuts and lacerations: Yard work and outdoor equipment are some of the most common culprits behind ER-worthy wounds.
- Insect bites and allergic reasons: Bee stings, mosquito bites, and exposure to allergens can lead to swelling and more severe reactions.
- Water-related injuries: Whether it’s a slip near the pool or an accident while swimming, careless water play can lead to unexpected accidents.
5 Tips for Preventing Summer Injuries
Planning can help you avoid a trip to the emergency room this summer. Here are some of our top tips to help you stay safe outdoors:
1. Stay Hydrated
Water is your best friend on hot days! Carry a water bottle with you and avoid drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
2. Use Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Make sunglasses and a hat part of your daily summer wardrobe.
3. Supervise Kids Closely
Whether they are swimming in a wading pool, jumping on a trampoline, or using the lawnmower, remember to keep an eye on kids when they’re outside. Accidents happen quickly, and the sooner you can provide help, the better.
4. Wear the Right Footwear
Flip flops are a favorite summer shoe, but they don’t do much to protect your feet. Close-toed shoes prevent falls and keep feet safer from injuries, especially when doing yard work or outdoor activities like hiking.
5. Know Your Limits
Pushing yourself too hard in the heat can lead to heat exhaustion or worse conditions. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and wear light, loose clothes. Don’t ignore symptoms like dizziness or nausea—these are signs it’s time to take a break and rehydrate.
When to Head to the Nearest ER
Even with the best precautions, emergencies will happen. Call 911 or visit the nearest ER if someone experiences:
- Signs of heatstroke, such as confusion, fainting, rapid pulse, or a high body temperature
- A severe allergic reaction that results in swelling in the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or a rash
- Deep wounds that won’t stop bleeding
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Chest pain
Our emergency department in Ritzville is open 24/7 and staffed with skilled professionals who can provide expert care when it’s needed most.
Enjoy Your Summer Safely
Summertime should be about enjoying long sunny days, not sitting in the ER. If an accident does happen, though, know that the nearest ER at East Adams Rural Healthcare is here for you.
Have questions about our emergency services? Learn more about our services on our website or call our team to get answers today.
