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Tips to help your family enjoy summer

Summer is all about sunshine, backyard fun, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Whether you’re grilling dinner, enjoying a fire pit or relaxing by the pool, it’s important to keep safety in mind.

Here are a few simple tips to help you and your family enjoy all the fun that comes along with summer.

Grilling & Fire Pit Safety

Place grills and fire pits at least 10 feet from anything that can burn.

Never leave them unattended, and fully put out flames before going inside.

Outdoor Electrical Safety

Check cords and outlets before use. Replace damaged ones, and only use outdoor-rated equipment.

Keep everything dry and covered.

Pool & Water Safety

Always stay close when kids or new swimmers are in or near water.

Pools should be fenced with a self-latching gate to prevent unsupervised access.

Yard Fire Prevention

Clear out dry leaves, branches and debris. Trim back trees near your home and power lines to lower fire risk.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Test smoke alarms monthly. Practice your fire escape plan and make sure everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher.

Help your pet be prepared as well

Pets are family, too, so making sure they are safe is also important.

Building a pet emergency kit can help them stay calm, feel safe and enjoy summer just as much as you.

A pet emergency kit should include items like:

• Comfort items: blanket or toys

• Litter, litter box and bags

• Pet first aid items (bandages, antiseptic, tweezers)

• Keep ID tags updated

• Consider microchipping your pets

• Know where to go that’s pet-friendly

• Keep leashes, carriers and crates ready to go

• Practice getting pets into carriers so it’s less stressful

• Have a backup plan: Arrange for a neighbor or friend to help if you’re not home

• Share your contact info and pet care details

• Keep a list of emergency contacts like your vet and local shelters