(haipo) As millions of students head out for summer vacation, middle and high school students on June 20 and other students in the education system on June 30, Magen David Adom is publishing a comprehensive guide for parents and children that includes safety guidelines for preventing injuries and harm at sea, in the pool, on roads, at home, and on trips. MDA is preparing for an expected increase in injury cases during the summer.
MDA is increasing its forces and deploying unique rescue measures
Throughout the summer months, MDA's unique rescue vehicles will operate in an enhanced format, including the Sea-Ambulance and intensive care boats in the Sea of Galilee and on the beaches of Eilat. MDA-Rescue Air's intensive care helicopters, which operate around the clock all year round, will also be on standby during the summer months for the benefit of travelers, bathers and those spending time all over the country from north to south. In addition, MDA is currently reinforcing driving and caution instructions for all drivers of ambulances, motorcycles and special vehicles, since many children are near roads during this period. MDA Director General Eli Bean said, "Millions of teenagers and children are heading out for summer vacation in the coming days. It is important not to forget the dangers inherent in this period. One second of inattention is enough to exact a heavy price on a person. Most accidents happen in and around the home, and therefore parents are required to be more involved than usual."
Precautions at the beach and in pools
MDA emphasizes that swimming should only be done at designated beaches and pools that are supervised by a lifeguard, and while there are rescue services. If you arrive after the lifeguard's operating hours, do not enter the water. Always stay within sight of the lifeguard and avoid dangerous games, including "drowning games," jumping on people in the water, and jumping headfirst into shallow water for fear of injury to the spine and head. In addition, swimming in the breakwater area is not allowed, where strong eddies may form that pull you to the seabed, and swimming under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. Swimmers must know their abilities and not reach exhaustion, always considering the way back.
Special warnings about babies and children near water
MDA warns that infants and children up to the age of 5 are a population particularly prone to drowning. Due to their body structure, their heavy and large heads relative to the body, and their high center of gravity, they may tip over with their heads forward into the water and drown. Drowning occurs within a few moments, and a few minutes of inattention are enough. You must remain within arm's reach of children in the water at all times and concentrate only on them. Floats and life preservers provide a false sense of security and do not provide full protection. In private pools, any passage towards the pool must be fenced off and closed as long as there is no adult supervising the area. Sun protection must also be ensured, including applying sunscreen and wearing a full swimsuit for babies.
Be careful on the road and in the car – risk of heatstroke for children
MDA strongly warns that children and toddlers should not be left unattended in a car for even a single moment, even when the windows are open. In the summer, the car heats up quickly, and a child left in the car is exposed to the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and even death. Make sure that all children are buckled in safety seats that are appropriate for their age and weight, and that the car doors in the area of their seats are locked using a "child lock." It is recommended to leave a wallet, bag, or mobile phone with the child to prevent forgetting when getting out of the car. Also, beware of seat belt buckles and hot metal objects that may cause burns. MDA urges drivers to reduce speed and pay special attention to children near roads, electric bicycle riders, and scooter riders.
Safety at home – most accidents happen here
MDA emphasizes that toddlers must be supervised continuously at home, as even a minute of inattention could lead to disaster. Windows and doors must be locked regularly to prevent falls from heights, cleaning materials and hazardous substances must be locked or kept out of reach of children, and small children must be kept away from water sources in the home, the shower room, and toilets, to prevent slipping, drowning, or choking. Games and toys that can be swallowed must be kept away from toddlers. In any case of choking, MDA must be called immediately on the 101 emergency line or via the "My MDA" app and follow the instructions of the dispatchers. It must also be ensured that children drink large amounts of water and eat properly.
Hiking Safety Guidelines: Snakes, Animals, and Trails
Regarding nature trips, MDA recommends making sure that all family members are protected from the sun and equipped with large amounts of water. Avoid staying in areas of dense, tall vegetation and under no circumstances move rocks from their place, as during this period snakes awaken from hibernation and their bite may be venomous and dangerous. In the event of a snake bite, do not suck out the venom and avoid moving the victim, immediately call 101 and, if possible, photograph the snake to identify its species. If animals are roaming, stay away and avoid contact. It is recommended to sleep in regulated places, be sure to close the tent zippers to prevent reptiles and pests from entering, and shake out shoes in the morning before putting them on. Also, hiking routes should be shortened to avoid staying in the area after dark.
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