Summer is right around the corner, and as the weather becomes more appealing, you’re going to want to take advantage of it, get out the house, and travel. But the season is also the time when accident rates increase and we see many people get hurt over preventable situations. So how do you stay safe during summer vacation? Importantly, you should take your time no matter where you go!

El tráfico aumentará y, con él, los ánimos y la conducción agresiva. No es necesario que tengas prisa. Evitar el semáforo en rojo saltándote el amarillo no te va a ahorrar mucho tiempo. Dar un volantazo al coche que tienes delante y cortarle el paso al que está en la fila de al lado es más peligroso que eficiente. En lugar de eso, debes gestionar tu tiempo y planificar rutas alternativas y atajos para minimizar el tiempo de viaje y evitar la sensación de llegar tarde, que suele obligarte a darte prisa. Cuanto más cuidado tengas en la carretera, más probabilidades tendrás de evitar sufrir accidentes de tráfico.

You should also be aware of your surroundings in stores, restaurants, bars, and other places of business. Many people will spill their drinks or leave ice packs lying around, while some places have condensation and leaks from air conditioning units. The high foot traffic can make it hard for you to move from place to place, and if you’re not careful, you can easily resbalón y caída. Always take time to watch where you’re going and avoid slippery areas, and be sure to use handrails and banisters when going down steps and stairs. Summer is also a time when pet owners take their dogs out for long walks and hikes on trails and at the beach. It can be very tempting to go up and pet a dog that is enjoying itself in the sunshine, but this choice can be very dangerous.

Dogs are protective of their owners and if you go up to one without any warning or introduction, you face the risk of being attacked and bitten. It’s always a good idea to check with the dog’s owner and ask permission if you can pet the dog if it’s friendly and sociable. No matter where you are this summer, whether on the freeway trying to travel somewhere, in a restaurant enjoying a meal, or at the beach spending time in the sun, be sure to stay safe.