1. Practice outdoor grilling safety
Set up your grill at least 10 feet away from siding, deck railings and overhanging branches. In addition, keep a fire extinguisher or water hose nearby when grilling. Tell kids to play away from the cooking area. While cooking up tasty grilled foods, remember to wear short sleeves to prevent loose clothing from catching fire. Never leave a hot grill unattended.
2. Improve indoor air quality
Changing HVAC filters monthly is key during peak summer air circulation. Regular vacuuming and dusting also help capture allergens and particulates. While an air purifier is a smart extra step to trap irritants worsening allergies and asthma, maintaining a routine of basic cleaning practices makes a big difference. Improved indoor air quality lets you breathe easier all season long. Open windows regularly to let in fresh outdoor air, and avoid indoor smoking, which can worsen air quality.
3. Prioritize pool and water safety
Don't let a day of summer fun turn into a parent's worst nightmare - take water safety seriously. Always supervise children near water and ensure barriers like fencing with self-closing gates surround pools. Require life vests for weak swimmers and post pool rules. Between Marco Polos and pool noodles, prepare for crisis — brush up on CPR skills for emergencies. Also, secure chemicals to avoid accidents. Staying vigilant ensures carefree summer memories without regret.
4. Do a summer security checkup
The sunny season, unfortunately, brings a rise in home break-ins. Take steps to secure your home before jetting off on vacation. Install an alarm system and motion sensor lights to deter intruders. Trim bushes obscuring doors and windows for better visibility. Before heading to the beach, shore up your home's defenses against any would-be burglars looking to take advantage while you're away. Check all door and window locks to ensure they work well.
5. Maintain your lawn properly
Mowing grass regularly keeps your yard looking tidy and discourages pests. Wear gloves and eye protection when using sharp gardening tools to avoid injury. Store tools properly when not in use to prevent accidents. Proper care and maintenance allow you to transform your lawn into an impenetrable fortress against invading bugs and weeds, creating a pest-free oasis perfect for barefoot lounging and play.
6. Protect yourself from summer's strong sun
Blistering UV rays blaze down from the summer sun — a cosmic heat lamp in the sky. So, take cover or lather up with sunscreen. Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to exposed skin whenever outside. Seek shade under trees, umbrellas or canopies during peak sun hours. Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses for extra protection. Stay sun-smart this season to fully embrace the sunny days without burns or pain.
7. Control pesky summer pests
Warmer weather ushers in annoying critters like mosquitoes, flies and ants. Eliminate standing water around your home to deter mosquito breeding grounds. Install tight screens on doors and windows to keep insects out. As the sizzling August and September sun bears down, seal cracks and holes in the siding where pests enter. Consider natural pest control methods like defensive plants that repel insects from crashing your summer parties.
8. Prepare for summer weather events
Summer's unpredictability is part of its charm. But don't let the gorgeous weather lull you into a false sense of security. Check weather forecasts daily and secure loose outdoor furniture or objects before storms hit. Trim long tree branches before high winds weaponize them against your home. And, of course, an emergency prep kit in case Mother Nature rains on your parade. After all, she's a fickle friend who can go from sunshine to thunderstorms in the blink of an eye.
