This past Memorial Day weekend hopefully was a harbinger of what the summer season has to offer us this year. Many people took to the beaches, parks and opened their pools. With all the "summer" activity already going on, I would like to remind everyone to keep your family safe this summer. It only takes one careless moment to change a life forever. Unfortunately each year the local newspapers have headlines of accidental drowning and other preventable injuries. Please take the time to read these helpful summer safety tips as provided by the American Red Cross. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. And always swim with a buddy; never swim alone. The American Red Cross has swimming courses for people of any age and swimming ability. To enroll in a swim course, contact your local Red Cross chapter.

• Swim in supervised areas only

• Obey all rules and posted signs

• Don't mix alcohol and swimming. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills and reduces your ability to stay warm.

• Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.

Never leave a child unobserved around water. Always maintain constant supervision when children are around any water environment (pool, stream, lake, tub, toilet, or bucket of water), no matter what skills your child has acquired and no matter how shallow the water! Learn CPR and instruct all family members how to summon help (911 and/or your local fire department). Summer means fun in the sun! But be safe - don't let a heat-related illness ruin your day. Always drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks when working or playing in the hot weather. We are fortunate to live in an area that offers some of the best beaches and water sport areas in the country. As we get consumed in all that summer has to offer, please stop and think about you, your family and everyone's safety. Have an enjoyable and safe summer.