As Summer approaches, we look forward to travelling, taking holidays, attending events and enjoying more time outdoors. There are some simple things we can all do to stay safe throughout summer and to keep illness at bay as we enjoy the longer days and better weather.

Health and safety on the farm

https://www.countrysideclassroom.org.uk/farm-visits

As with any school visit, health and safety is of paramount importance. Just like any other venue, farms have risks. However, these can be controlled through good planning and observation of simple guidelines. Good hand washing and boot washing facilities are essential and should be checked for during your pre-visit of the farm.

Heatwaves

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hot-weather-and-health-supporting-vulnerable-people/looking-after-children-and-those-in-early-years-settings-during-heatwaves-for-teachers-and-professionals

Children can be at risk from hot weather because of their physiology, behaviours and activity levels. Children potentially at greater risk include those aged under 4 years, with health conditions or taking certain medications.

Vaccinations

https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2023/04/24/protecting-your-children-through-vaccination/

Vaccines save lives. They prevent around three million deaths worldwide every year and the World Health Organization states that after clean water, vaccination has the greatest impact on health globally.

In the UK, we are incredibly fortunate to be able to offer our children the best protection against serious and life-threatening infections through our routine childhood immunisations. The immunisation programme is designed to offer us the best protection throughout our lives, with more vaccines such as shingles and flu offered to our elderly population now.

Ticks and Lyme Disease

https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2024/03/21/what-is-lyme-disease-and-why-do-we-need-to-be-tick-aware/

Ticks in England can carry infections, including Lyme disease and — very rarely — tick-borne encephalitis (TBE).

Ticks can be active all year round, but they are most active in the months April to July, and sometimes later in the autumn. Activity continues over the winter months but at a significantly reduced level. So, we are reminding people to be ‘tick aware’ as they enjoy the great outdoors at any time of the year.

For more information, pleas email meg.coakeley@somerset.gov.uk.