How to Prevent These Common Summer Injuries

Don’t let an injury ruin your summer fun. Here’s how to protect yourself.

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and have some fun. From carefree days in the sun to enjoying new pursuits, there’s no doubt that most people find themselves more active than usual. While that’s a good thing, it also makes us more susceptible to injuries that we may not be as likely to experience at other times of the year.

But there’s no reason to let the risk of injury ruin your summer fun. Of course, injuries can’t always be avoided, but by taking some precautions, you’re more likely to stay safer and healthier while you enjoy all that the season has to offer.

Here are tips for preventing some common summer injuries:

Water Injuries

Whether at the pool, a lake or the beach, it’s fun to cool off in the water. But it’s also important to be vigilant around any body of water to avoid slips, falls, diving injuries and drowning.  

How to stay safe:

Don’t run near water because it may be slippery.

Avoid diving in any water if you’re unsure of the depth or what may be below the surface.

Always watch kids closely when near any water, no matter how shallow it may be.

Wear life jackets in open water and on boats, even if you swim well.

Don’t drink alcohol or do drugs when swimming or boating.

Moving Injuries

Bicycles, scooters, skateboards and roller skates can be exhilarating, but falling off can lead to cuts, broken bones and concussions. The same goes for things like jumping on a trampoline or trying out a pogo stick. Minor injuries can be treated at home, but serious injuries may require a trip to the emergency room.

How to stay safe:

Wear helmets when on anything with wheels, such as bikes or skateboards (it can cut head injury risk by nearly 90%).

Use knee and elbow pads to protect against broken bones when falling.

Pay attention to what’s in front of you and look out for motor vehicles.

Only allow one jumper at a time on trampolines and install a safety net.

Strains, Sprains and Overuse Injuries

Being more active during the summer can cause strains, sprains and overuse injuries if your body isn’t up for the challenge. You don’t need to be playing a competitive game of pickleball to get hurt. Even gardening, yard work or hiking can cause issues if your muscles and joints aren’t used to the activity.  

How to stay safe:

Warm up and stretch before any activity.

Build up gradually if you’re new to an activity so your body gets used to it.

Improve strength, flexibility and endurance by engaging in low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, biking or yoga.

Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain.

A summer filled with fun, laughter and memories is always better than having to take a trip to the emergency room or spending time missing out on the festivities because you’re hurt. That’s why it’s worth taking a few precautions while you enjoy summer activities so you’re less likely to be sidelined by an injury.

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^{Date Last Reviewed: June 18, 2025}

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