Emergency Department's Safe for Summer wish
Staff at one of the busiest emergency departments in Wales are reminding people to enjoy the sunshine safely.
With spring having finally sprung and summer on the horizon, Morriston Hospital’s ED is bracing itself for an increase in people seeking treatment for injuries sustained from activities outdoors.
From sunburn to lawnmower accidents, and cyclists coming a cropper to barbeque burns, avoidable accidents tend to increase at this time of year.
Swansea Bay University Health Board has recently launched a Safe for Summer campaign and Senior ED Charge Nurse, Tristan Taylor (pictured), has issued a plea for people to be aware of any possible dangers.
He said: “I love enjoying the sunshine as much as anyone but, unfortunately, every summer we see an increase in people coming to us having had an accident while out and about in sunny weather.
“We see quite a few DIY or garden related accidents, with people falling off ladders or running over their feet with lawnmowers, as well as pedal and motorbike accidents at this time of year.
“Burns are another problem, whether they be from not using sunscreen in the sun or having an accident while barbecuing.
“The last thing we want to do is lecture people on how to go about their business but we do want them to enjoy themselves and remain safe – remember, the sun doesn’t shine in ED.”
When the temperature rises, people naturally think about cooling off in open water, which, in itself, can lead to potential dangers.
Tristan said: “Last year, sadly, we saw an increase in drownings, so please swim safely and follow the advice such as avoiding swimming in reservoirs and look for beaches patrolled by lifeguards.”
ED matron, Helen Thomas, echoed Tristan’s call for people to stay safe this summer.
She said: “We would never wish to curtail anyone’s enjoyment but it’s a sad fact that we usually see a spike in numbers of people presenting at ED when the weather is fine.
“Often people take advantage of the fine weather and bank holidays to work on the house or do the garden and suffer an accident or fall.
“Or they venture out further afield into the great outdoors, whether it’s the coast or mountains, and get into difficulty.
“And taking a dip or enjoying searing sunshine without precautions can also present dangers.
“All we ask is they avoid taking risks and follow any safety advice.”
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