West Orange, U.S.A. — With summer in full swing, children and adults are spending more time outdoors – and with that comes the risk for more accidents, injuries and heat-related complications.

“Swimming, biking, and other summer sports are all great activities that offer exercise and other health benefits,” said Dr. Karen Kepler of Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation. “But studies show that the potential for sprains, strains and broken bones, as well as more serious brain and spinal cord injuries, increases during the summer months. Many of these injuries can be attributed to the simple fact that more people are outdoors doing more things: whether it’s travelling to the beach, lake or pool; going boating; pursuing more extreme hiking and mountain biking; or just playing at the local playground. And what can make matters worse are the high temperatures and humidity levels that can result in heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.”

Children are at particular risk. For example, nearly 40 percent of playground-related injuries occur between May and September when children are out of school, spending more time outdoors and often without adequate supervision. It is estimated that this summer children will be rushed to emergency departments nearly 3 million times for serious injuries and more than 2500 children will lose their lives due to an unintentional injury, according to a recent National Safe Kids Campaigns study.

To help minimize the risk of injury, Kessler Institute, a national leader in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation, offers the following safety and prevention tips for children and adults:

• By the Water: Always check the depth of the water before entering, whether you’re at a pool, lake or beach. If at the ocean, watch for sand bars and changing currents or riptides. Be extra cautious if diving and never dive into an above ground pool. Know your abilities and limits and always swim with another person. It’s best to swim in designated areas where lifeguards are present.
• On Wheels: Always wear a helmet when cycling. Studies have found that this can decrease the likelihood of a serious head injury by up to 90 percent. Chinstraps should be secure and tight enough to only allow one finger between strap and chin and should be adjusted to keep the helmet over the forehead. Make sure the bicycle is the proper size for the individual and that tires are properly inflated. In addition, skateboarders and rollerbladers should wear knee and elbow pads to avoid wrist fractures and other injuries.
• At Play: A parent or other adult should check swings, slides and other equipment to make sure it is in good condition, and that children cannot reach any moving parts that might pinch or trap a body part. The protective surface of the playground should be constructed of rubber, sand or other soft materials that can reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall. Children should wear sneakers or other well-fitting closed-toed shoes rather than sandals or flip-flops; hats, shirts and other garments should be free of ties or strings that can get caught on equipment. Be aware, too, that on hot, sunny days equipment can easily become warm enough to cause serious burns.
• In the Heat: Staying hydrated is critical in helping to reduce the risk of a heat-related illness. Drink plenty of water or sports drinks with electrolytes and, if possible, stay in the shade or an air-conditioned place during the hottest part of the day. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, headache, muscle cramping, dry mouth or thirst, and fatigue.

Dehydration can often lead to heat cramps, which typically affect the muscles in the legs, arms or midsection, and heat exhaustion, which can cause profuse sweating, vomiting, headaches and muscle spasms. Most serious, however, is heat stroke, which occurs when the body is unable to adequately cool itself. Heat stroke, often characterized by a lack of sweating, elevated temperature, confusion and other mental changes, is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Note that children are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses because their central nervous system, which regulates body temperature, is not yet fully developed.

“The majority of heat-related illnesses and summer injuries can be minimized by paying extra attention to weather conditions, as well as the level of physical activity. Similarly, both adults and children need to be aware of basic safety precautions when swimming, biking, playing or otherwise enjoying outdoor activities at home or on vacation,” suggests Dr. Kepler.

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Colorado Springs, U.S.A. – In an effort to improve national health, reduce dramatic rises in healthcare costs, and reduce drowning tragedies, the non-profit, National Swimming Pool Foundation is launching the Step Into Swim Campaign. The 10-year campaign will initially partner with nine organizations that teach children, adults, and minority populations to swim. Beyond the personal pain caused by poor health, the financial burden of obesity is estimated to be $147 billion/year. In addition, the tragic incidences of drowning will cost society about $100 billion for the next 20 years.

Obesity trends are likely to continue based on increased childhood obesity rates and Census Bureau estimates that there will be about 24 million more 65+ year olds in the next 10 years. Aquatic activity is one of the best activity options available for aging and out-of-shape people. Unfortunately, about half of Americans are afraid of deep water or cannot swim. “Becoming a swimmer is the first step to opening a spectrum of fun and healthy activities for the entire family — grandparents, grandkids and everyone in between,” says John Puetz, President of the NSPF Board of Directors.

The Step Into Swim campaign asks private and public sectors to sponsor or donate to organizations that teach people to swim. The National Swimming Pool Foundation issued a White Paper to explain how teaching more people to swim is imperative to address skyrocketing healthcare costs and prevent troubling drowning rates.

“There is a lot of bad health, drowning, and economic news! Here is good news. One simple step will provide a primary prevention practice to improve public health, prevent drowning and help keep our country economically sound and competitive,” declares Thomas M. Lachocki, Ph.D., CEO with NSPF. “What’s better? People will have more year-round fun with friends and family.”

Public and private sector organizations can download the white paper, learn more about the partner organizations and donate to the cause at www.StepIntoSwim.org. The first major campaign event is theStep Into Swim Congress, scheduled for October 10, 2012 from 1:00-5:00 pm, in the Nauticus Museum, beside the Battleship Wisconsin in Norfolk, Virginia. “Today, we have rolled out www.StepIntoSwim.org, where potential donors and sponsors can learn more and make a tax deductible donation. We will also share more about the upcoming Step Into Swim Congress,” explains Dr. Lachocki.

Nine Step Into Swim partners will present proposals at the Congress describing their plan to teach more people to become swimmers. The proposals will focus on swim programs for children, adults who are fearful in the water, and minority populations.

The nine partners are: YMCA of the USA, Jewish Community Centers, U.S. Swim School Association, World’s Largest Swim Lesson, Miracle Swimming Institute, Strategies for Overcoming Aquatic Phobias, American Red Cross, Make a Splash Campaign, and Swim America. “We are thrilled to organize this event and align with and support these organizations,” adds Lachocki. “In addition to organizing the Step Into Swim Campaign and Congress, the National Swimming Pool Foundation also plans to donate on an annual basis,” reinforces Puetz.

“The problem is defined. The solution is clear. The better we work together, the more impact we will make,” summarizes Puetz. “I dream of the day we help a million MORE people take the step to become swimmers,” he adds. Dr. Lachocki agrees, urging public and private organizations, “Please, take the first step by making a donation.”

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Located in the northeast section of Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountain region is a favorite summer destination for nature lovers. With an area covering 2,400 square miles, the Poconos has lush forests and scenic lakes, making it a great travel spot for anyone wanting to experience the outdoors.

The beautiful mountain backdrops create stunning views for visitors.Its proximity to major cities, including New York City and Philadelphia, has made it one of the top vacation destinations in the Northeast part of the United States.

An abundance of outdoor activities are readily available, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating and sports. Spending a relaxing vacation in the outdoors is a way for many to unplug from their daily lives and truly be one with nature.

The Pocono Mountains’ vast terrain is divided into different sections, each easily accessible and containing a numerous amount of activities. The different areas of the Poconos are the Lake Region, Upper Delaware River Region,, Delaware River Region, Lehigh River Gorge Region and Mountain Region.

With breathtaking scenery including mountain views and pristine lakefront spots, the Pocono Mountains provides a tranquil setting for quiet vacations.

Located in the Lake Region is Lake Wallenpaupack, an expansive manmade lake. Stretching around for 52 miles, Lake Wallenpaupack is an ideal place for families to swim in calm waters and picnic along its shoreline. Built in 1927, the lake has been a key ingredient in summer activities, including boating and fishing.

Aside from the prevalent water activities in the Lake Region, visitors can enjoy hiking through the forest land that surrounds the lake as well.

The Upper Delaware River Region is an area near the border of Pennsylvania and New York. For those with an adventurous side, the Upper Delaware River Region provides great opportunities for white water rafting, a popular sport for people who want an adrenaline rush.

This area has both Class I and Class II rapids, which gives visitors the chance to experience white water rafting on various levels. With a rich history as a main transportation hub for coal, this region of the Poconos has a wire cable suspension bridge, the first one ever created in the U.S.

The Delaware River Region is an area that hosts a diverse group of outdoor activities. Water sports, including swimming, rafting, canoeing and fishing are popular activities.

Hikers are able to follow trails that wind throughout the forest region, while animal lovers can easily spot deer eating in between the trees. Bird watchers can enjoy the often unspoiled elements of this region, catching glimpses of local eagles. Those with a love for horseback riding can saddle up and go for a ride in the Delaware River Region as well.

Staying in the Pocono Mountains has never been easier. The family-friendly destination has a variety of lodging options that range from truly experiencing the outdoors in tents, to luxurious spa retreats.

For those who prefer roughing it in the wild, there are more than 20 campground sites available, stretching across the whole landscape of the Pocono regions. The Chestnut Lake Campground, Cranberry Run Campground and Mount Pocono Campground are just a few camping options.

Staying in hotels and resorts are also an option when visiting the Poconos. Located on Lake Wallenpaupack, the Ehrhardt’s Waterfront Resort provides easy access to the famous lake, while also having charming hotel features including a fireplace and front porch for certain rooms.

Quaint bed and breakfasts are popular ways to stay in the Poconos. The Angel of the Morning Bed & Breakfast, along with the Cherry Valley Manor B&B is an option for those who want the feeling of home while on vacation.

Aside from the abundance of outdoor activities, the Pocono Mountains also have ample shopping centers and culinary options waiting to be experienced. For a large retail selection at cheaper prices, the expansive Crossings Premium Outlets offer famous brand clothing stores at discounted prices.

Dotting the different regions of the Poconos are also small businesses and shops selling antiques, crafts, and art. There are many options while dining in the Poconos, whether visitors decide to cook their own food while camping or head into a local restaurant for a meal.

A visit to the Pocono Mountains is an opportunity for families and nature enthusiasts to spend time in the great outdoors. With a diverse group of sport activities and leisurely recreation, there’s something fun for everyone to enjoy in the Poconos, this makes Poconos a perfect getaway.

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