7 summer safety tips for New Englanders

After a long, cold winter, summer in New England is something that many of us are looking forward to. From beach days on the Cape to hiking in Mt. Summit, the season brings plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors. But with all that sunshine and activity, it is important to keep summer safety in mind. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure that the season stays fun, healthy, and worry-free.

1. Heat and humidity awareness

Massachusetts summers can be hot and humid, especially in urban areas like Boston where pavement traps heat.

Be prepared for the heat by:

• Drinking water regularly (don’t wait until you’re thirsty)
• Limiting strenuous activity during midday heat (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
• Using air-conditioned public cooling centers during heat waves
• Applying sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside and reapplying every two hours, even on cloudy days
• Checking alerts from the National Weather Service

2. Stay safe at the beach or in the ocean

Massachusetts summers often mean time at the beach, but coastal conditions require attention to both the land and the sea.

• Swim only at lifeguarded beaches
• Learn to recognize rip currents (fast-moving channels of darker or choppy water)
• Never swim alone
• Follow posted flags, warnings, and lifeguard instructions
• Be cautious of changing weather, especially fog or sudden storms

3. Tick and mosquito protection

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health notes that tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease are common throughout Massachusetts and New England. More than 50% of all ticks carry Lyme and other diseases. Lyme transmission and tick exposure are more common in coastal areas, rural woodlands, and anywhere deer may roam. Lyme transmission from a tick bite occurs after at least 24 hours of attachment, so an early tick check after outdoor activities can make a big difference. Remove any ticks with a tweezer as soon as possible. With longer tick bite exposure, speak with your clinician about a preventive antibiotic, which should happen within 72 hours of the tick removal.

• Use EPA-approved insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
• Wear long socks and light-colored clothing in grassy or wooded areas
• Perform full-body tick checks after outdoor activities
• Shower soon after returning from hikes, dunes, or brushy areas
• Avoid standing water areas at dawn and dusk to reduce mosquito bites

If you do get a tick bite, you must remove the tick as soon as you find it. Mass General Hospital has a clinic that offers appointments for individuals who have been bitten by a tick and may have a rash or other symptoms consistent with a tick-borne disease.

4. Outdoor trail and park safety

Whether you’re hiking local conservation land or exploring coastal trails, Massachusetts outdoor spaces can shift quickly from safe to risky.

• Carry water, snacks, and navigation tools (don’t rely only on cell service)
• Wear proper footwear for uneven or slippery terrain
• Tell someone your plans before heading into less-populated areas
• Watch for sudden weather changes, especially thunderstorms

5. Storms and weather changes

Summer weather can shift quickly, with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.

• Stay updated through the National Weather Service and local alerts
• Leave beaches immediately if thunder or lightning begins
• Avoid isolated trees or open fields during storms
• Secure outdoor furniture and gear when wind alerts are issued

6. Travel safety tips

Massachusetts summers often mean road trips (or sitting in traffic). Please keep yourself and other drivers on the road safe by:

• Make sure you change your snow tires as heat is not good for them
• Do not leave children or animals in the car, even for a short period of time
• Make sure that you have an emergency preparedness kit in your car
• Make sure that your AC works on days that it is overheating; overheating can also kill the battery

7. Summer food safety

There’s nothing quite like a summer BBQ. While warm weather makes it enjoyable, the summer months also bring a higher risk of foodborne illness. Keep your gathering safe with these tips:

• Use separate plates and utensils for raw meat and poultry and for ready-to-eat foods
• Always use a food thermometer; just because a burger looks brown doesn’t mean it’s safe to eat
• Don’t leave food at room temperature for more than 2 hours; discard anything left out longer than that

Summer in Massachusetts is a time to enjoy the outdoors, from backyard gatherings to beach days and local events. Staying safe means staying mindful. Whether it’s practicing proper food handling, staying hydrated in the heat, protecting your skin from the sun, or being cautious around water, small steps can make a big difference. By looking out for one another, following simple safety guidelines, and encouraging healthy habits, we can all play a role in keeping our communities strong, healthy, and safe all summer long.