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With summer activities in full swing, INTEGRIS Health encourages Oklahomans to take extra precautions around water, recreational vehicles and outdoor activities to help prevent serious injuries.

Emergency medicine physicians often refer to the summer months as "trauma season" because trauma center admissions and emergency department visits increase significantly as more people spend time outdoors. From boating and swimming to ATV and motorcycle riding, many popular summer activities carry risks that can lead to serious injuries.

Water Safety: Preventing Drowning and Boating Injuries

Water-related incidents are among the leading causes of serious summer injuries seen in emergency departments and trauma centers. Drowning can occur quickly and often silently, even among experienced swimmers. "Whether in a pool, lake or other body of water, drowning remains one of the most preventable yet devastating summer emergencies," says Cameron Ghafil, M.D., a board-certified trauma surgeon at the INTEGRIS Health Trauma Center at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center. "Adequate supervision, wearing properly fitted life jackets and practicing basic water safety can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death."

Common water-related injuries include:

• Drowning and near-drowning incidents
• Head and traumatic brain injuries
• Lacerations from propellers or debris
• Crush injuries from boating accidents
• Burns from boat engine fires

When operating or riding in a boat or jet ski, experts recommend wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol, following boating regulations and maintaining awareness of surrounding swimmers and vessels.

Recreational Vehicle Injuries Can Be Severe

ATVs, side-by-sides and motorcycles are another common source of summer trauma injuries. Rollovers, collisions and being thrown from vehicles can result in life-altering injuries, particularly when riders are not wearing proper safety equipment.

Common injuries associated with ATVs and recreational vehicles include:

• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Shoulder dislocations
• Neck and spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Leg and knee trauma

"Many of the ATV and recreational vehicle injuries we treat are preventable," says Joseph Love, D.O., the trauma medical director at the INTEGRIS Health Trauma Center at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center. "Wearing a helmet, using appropriate safety gear, avoiding excessive speeds and ensuring riders are properly trained can dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury."

Following a crash, fall, boating incident or water-related emergency, immediate medical attention may be necessary.

Warning signs that require emergency evaluation include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion or changes in mental status
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe bleeding
• Suspected broken bones
• Neck or back pain after an impact
• Symptoms of drowning or near-drowning
• Persistent headache, nausea or vomiting after a head injury

Prevention Is the Best Protection

Whether you're spending the day on the lake, riding trails or enjoying activities in your own backyard, a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries:

• Wear life jackets while boating and participating in water sports.
• Wear helmets when riding ATVs and motorcycles.
• Follow manufacturer safety recommendations for recreational vehicles.
• Avoid alcohol or drug use while operating boats or vehicles.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks during outdoor activities.
• Ensure children are supervised and using age-appropriate equipment.

As summer continues, it is important to enjoy the season while taking proper safety precautions. A little preparation can go a long way.

If an injury does occur, choosing the right level of care can make all the difference. For minor injuries, visit an INTEGRIS Health AllSet Urgent Care location. For serious injuries, including severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, drowning-related emergencies or suspected head, neck or spinal trauma, call 911 immediately.