The very word conjures up images of cookouts, camping, boating, hiking, sleeping in the hammock, and travelling to new and exciting places.

Summer can also be a time of hazards as well. With the possible exception of sleeping in the hammock, all of the activities listed above can turn into disaster in the wink of an eye. According to the National Safety Council, May, June, July, and August are the most likely months for drowning and automobile accidents. But it does not have to be this way. A few simple reminders, if followed, will insure that you and your family will enjoy many more summers. BOATING

Take one of the many U.S. Coast Guard Auxillary small craft operator courses or other safe boating course. On the web, check out:

REMEMBER - Alcohol and boating do not mix!

Know your equipment. Do not allow gasoline fumes to build up in engine compartments. Carry adequate numbers of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) on board. Be aware of the fickle Maine weather. A beautiful summer day can turn into a raging thunderstorm in a matter of minutes. Use sunblock AND sunglasses. The UVA and UVB rays on the water are made even stronger by the reflected light. TRAVELLING Even though getting into a car seems like a natural thing for most of us, driving or riding in a car is the single most dangerous thing we do in life. To keep those summer trips safe, remember:

Use seatbelts! Airbags, crushzones, soft interiors, and safety engineering will not work without a seatbelt. In 49 states, it is the law. Check fluid levels. Radiator, washer, and oil levels are especially critical during those hot days.

Keep an emergency kit in your car. It should include flares, a first aid kit, a bottle of water, a blanket, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a few tools (screwdrivers, pliers, hammer).

Plan your route well. Getting lost not only wastes time, but it can get you into neighborhoods, or situations that can be dangerous.

RELAX!! Too often, the stresses of traffic, schedules, crazy drivers, and too much time behind the wheel can spoil whatÕs supposed to be a relaxing trip. Do not try to cover too much ground in a single day. Allow time to stop for those unexpected local festivals or stunning vistas. Keep flexible about scheduling.

If you do break down, get as far off the road as possible. Carry a cell phone, if possible. Stay in the car with the doors locked and windows rolled 3/4 up. If someone pulls over to help, do not get out of the car. Ask them to contact a tow truck.

FOOD SAFETY Recent news reports have heightened awareness of increasing numbers of food- related illnesses nationwide. This danger increases as outdoor temperatures rise and more food is eaten at picnics, barbecues, and campouts. To protect yourself and your family:

Cook all poultry, pork, and ground meats thoroughly. During processing, these meats are more likely to contact or contain e-coli or salmonella bacteria. Keep food prep areas clean. Use separate surfaces to prepare meat and non-meat items. Use a bleach-based cleanser to sterilize surfaces. Wash hands before all preparations and after handling meat.

Keep perishables refrigerated. Mayonnaise, egg-based products, meats, potato salad and other prepared foods are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria.

Be careful with charcoal or gas grills. Do not use them indoors. Be sure fittings are tight and units are on solid ground. Flareups can ignite clothing.

GENERAL TIPS Use sunblock and sunglasses. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A HEALTHY TAN!!! Exposure to even small amounts of direct sunlight can increase chances of skin cancer tenfold. This is especially true of young children. If you are fair-skinned or have freckles, you must be even more careful in the sun.

Stay hydrated The average adult should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, more if activities cause sweating. Avoid caffeinated beverages since caffein is a diuretic causing the body to release more fluid than it takes in. Alcohol also has the same effect, accelerating dehydration.

Summer can be a magic time, especially in Maine where it seems to last only for the 4th of July. Be careful and youÕll be able to fully enjoy it!!