Most back pain goes away in a couple days with pain relievers, however if you find it lasting longer, associated with loss of bladder/bowel control, or pain below the waist make an appointment with your doctor. Even if you practice prevention, we know emergencies can happen at any moment. Neighbors is here for your 24/7/365. Visit nec24.com to find a Neighbors Emergency Center near you!

Camping and Hiking: The outdoors can be a great place to escape the rush of city life and enjoy a relaxing landscape. When camping and hiking, make sure you’re being safe. Allergic reactions can occur from insects and plant-based reactions. Serious falls can also land you in the ER. Many camping emergencies can happen at night, and require quick action. Don’t wait until the morning – get the medical attention you need as soon as possible.

The Beach/Pool: When you’re around any body of water, always be safe and cautious. It only takes a couple of moments for your child to start drowning. Be alert and make sure you and your kids have had swimming lessons. Playing in the sand can be very dangerous in extreme heat if you’re not properly hydrated. Protect against heat stroke by wearing sunscreen and lightweight, colored clothing, taking a break in the shade, and staying hydrated.

Bicycling: Bicycling is a great way to stay active and venture around the neighborhood or city. Make sure to wear your helmet when bicycling, head injuries are equally as common as arm/wrist injuries. Avoid bicycle vs. car accidents by taking caution and paying attention to surrounding cars who may not be able to see you when biking on streets and roads.

Barbeques: Barbeques can be a great way for family and friends to enjoy food and company outdoors. Keep children away from the grill and make sure you are handling the grill properly to avoid any fires or burns. Second degree burns can happen easily with an open flame. Be safe by teaching those around you how to use the grill (and fireworks) safely. Late night gatherings can lead to late night injuries, but remember Neighbors is open 24/7.

Summer Sports: When you’re getting out there and being active, stay safe to avoid any sports injuries. We want your sporting event to be fun and not painful. Wear the necessary sports protection like knee pads, mouth guards, and proper shoes. Make sure to stretch often, take breaks in between, and not overwork yourself. In the summer heat, playing sports outdoors can be especially taxing on your body. Stay hydrated when playing sports to replenish the water loss by sweat. Dehydration can take you to the emergency room instead of victory on the courts.

With these situations in mind, we want you to have the best summer ever. If you do happen to experience an unexpected health situation we are always here with short wait times and comfortable waiting areas. Visit https://nec24.com/ to find a Neighbors Emergency Center near you!

Be prepared this summer, and know where your nearest Neighbors Emergency Center is located. Traditional hospital emergency rooms have a standard wait time of 2 hours, while Freestanding Emergency Rooms, like Neighbors, have an average wait time of 8.5 minutes. That’s the difference between returning home and having dinner with your family after an emergency, or still sitting in the waiting room hoping to have your name called before it gets dark out.

Be on the lookout for the most common summer emergencies, and know how to combat them with awareness and knowledge.

Falls

A large amount of emergency room visits are due to injuries from a fall. This includes varying situations, such as summer based work accidents including ladders or roofs, or a child falling off of a jungle gym at the park. The greater the fall, the more likely a trip to the ER will be.

Foot Injuries

When the hot summer months hit, our shoes tend to come off. This results in many foot injuries. From kids running barefoot in the grass, to an unexpected splinter or bee sting, skin exposure of the foot and legs can cause an ER visit.

Burns

Different types of burns can land you in the emergency room. A lack of sunscreen can cause extremely harmful burns that can lead to excruciating pain. Summer barbeques can also be dangerous with both adults and children exposed to propane, and hot grates. You sould be sure to take extra precaution during any events that involve grilling.

Swimming Injuries

During the summertime, families tend to spend time in and around water. It is extremely important that as a parent you are aware of your children as they play near any body of water. Children are more likely to drown in pools, while teenagers and adults are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water. Spinal injuries from diving or jumping into water are also common.

Bicycle Injuries

Although bike riding may not seem dangerous, adults and children alike are frequently injured during biking accidents. In 2011 over 400,000 people were taken to the ER with biking injuries, many of which took place during the summer. To combat this, always make sure you and your children are wearing helmets and have on the proper pads and safety equipment.

Neighbors Emergency Center has multiple centers opening in Texas. Be sure to check out our Facebook Page for neighborly news and updates.