We really don’t think of summer as a time to think of safety, but there are many things to just be aware of when outdoors or taking casual hikes through the woods. Some things on the list are poison ivy/oak/sumac, stinging insects, places that may be slippery when climbing or walking through, areas that may have camouflaged snakes or animals that may not like intruders. We don’t want to think of the hazards when we think of summer, but we do want to practice being cautious for our own well being and any others we care about.
The poison in the oak/ivy/sumac vine is called Toxicodendron radicans, commonly known as eastern poison ivy or poison ivy, is a poisonous Asian and Eastern North American flowering plant that is well-known for causing urushiol-induced contact dermatitis, an itchy, irritating, and sometimes painful rash, in most people who touch it. The rash is caused by urushiol, a clear liquid compound in the plant's sap. The species is variable in its appearance and habit, and despite its common name, it is not a true ivy (Hedera), but rather a member of the cashew and pistachio family (Anacardiaceae). T. radicans is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are consumed by birds, but poison ivy is most often thought of as an unwelcome weed. Learn about the myths of poison ivy/oak/sumac here: https://fogo.io/blogs/news/158914311-everything-you-know-about-poison-oak-ivy-sumac-is-wrong-infographic
If you are landscaping and have items stacked up like rocks, fence posts, wood, pavers or whatever item you are incorporating into the project, be sure you are wearing gloves and carefully looking over the items being used. Wasps are known to build nests in tiny places so they can grow their larvae. Many of those wasps guard the nest, so caution must be made to prevent any accidental stings. Spiders like to make their hidden homes in dark places as well, so again wearing gloves and sometimes long sleeves if you want to be extra cautious to prevent bites. Some spiders won’t kill, but the poison can make the area welt and make you ill.
As stinging insects and spiders like to hide in the daytime, so do snakes, and nature allows these reptiles to be camouflaged in grasses, next to branches and trees, and hide in rocks. If moving any of these items know your species and back off. You could call a game warden to remove them or purchase items to keep these varmints away. Some websites have natural remedies that won’t harm them, but allows you to spray to keep them at bay. Remember, not all things are fool proof, so use good judgment when moving forward.
Lastly, make sure you practice safety when walking in areas that could be slippery, are infested with ticks and mosquitoes, and watch your step! Have the proper shoes to walk in certain conditions, pants that can be tucked into your socks, and use bug repellent lotions and sprays. These practices can save you from an itchy, miserable, painful and annoying time when all you wanted to do was have fun or improve your yard. These tips will ensure great summers as it nears closure and school will be starting with new adventures to experience.
