Summer in Black Hawk County is a time for sunshine, road trips, backyard barbecues, and making memories with the people you love. But with all that fun comes the need to stay safe — and the YWCA of Black Hawk County is here to help you do just that.

Whether you're heading to the lake, hitting the road, or just enjoying your backyard, these 7 essential summer safety tips will help keep your family healthy, happy, and protected all season long.

1. Beat the Iowa Heat

Iowa summers can be intense, and heat-related illnesses like sunburn and heat exhaustion are no joke. Keep your family cool and safe by:

  • Applying SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours — more often if swimming or sweating
  • Wearing light, breathable clothing and wide-brimmed hats
  • Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Pro Tip: Keep a cooler of water bottles in the car or backyard to encourage hydration on the go.

2. Stay Safe Around Water

Whether you're at George Wyth Lake or a neighborhood pool, water safety is a must. Drowning can happen in seconds — even in shallow water. Here's how to stay safe:

  • Always supervise children near water — no exceptions
  • Enroll kids in swimming lessons (the YWCA offers affordable summer programs!)
  • Use life jackets when boating or near open water
  • Teach kids to follow pool rules and avoid rough play

Did You Know? Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1–14. Supervision saves lives.

3. Practice Smart Road Trip Safety

Planning a summer getaway? Road trips are a great way to explore Iowa and beyond, but safety should always ride shotgun:

  • Double-check that car seats and seat belts are properly installed and used every time
  • Never leave children or pets in a parked car — even for a minute
  • Pack a summer emergency kit with water, snacks, sunscreen, and first aid supplies
  • Schedule regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue

Bonus Tip: Let kids help plan stops along the way — it keeps them engaged and breaks up long drives.

4. Protect Against Insects and Disease

Camping, hiking, and outdoor play are summer staples — but so are mosquitoes and ticks. Protect your family from bites and the diseases they can carry:

  • Use EPA-approved insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
  • Wear long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas
  • Check for ticks after outdoor activities and remove them promptly

Reminder: Lyme disease and West Nile virus are present in Iowa — prevention is key.

5. Fireworks and Grilling Safety

Backyard barbecues and fireworks are summer favorites, but they come with risks. Stay safe by:

  • Leaving fireworks to the professionals — attend public displays instead
  • Keeping grills away from buildings, trees, and flammable materials
  • Supervising children around grills and fire pits
  • Having a fire extinguisher or water source nearby

Local Tip: Check for local burn bans or fire restrictions before lighting up the grill.

6. Don’t Forget Mental Health

Summer should be a time of joy, not stress. Prioritize your family’s mental well-being with these simple steps:

  • Maintain a daily routine to give kids structure and stability
  • Schedule downtime to relax and recharge — for both kids and adults
  • Reach out for support if you need it — the YWCA offers resources and referrals

Mental Health Matters: A healthy summer includes emotional wellness, too.

7. Connect with Community Resources

The YWCA of Black Hawk County is more than a place — it’s a partner in your family’s well-being. From swim lessons to youth programs to community support, we’re here to help you thrive.

Need support? Visit www.ywcabhc.org or stop by our Waterloo location to learn more.

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Stay Safe, Stay Connected

Summer is a time to explore, play, and grow — and with a little preparation, it can be safe and stress-free. The YWCA of Black Hawk County is proud to support families across our community with the tools and resources they need to enjoy every sunny moment.