Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Can we say HOT? Yes summer is just around the corner and with it comes the looking forward to fun in the sun. Millions go to the ocean, lakes, streams, or just get out and sunbath. Gotta have that wonderful looking tan you know.The temperature rises and the sweat starts to pour. The tea, water, and Soda are guzzled down at an enormous rate. Beer and other Alcoholic beverages are also guzzled down at an enormous rate.

People go boating, fishing, sailing, water skiing, hang gliding, hiking the list goes on and on. What a wonderful time millions have during the summer. However, all of a sudden reality sets in and people drown forests and homes are burned, people die, pets die, Cancer develops, children drown or die.

What is the reason for the tragedies that occurs every summer? It is plain and simple. Carelessness is the reason for such awful occurrences in the summer time. I know we think that having a wonderful tan is sexy, and makes us look desirable to the opposite Sex, but are you aware there is a consequence to getting a great looking Tan. A silent deadly killer called cancer creeps in and the cost of the tan is your life.

Make sure yourself and all members of your party where protective gear, Especially the children. When you drive, when you ski, or go in the water or any type of outdoor sporting activity, DO NOT DRINK. Alcohol is a killer, and the heat just worsens the problem. When you are outside cover your skin, and that which you cannot cover with clothing put some sun BLOCK on not sun tan lotions.

For that desperately needed liquid as the sun dries you out and dehydrates you, water is the best solution. Avoid caffeine, it is a diarrhetic and will dehydrate you, when you need to be hydrated. Plain water is what everyone should drink as the temperature goes up.Also do not leave pets and especially small children in a car, Temperatures in a vehicle are known to soar way above the 100 degree mark killing the occupants inside.

Make sure your pets have shade and plenty of water. Of course if you want to have to look for a new pet when the one you have dies, don't pay attention to what I am saying. Countless of preventable fatalities occur each summer because of the ignorance and carelessness of man kind.

Remember the verse I started with? That is so true in everyday life. If you sow carelessness in the summer you will reap the consequences, including death. If you love your family make sure safety first. Check with your local fire departments and health departments to find out what you can do to make a safe and fun summer for you and your own family. Please I implore you don't let your summer end up in tragedy and death because of carelessness. Make sure everyone in your family follows safety guideline whether they like it or not.

In closing, I have one thing to say. Ignoring safety is not macho or manly or cool at all. It is stupid and ignorant, and demands a costly consequence. I know I cannot afford the cost. Can you?

© Copyright 2001 by John and Cindy Thomas