By Frayda Kresch, MD
As summer approaches, South Florida residents are gearing up for sunshine-filled days on the beach, boat rides, backyard barbecues, and a host of other outdoor activities. But along with all the fun comes a seasonal spike in emergency department visits—many of which are preventable with proper awareness and precaution.
At Mount Sinai Medical Center, we are sounding the alarm about common trends our emergency departments—and others in the area and even the country—see every year as temperatures rise. The sharp increase in injuries and incidents related to summer activities, especially among children, is easily preventable, with the right knowledge.
Drowning is among the most serious and frequently reported emergencies during the summer. These incidents occur both in pools and open bodies of water and can happen in a matter of seconds. While children are most at risk, adults are also vulnerable—particularly when alcohol is involved during water-based activities. Another frequent issue is severe sun exposure. Extended time outdoors without proper protection often leads to sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in some cases, heat stroke.
Other common cases include dehydration due to insufficient water intake, sports and recreational injuries, severe insect bites and allergic reactions, and burns caused from grilling or misuse of fireworks.
With all that in mind, below are some tips to help families enjoy a safe and healthy summer, and avoid the emergency department altogether:
- Secure pool areas with fences, alarms, and safety covers to prevent accidental drownings in both children and adults.
- Supervise children closely when near any body of water, even if lifeguards are present.
- Avoid drinking alcohol when swimming or boating.
- Wear protective sun gear—such as lightweight, breathable clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses—and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day. Adding electrolytes can also help balance fluid levels and support nerve and muscle function.
- Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, or confusion. Seek shade, rest, or immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
At Mount Sinai, we are not only committed to educating the community about summer safety but also to ensuring access to expert medical care when emergencies do happen. With three emergency centers located throughout Miami-Dade County, Mount Sinai makes it easier for residents and visitors to receive high-quality care without the need to travel far—an especially vital service during the busy and often unpredictable summer season.
These modern, fully equipped emergency rooms are staffed by a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and technicians, ready to handle a wide range of urgent medical needs—from heat-related illnesses and water injuries to burns and allergic reactions.
A final word of caution: While summer is meant for making memories, it’s also a time to stay vigilant. Many summer emergencies are preventable with just a few simple precautions. By staying informed and taking action, families in South Florida and beyond can enjoy everything the season has to offer—safely and confidently.
Dr. Frayda Kresch is Vice Chair, Emergency Department, Mount Sinai Medical Center.
