Wednesday was the last day of school for the Marietta and Warren school districts, meaning that now all Washington County students are out of school for the summer.
That means a lot more children will be outside playing, riding bikes and exploring.
It's a time when drivers should be extra vigilant, keeping their eyes open for children as well as anyone who might be out enjoying the warmer weather.
We encourage local residents to use extra caution.
Summer can be full of fun activities but there are also dangers that come along, from poison ivy and bug bites to grilling injuries.
For parents, remember to have your children fitted for bicycle helmets if they're going to ride. The Marietta Health Department will do this for free.
For those young and old, remember to apply sunscreen often. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and is often preventable.
Groups including the American Academy of Dermatology recommend products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
There are other ways to protect yourself from the sun as well. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and the skin around your eyes.
Teach children what poison looks like, and remind them of traffic and safety rules.
Have fun this summer but remember to educate yourself on anything that could ruin that fun. Know what to look for and how to respond. A little awareness and common sense can go a long way in creating a happy, healthy season.
