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Summer Safety Series
As temperatures rise and summer activities ramp up, the City of Panama City created an initiative aimed at helping residents and visitors stay safe, cool and well-prepared throughout the season.
The practical safety tips below cover everything from heat protection and water safety to hurricane preparedness and outdoor recreation guidelines. Whether you're a local enjoying backyard barbecues or a visitor heading to the waterfront, these timely tips are designed to help everyone make the most of summer safely.
This campaign is presented in partnership with the Panama City Police Department and Panama City Fire Department as part of our shared commitment to public safety.
Quick tips:
- For charcoal grills, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add flammable liquid to an open flame.
- Pets and children should be kept at least three feet away from all grills.
- Grills should be placed outside of your home, deck railings, eaves or overhanging branches.
- Keep your grill clean. Remove all grease and fat buildup from the grill and the trays below after each use.
Between 2018 and 2022, Florida had 31,011 emergency room visits for heat-related illnesses.
While our hot temperatures make for the perfect day out on the water, they also pose a significant health threat without proper precautions. The Panama City Fire Department advises anyone working or enjoying time outdoors to hydrate the night before, wear loose articles of clothing, take frequent breaks, and avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages while in the heat.
What starts as a simple case of overheating can quickly escalate to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, creating a life-threatening situation. Act fast to cool down if you suspect you are suffering from heat exhaustion and immediately dial 911 in cases of heat stroke.
Before you head out to the Island, check out these safety tips from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Know the rules and regulations of the water, stay alert, pack the proper gear, and boat responsibly in congested waters. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping everyone safe.
For more information on boating tips and regulations, visit myfwc.com or view the Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations.
Stay safe this holiday weekend by planning ahead and thinking twice before driving home. Last year, the Panama City Police Department made nine DUI arrests during the Fourth of July weekend. With the proper prevention, this number can easily be zero.
Driving under the influence doesn’t just put the driver at risk, it endangers everyone on the road. If you see someone attempting to drive impaired, speak up or call law enforcement. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we can help prevent needless accidents and keep our community safe.
If you're lighting fireworks at home for the Fourth of July, remember that you are handling explosives. Keep children and pets away, maintain a safe distance after lighting, never light fireworks under the influence, and dispose of them properly by submerging them in water before throwing them away.
The safest way to celebrate is by leaving it to professionals at a public fireworks display.
For any firework safety questions or non-emergencies, contact the Panama City Fire Department at 850-872-3055.
Hot weather can be dangerous for pets, especially during the summer months. To keep your furry friends safe and comfortable, follow these simple tips:
Never leave pets in a parked car – Even with windows cracked, temperatures can rise to deadly levels in minutes.
Provide plenty of water – Keep fresh, cool water available at all times to prevent dehydration.
Limit outdoor activity – Walk pets early in the morning or late in the evening when it's cooler. Avoid hot pavement, which can burn paws.
Offer shade and ventilation – If pets are outside, ensure they have access to shade and a well-ventilated area.
Watch for signs of heatstroke – Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. Seek veterinary help immediately if you suspect heatstroke.
Stay alert and proactive during hot weather to keep your pets safe. A few precautions can prevent serious health risks.