As the start of the fall season has been bestowed upon us, fresher weather, a sea of colors, and bright sunshine are prone to have many want to go out on a picnic at the park or even just for a drive away from the busy city. As you prepare for your upcoming autumn outing with your family and loved ones, here are some tips and points of caution to take into consideration before making your journey.

Watch out for Fleas & Mites – During this time of the year, as the scorching summer heat has gone, it is common for many to depart the big city to the grassy green lands of the mountains, vast fields, or river settings with breathtaking scenic views. Though out amid the great nature green, there can be a few downsides, one of them including the chances of being bitten by fleas or mites. Always be prepared when facing these tiny yet vicious insects, especially if your pets happen to accompany you on your trip. Bringing a bug repellent spray or keychain can reduce the chances of you or your pets getting bitten.


Slippery Accidents – Stream accidents should be considered and taken seriously during any fall outing. While autumn is the season for going out on day excursions, it is also a popular season for mountain hiking and stream visiting. Though many could pass with just a sprained ankle, a simple fall could end up in an even uglier accident or death in more severe events. Therefore, we should all be more cautious, especially during the fall, when the ground and rocky terrain is more slippery than usual due to fallen leaves and the sitting dew. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes or boots and doing stretches before making your grand hike can help absorb shock and help you to avoid making unexpected falls if you slip.


Food Poisoning – Letting your guard down towards the autumn season, food poisoning is something that should never occur. Though food poisoning can be something more common in the summer months, it isn’t something that should be taken lightly. With the presence of the fall’s severe temperature shifts from day to night, it can make it easier to make many a victim of food poisoning. When storing food at home and for your day’s outing, ice box storage is highly recommended always to keep your foods fresh and clean. Consuming foods within four hours after cooking is also recommended.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen! – Though the summer has bid us farewell, the sun’s UV rays have not. UV sun ray protection should always be considered to be prepared for all year round, no matter what the season. Autumn sunlight may not be as strong as summer’s; however, with lesser clouds in the sky, it is still just as effective on the skin; therefore, it is essential always to have and apply sunscreen when needed.

 

Be on the Lookout for Snakes and Bees! – Autumn’s natural beauty phenomenon can bring us much joy and healing. However, something that should be taken into caution, especially when being amidst great nature and mountains, is the presence of snakes and bees. If you get bitten by a snake, DO NOT attempt to suck out the venom! Instead, after relocating to a safer place, call paramedics, and while waiting, tightly tie the area about 5 to 10 centimeters above the bite. If stung by a bee, scratch the area with something hard and flat such as a transportation card or ID, wash with soap and water, and make your way to the neared hospital. Keep the area that was stung below the location of your heart. Protecting yourself by wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants is the best way to help lessen or avoid impact from such encounters or bites.

 

Pyeongtaek Insight always wishes you much safety and health, and now, a happy fall!