Safety and Preparedness | weather.com

Safety and Preparedness

What Drowning Really Looks Like, From A Pediatric ER Doctor
September 3, 2025, 3:14 pm EDT
Drowning is the leading cause of death for children from 1 to 4 years old, and it takes the lives of 4,000 Americans each year, according to the CDC. But drowning does not look like what you may have seen on television. So we sought out an expert on the subject: Dr. Meghan Martin is a pediatric emergency physician in Pinellas County, Florida, where she’s seen hundreds of kids who’ve survived or died in drowning incidents. Watch this video where she describes what drowning really looks like and what you should be doing to prevent it during your Memorial Day Weekend celebrations.
This Summer Favorite Sickens Millions: How You Can Stay Safe
September 3, 2025, 3:14 pm EDT
Summer is the time to get outside and get adventurous, or maybe relax and vacation with family, but it’s also the time of year when doctors see a spike in some illnesses that can spoil all the fun. Watch this video to learn what those illnesses are and how to avoid the germs that cause them.
Survey Says: Surprising Things People Pack In Their ‘Go Bag’
August 1, 2025, 5:43 am EDT
Do you have key items in your “go bag”? What’s on your hurricane kit checklist? A survey asked 2,000 people what they’d grab if they only had five minutes to leave their house in an emergency, such as a storm, flooding, a wildfire or other impending disaster. Some of the answers might surprise you.
Parenting Through A Natural Disaster: Preparation Is Key
August 1, 2025, 5:43 am EDT
Children’s physical and mental health are more at risk during natural disasters compared to adults who live through them. Heather Talley and her family escaped Helene as the storm descended on North Carolina in September. Here’s what she learned about parenting through a natural disaster.
Not Just Seashells On The Seashore, Scary Germs Are Lurking
July 30, 2025, 12:00 pm EDT
Nothing can ruin a beach trip faster than getting sick after a swim or a walk along the shore. Watch this video to get the scoop on four of the scary germs you can encounter at the ocean or lake, and how you can protect yourself.
Danger Of Digging Holes In The Sand At The Beach
July 29, 2025, 10:25 am EDT
A teenager from Virginia recently <a href="https://weather.com/news/news/2023-05-08-teen-dies-dune-collapse-cape-hatteras-national-seashore">died at Cape Hatteras National Seashore </a>when a nearby dune collapsed into a hole he was digging and buried him under several feet of sand. It's the latest reminder that digging holes in the sand can be incredibly dangerous.
Summer Safety Alert: 5 Million Aboveground Pools Recalled
July 24, 2025, 9:11 am EDT
At the height of a heat dome that has millions seeking relief, many in their backyard pools, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued one of the largest recalls in its history. The agency says millions of aboveground pools pose a deadly risk to children. See the design flaw blamed for the deaths of nine children, and how to find out if your pool is part of the recall.
Before You Dive In, Look Out For These Hidden Beach Dangers
July 24, 2025, 6:08 am EDT
Before you hit the beach for spring break or maybe your summer vacation, there are some hidden dangers we want you to look out for. From deadly lightning to holes in the sand, watch this video to learn about the not-so-obvious threats to your safety.
Why Shaky Trees Sometimes Scare Meteorologists
July 23, 2025, 12:00 pm EDT
When strong winds and saturated soil combine, trees can topple without warning, turning roads into deadly obstacle courses. To stay safe, avoid certain wooded areas, during storms, stay alert, and do your part by reporting fallen trees.
Here’s How To Stay Safe At The Beach This Spring Break
July 23, 2025, 12:00 pm EDT
It’s about that time when hordes of people head out to warm destinations for some spring break fun in the sun. But before you take a tip in the water, be sure to review some safety advice. Here’s how to keep safe and have fun on the beach during your travels.