With summer break in full swing, Dallas ISD safety officials are sharing helpful reminders to keep students safe and healthy throughout the season.
“Summer is a time to celebrate accomplishments, like finishing the school year or graduating, and to look ahead to new adventures,” said Chief Albert Martinez of the Dallas ISD Police Department. “At the same time, the season brings its own challenges, such as extreme heat and large gatherings.”
Martinez encourages having a basic safety plan in place before participating in any summer activity. Simple steps like wearing a life vest during water activities, applying sunscreen before spending time outdoors, and taking breaks to cool down when the temperature rises can make a big difference in preventing common summer risks.
Alongside general safety tips, Martinez emphasized the need to consider family routines during the summer months. While school is out, many parents continue working, which means some children may spend time at home unsupervised. According to Martinez, children under the age of 13 should not be left alone.
“Having a responsible teenager or adult available to supervise can help protect younger children and provide peace of mind,” he said.
Graham Swenson, emergency manager for the Office of Emergency Management, said overheating and water-related incidents are some of the most common summertime safety issues in the area.
“These risks can be significantly reduced with proper hydration, nutrition, rest, and access to shade or air conditioning,” Swenson said. “When it comes to swimming, it’s important to stay in areas with lifeguards, understand individual swimming ability, take lessons when needed, and never swim alone.”
Whether visiting a pool, lake, or splash pad, reading and following posted rules is key. Older siblings who remain alert and aware of their surroundings can also help promote a safer environment for everyone.
Both Swenson and Martinez emphasized the need for heat safety in Dallas, where summer temperatures often climb into the triple digits.
“Hydration and shade are two of the most effective ways to stay safe from heat-related illness,” said Martinez. “Athletes, for instance, begin hydrating days in advance of outdoor activities, and families can benefit from doing the same.”
For student-athletes training during the summer, Dallas ISD enforces UIL guidelines that are designed to ensure student safety. These include required cooling stations, limits on outdoor practice hours, and mandatory cancellations of activities when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature reaches 92.1 degrees or above.
With summer programs like Summer Breeze, and other seasonal programming, underway, Dallas ISD staff are well-prepared to handle a variety of incidents, Swenson said.
“The district conducts emergency drills regularly, including for severe weather situations,” he said. “Our health services team is highly trained to recognize and treat heat-related conditions quickly and effectively.”
These protocols include access to water, shaded areas, and air conditioning, especially during large events where cooling stations are set up as a precaution.
Swenson also recommends that families prepare for severe weather at home by assembling an emergency go-bag. Items such as candles, battery packs, radios, water, extra clothes, and non-perishable food can help households stay safe during unexpected events.
His advice for families heading into the summer is straightforward.
“Make plans based on the activities being considered — whether swimming, sports, or travel— and then prepare for the conditions those activities might involve,” he said.
With thoughtful preparation and attention to seasonal safety, students and families can enjoy a summer that is not only fun, but safe and well-planned.
