We know from research, such as the Adverse Childhood Experiences study (ACEs), that trauma experiences in childhood (with various forms of physical and emotional abuse, neglect, household violence, and dysfunction) shows a powerful correlation to greater risk factors of poor outcomes later in life. Those adverse consequences include a dramatically increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, depression, substance use, smoking, poor academic achievement, missed time with work, and yes, even early death. The personal, societal and financial consequences are immense and unfortunately, just as Dr. Levine states, “Trauma is perhaps the most avoided, ignored, belittled, misunderstood, and untreated cause of human suffering.”

However, there is HOPE.

“If we work together as a community, creating safety and resiliency to prevent and heal trauma, we will achieve a positive social change that will benefit each and every one in Highlands County.” - Madeleine ‘Anna’ Leonhardt, Director of Children’s Services

June & July Info: Create a summer safety plan

If you have young children or teenagers at home during the summer months, don’t forget to create a safety plan with them. Coach them on how they should respond to emergency situations and where they should go in the event they are separated from each other, their responsible adult or you. Create a list of trusted adults or neighbors they can call or text if there is an issue and they are not able to get in touch with you, and don’t forget to go over emergency numbers and what situations would require calling 911.

Make a First Aid kit

Summer is a great time to stock up or refresh your first aid kit. From bumps and bruises to scrapes and bug bites, it’s important to have all the necessary items to treat any ailment. Think about including gloves, antibiotic ointment, gauze, bandages, scissors, hand sanitizer and cold compresses to your kit.

Home safety

Before packing your bags for an upcoming trip, be sure to secure your home from would-be thieves. Lock your doors and windows and keep personal items out of sight. Think about purchasing a video doorbell camera or motion activated exterior and/or interior cameras that notify you of motion around your home. For an added level of protection, you could also consider purchasing a security system. During nights while you’re away, you could also set up smart lightbulbs to give the illusion that someone is home and deter intruders.

Pools and water safety

Taking a dip in the pool is a great way to stay cool under the hot summer sun, but without proper safety measures, can also be a major home hazard. Be sure to supervise children closely – designate an adult to always watch children in and around the water. If you’re a homeowner with a pool, be sure to adhere to local and state laws regarding pools and establish rules for your pool.

Grilling and outdoor food safety

If you’re firing up the grill this season, there are some risks that can be avoided with some mindful preparation – such as keeping your grill a safe distance from objects, keeping it clean, checking for gas leaks (if applicable), always lighting your grill with the lid lifted and keeping a fire extinguisher handy.

The great outdoors

Stay protected from sun damage by covering up when possible and using sunscreen every time you go outside. Also be sure to use effective insect repellant and check yourself and your family often for ticks and bites.

Heat and humidity are also risks to your wellness. Know the signs of heat-related illnesses and try waiting for cooler times of day to do strenuous outdoor work or exercise. Most importantly, when spending time outdoors, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

It’s also important to be aware of the local weather forecast. Thunderstorms and dust storms can be dangerous – don’t try to outrun them, be prepared to pull over if visibility is low and never drive through flooded roads.

Pet safety

When spending time outside, make sure your four-legged companions have access to clean water and a place in the shade where they can stay cool. On walks, be aware of hot asphalt and concrete. If asphalt or concrete is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. And, remember, never leave your pet alone in a vehicle. Depending on your state, it could even be illegal. Temperatures in vehicles heat up quickly during summer months which can lead to heat stroke and/or death.

Firework safety

Summer and fireworks go together, but those impressive displays can also be dangerous. Injuries like bruises, cuts and burns to the face, hands, legs — or even death — can occur. If you still want to set off fireworks, be sure to check your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure firework accidents are covered under your policy. If you’re covered, here are some safety tips:

Don’t consume alcohol when using fireworks.

Only light fireworks outdoors – away from people, houses and flammable material.

Light one at a time and quickly move away to a safe distance.

Never allow young children to handle fireworks; older children should always have adult supervision.

Sign up for a local training and become more trauma-informed!

The Hope for Highlands Task Force is still in need of more participants from various community systems as we need representatives from “all corners” of our community. If you are interested in participating, please contact Madeleine Leonhardt, Director of Children’s Services, for more information at mleonhardt@championforchildren.org. Our Task Force meetings are currently via zoom.

Task Force MONTHLY Meetings
2nd Wednesday 11 AM-12 PM