Summer is brilliant.
Long evenings, days at the beach, festivals, road trips, swimming pools, barbecues and catching up with friends. It is the time of year when many of us make some of our best memories.
But it is also the time when we sometimes stop thinking before we act.
I am not talking about being scared or staying indoors. Quite the opposite. I want you to enjoy every minute of your summer. I just want you to stay one step ahead.
One thing I always think about is what I share online.
It is really tempting to post photos the moment you arrive at the airport or announce that you are away for two weeks. The problem is that you could also be telling complete strangers that your home is empty.
Sharing memories when you get back is often much safer than sharing your location while you are still there.
If your family uses smart lights, timers or security cameras, make sure they are working properly before you leave. A house that looks occupied is much less attractive to criminals than one that appears deserted.
When you are out, keep an eye on your belongings.
A handbag hanging on the back of a chair, a phone left on a café table or a wallet sticking out of a pocket can disappear in seconds. It only takes a moment of distraction.
The same goes for cars. Never leave valuables where they can be seen through the windows. Even an empty bag can tempt someone to break in if they think something valuable might be inside.
If you are staying in a hotel or apartment, lock the door even if you are only going to the pool for a few minutes. Use the safe if one is available, and never leave room keys or access cards lying around.
Swimming pools are fantastic fun, but they deserve respect.
Never push people into the water. Watch out for younger children. Avoid running on wet surfaces, and always pay attention to lifeguards if they are present.
If you are staying somewhere with a balcony, remember that balconies are not places for climbing, sitting on railings or taking risky selfies. Every summer we hear about accidents that could have been avoided.
The sun is another thing to take seriously.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, wear a hat when it is very hot, use sunscreen and take breaks in the shade. Heat exhaustion can creep up on you without much warning.
Looking after yourself also means looking after your friends.
If someone has had too much to drink, do not leave them alone. If somebody seems unwell, get help. If someone wants to drive after drinking or taking drugs, help them make a better decision. A real friend would rather have an awkward conversation than regret saying nothing.
Privacy matters too.
Before posting photos online, think about who else is in them. Children especially deserve their privacy, and not everyone wants their picture shared with the world. Asking first is a simple sign of respect.
Finally, trust your instincts.
If something feels wrong, it probably deserves another look. Walk away from situations that make you uncomfortable, stay with people you trust and let someone know where you are if your plans change.
Summer should be full of adventures, not avoidable problems.
So enjoy the sunshine, make memories, look after each other and remember that sometimes the smartest choice is also the simplest one.
Have an amazing summer, and I will see you again soon.
— Riley xxx
