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Summertime safety
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Now that we are in the throes of our sweltering Georgia summer, we offer these reminders for safety.
A couple of weeks ago a mother of twins was arrested for leaving her 4- month-old children locked in her car while she went in to shop at a local discount store.

Fortunately, a Good Samaritan heard a cry coming from the car. He had the courage to investigate, called 911 and help soon arrived.

The mother was arrested and child services turned the children over to the father.

First, you should never leave a child of any age in a car unattended, no matter what the temperature is. Our type of summer weather makes it particularly dangerous for even a few moments of extreme heat. The same is true for pets.

The other reminder is about swimming pools. Some states have a law that you must have a fence around a pool; Georgia does not. The lawmakers should consider pushing this type of bill; as a result you as a homeowner or a parent need to be ever vigilant when children are around a pool.

It only takes seconds for a toddler to slip out a door and to fall into the inviting waters of a pool. That could be the moment you are on the phone or distracted by another child.

We would suggest that if you have a pool, invest in childproof locks and teach your child to swim at even a toddler's age.

We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful state that offers many great outdoor activities.
Have fun this Fourth of July holiday, but just remember, it only takes a moment of thoughtlessness to ruin your life and your family's life forever.