It’s May! Are You Ready for Summer?

The warm weather has many of us outside in the garden, or out on a spring hike or daytrip. Sure, the deck needs pressure-washing, the cars need cleaning, and weeds have taken over the flower beds. Big summer chores may feel overwhelming, but a few small fixes can help us get ready for summer fun. Here’s a checklist. What would you add?

• If you plan to have guests, a housesitter, or a pet-sitter this summer, write up instructions for your home as if it was a vacation rental. There are lots of examples on the internet that can get you started. In addition to listing your favorite restaurants, shops, parks and beaches, include emergency information. For example, list contact info for your local friends who can be called for help, where to get medical care, and how to turn off your home’s water and electricity. Also include locations of emergency supplies, such as flashlights and a first aid kit.
• Did you really remember to change the batteries in your smoke alarms when the time changed? (And did you know that Vashon Island Fire & Rescue can help with that task? go to vifr.org and look under Resources) Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher on each floor of your home.
• Wildfire season is nearly here. Get ready by stocking extra N95 masks and replacement filters for your HEPA air purifiers, in case smoke blows into our area. As of April 21, 2026, more than half of Washington State was abnormally dry or in moderate drought (see www.drought.gov/states/washington), which increases the risk of wildfires and smoke affecting our region.
• Is your barbecue at a safe distance from the house? Get a new grill-cleaning brush, the kind without metal wires that might get into your food.
• Tune up your bicycles. Invest in hi-vis jackets, vests, and helmets.
• Gather up boating supplies, and check that there’s a personal flotation device (PFD) for each boater in your household. Children may need a larger size than last summer.

Vashon walkers Katie Rowley (L) and Mary Bergman (R) in hi-vis vests. Photo by Marijke van Heeswijk

Plan Ahead For Healthy Summer Travel

We don’t think much about COVID risk while at home. When we travel, however, our exposure risk increases significantly because we cross paths with more people in enclosed spaces. Folks 65 and older should get a spring booster vaccination, ideally at least two to three weeks before travel. 

Also, measles is still spreading. Make sure everyone on your summer trip is up to date on their MMR vaccinations. Children may need booster vaccinations or sports physicals before they return to school in the fall, so an appointment with a medical provider can accomplish both.

Pack a few N95 masks in case you or someone you’re traveling with catches a summer cold. Bring some wet wipes to clean off airplane trays and arm rests, and hand sanitizer to clean hands before eating meals. Have a safe trip!