Summer is here and that means more opportunities to get outside and enjoy outdoor activities. Get the most of summertime fun by taking the right precautions to beat the heat and avoid too much sun exposure. Arm yourself with plenty of water, sunscreen and this common sense guide to keep summer safe and enjoyable.
No 1. Protect Your Skin
Our skin needs protection from the sun every day. In the summer this is even more important. Get in the habit of always applying sunscreen when you plan to be outdoors.
- No matter your skin type or color of your skin, you need sunscreen
- Choose SPF 30 or above
- Apply to entire body and re apply every 2 hours
- Reapply after swimming or sweating
- Wear a hat and cool clothing that protects from sun exposure
No. 2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Our bodies need a tremendous amount of water to stay healthy and hydrated (10 or more glasses a day!) Most people struggle to consume this much water on a daily basis. In the summer water is crucial to maintaining a state of health and well being.
- Start drinking water 30 minutes prior to outside activities
- Continue to hydrate during outside activities, always having plenty of water on-hand
- Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks as they work against our bodies ability to stay hydrated
No. 3. Common Sense Ways to Beat the Heat
- Avoid prolonged exposure to SUN.
- Alternate periods of activity with periods of rest in shaded / air conditioned area.
- Consider indoor air conditioned activities at public places like malls, libraries or community centers.
- Plan outdoor activities after sun goes down.
- Wear cool clothing.
No. 4. Car Smarts
A car parked in direct sunlight in the summer, can reach 131 to 171 degrees in a matter of minutes. No one should ever be left in the car while parked and unattended.
- When transporting a group of people, have a list of all individuals who are being transported, and verify at drop-off locations that everyone has exited the vehicle.
- Conduct a secondary check of the vehicle every time it is parked to ensure that no one remains inside.
- Make sure that seat belts and seat surfaces are not too hot before individuals sit down and receive assistance with buckling up
No. 5 Take Action at First Sight of Heat Illness
Symptoms of heat illness include sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea and headaches. If you become aware of these indications in yourself or others, you need to take action immediately.
- find shade
- drink water slowly
- provide good ventilation
- seek medical attention
The warm months of summer should be embraced not avoided. Follow these types and sure to make the most of summer fun.
