Stay Safe This Summer
Summer is the time to be out and about, having fun with friends and family. But with this oppressive heat and other problems that can crop up along with that summer fun, we want to make sure that you stay healthy while you’re doing your thing. Avoid the common dangers we all face during summer with these tips.
Stay Cool — Getting too hot is the main danger during summer. You can easily underestimate how high the temperature can be before you set off. To help stay cool:
- Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours if possible.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Young children and the elderly people are more prone to heat stroke.
Stay Hydrated — If you lose track of time or aren’t near a source of drinking water, you can easily get dehydrated. That is why it is important to:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- If you exercise, drink 2-4 glasses of cool, fluids each hour.
- Avoid liquids with alcohol or sugar.
Recognize Heat Stroke — If you fail to hydrate and stay moderately cool, you can develop a serious and potentially fatal condition called heat stroke. The best way to avoid any harm is by recognizing it quickly:
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Red, hot, dry skin
- No sweat
- Rapid pulse
- Headache
- Dizziness or nausea
If you or a companion has these signs, then call 911 immediately and move to a shaded area while cooling your/his/her body by any means available.
Sunburns — While not fatal, sunburns are definitely a bother and constant threat to all summer-goers. There is no cure, only treating the discomfort and pain. The best way is to take a pain reliever and rub aloe or other moisturizers on the affected area. Also be sure to keep the skin cool to take the sting out of the burn.
Speaking of Sting — If you are around any wooded area, you will undoubtedly encounter an insect with a nasty stinger. If you get stung, do not squeeze the area and remove the stinger by scraping your fingernail over it. Use ice to reduce the swelling.
Poisonous Plants — The dangers of the woods don’t stop with mean bugs…Poison ivy and oak are everywhere. If you rub against these leaves, you can have an allergic reaction and develop a rash. Treat by:
- Immediately rinsing the skin with rubbing alcohol or dishwashing soap and lots of water.
- Rinse frequently
- Take an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, to help the itching.
