With summer fast approaching, remember that hot, humid weather can harm your health. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. It can also worsen certain medical conditions, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues and skin disorders.
Whether you're planning outdoor activities, lounging by the pool, or simply going about your daily routine, it's essential to take appropriate precautions to beat the heat and keep your body cool and hydrated.
So as the sun blazes overhead, here are 6 tips to ensure you’re staying safe and healthy all summer long.
Cool Off
It’s no secret that summer is hot, and staying cool should be one of your top priorities.
Stay in air-conditioned rooms as frequently as possible to avoid the heat outdoors. Be sure to avoid sitting in hot cars, as the temperatures rise quickly. If you do go outdoors, take frequent breaks to rest, find shade and drink lots of cold water.
Stay Hydrated
Water should be your best friend all summer long!
Drink plenty of fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink, as that’s a sign you’re already low on fluids. Opt for a reusable stainless steel water bottle to ensure that you’re getting ice-cold water with every sip and staying hydrated all day.
Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke can appear very quickly and unfortunately, kills many people across the United States each year.
Signs of heatstroke include:
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Heavy sweating
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fainting
- Rapid pulse
- High body temperature
If you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, go indoors immediately. Rest in a shady or air-conditioned place, drink water, and blot your skin with cool water to help lower your body temperature.
Protect Your Skin
Sunburns are not only very painful, but they can leave you exposed to developing skin cancer.
So apply a proper sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, and reapply every hour or two when out in the sun. And if you can, stay covered by wearing long sleeves, pants and hats to ensure those harmful UV rays can’t hurt you.
Watch for Bugs
Those pesky bugs can really make or break your summer, so don’t let them bite!
Mosquitoes and ticks are hungry and looking to bite, so do what you can to ensure they don’t bite you and potentially pass on an infectious disease. Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, utilize bug sprays and repellents, and always check yourself for ticks after being around bushes, trees or grass.
Stay Safe in the Water
One of the best ways to cool off during the summer season is to hit the beach, lake, or pool nearby.
But drownings and water-related injuries are serious concerns during the summer, so be sure to watch yourself and others while in or around a body of water. Never go in the water alone, learn and practice your swimming skills, wear flotation devices if needed, and don’t hesitate to call for help if there is a situation.
