Summer is a time for fun, outdoor activities, and spending time with family and friends. However, it is also a time when we need to be mindful of our health and safety, especially with the extreme heat and increased outdoor activities. 10 summer health and safety tips that can help keep your entire family.
10 Summer Healthy and Safety Tips
1. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial during the summer, especially when temperatures are high. Make sure everyone in the family drinks plenty of water throughout the day, especially when outdoors. Encourage children to drink water before, during, and after physical activity.
2. Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have during the summer. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make sure to apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
3. Dress Appropriately
Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing during the summer to stay cool and comfortable. Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
4. Stay in the Shade
When outdoors, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so avoid prolonged exposure during these times. Set up a canopy or umbrella at the beach or park to create your shade.
5. Protect Against Insects
Summer is also a time for insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. Protect your family from insect bites by wearing insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin. Wear long sleeves and pants in areas with high insect activity. Check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
6. Stay Active
Summer is a great time to be active outdoors. Encourage your family to engage in physical activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, or playing sports. Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and strengthens bones and muscles.
7. Practice Food Safety
Summer is also a time for outdoor picnics and BBQs. Practice good food safety by washing hands before handling food, keeping food at safe temperatures, and avoiding cross-contamination. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that meat is cooked to a safe temperature.
8. Be Careful around Water
Whether at the pool, beach, or lake, be cautious around water. Never leave children unsupervised near water. Wear a life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.
9. Protect Your Eyes
UV rays can harm your eyes just as much as your skin. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays to protect your eyes from the sun. Look for sunglasses that are labeled “UV 400” or “100% UV Protection.”
10. Take Breaks
During the summer, it’s essential to take breaks and rest when needed. Avoid overheating and exhaustion by taking frequent breaks from physical activity and staying in a cool, shaded area.
In conclusion, summer is a time for fun and excitement, but it’s also a time to be mindful of our health and safety. Follow these ten summer health and safety tips to help ensure that your family has a safe and enjoyable summer
