Summer Safety tipS

By Syndi Reibman

Before heading out to enjoy some summer activities, whether that means the beach, the mountains, hiking, or kayaking, here are a few things to think about before leaving the house.

If you are outdoors, take breaks from the heat and try to find an air-conditioned area, especially from 12 - 3 p.m.

Eat lighter meals and take advantage of summer fruits and fresh vegetables.

Apply sunscreen often.

Make sure your makeup has sunscreen or buy lipsticks and foundation with sunscreen.

Take cool showers.

If you must be outdoors, wear a hat with a shade brim and try to stay in the shade. Keep your drapes closed against the heat in the house.

Wear sunglasses whenever you are in direct sunlight. Wear appropriate clothes- loose, light weight, light-colored clothing.

While flip flops are easy and fun to wear, they offer no arch support and are terrible for your feet. Try not to wear them all day and alternate with better shoes or sandals that have some support.

If you have attic fans, use them to draw hot air of the house.

If picnicking or bringing food to a party, make sure it stays refrigerated or is in a cooler with proper ice. Any food left unrefrigerated will begin developing bacteria after two hours and should be tossed.

Summer means grilling. Never leave your grill unattended, especially if children are around.

Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Don’t stay in a hot car and never leave pets in a hot car.

Find cool locations to gather with friends, such as a local restaurant or mall.

Be aware of the signs of heat stress. Watch for muscle pains, cramps, or spasms, heavy sweating, paleness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and in extreme cases, confusion, fainting or unconsciousness.

If you do feel heat stress, immediately stop your activity, drink water and get in an air conditioned area or shade.

If you are on vacation, remember to set up light timers in your house and motion lights outside. If you enjoy attending outdoor concerts and similar events, remember to bring ear plugs with you to avoid damage to your ears and invest in noise canceling headphones if you have little ones or babies.

If you enjoy exercising outdoors, whether it is walking, biking, etc., be sure to have water and wear a helmet and reflective clothing when appropriate.