Summer Safety

If you’re not careful this summer, you could be at risk for heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Usually the result of prolonged exposure or physical activity in high temperatures, heatstroke requires immediate emergency treatment. Stay cool this summer by following these tips, and looking out for the signs of heatstroke or heat exhaustion.

• • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing
  • Protect yourself from sunburn Getting a sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself. Always seek shade, cover up & wear sunscreen.
  • Stay hydrated Drink plenty of fluids so that you can maintain a normal body temperature and replace the water that your body will sweat. Drink 8 to 16 ounces of water an hour before beginning a workout.
  • Never leave anyone in a parked car It’s never safe to leave anyone in a parked car in warm or hot weather, even if the windows are cracked. It is estimated that the temperature in your car can rise by 20 degrees within 10 minutes. Always double check the backseat before leaving your vehicle. On average, 37 children die each year in the US as a result of being left in a hot vehicle.
  • Avoid the hottest part of the day Try to schedule exercise or physical exertion for the cooler parts of the day, like the early morning or evening.
  • Be cautious If you take certain medications, or are at an increased risk for heat emergencies, avoid the heat and act quickly if you notice signs that you are overheating.

Heatstroke Symptoms

• • 104^oF fever or higher
  • Rapid or shallow breathing
  • Dry, red skin
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion, altered mental state or behavior
  • Seizures
  • Weak, rapid pulse
  • Unconsciousness

If you or anyone experiences these signs call 911, immediately. Remove extra clothing and move to a cool place while waiting for help. Resting in a tub filled with cool (not cold) water, or applying cool compresses to the groin, neck and armpits will help lower body temperature.

Protect the Skin You’re In

Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime? People who tan or who have had a lot of sun exposure in their lives are at an increased risk, as are people who have: light hair and eyes, fair skin, greater than 50 moles, large moles, or atypical (unusual) moles.

Examine yourself regularly to see if something new appears or if something changes. Remember to look at places you might not think to check like the soles of your feet or fingernails and toenails. Make an appointment to see a dermatologist if you find something growing, changing or bleeding. If you have risk factors for skin cancer, you should be having regular skin checks with your dermatologist.

Prevent skin cancer with these tips:

• • • Apply broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30— every 2 hours
    • Wear UV protective long sleeves/pants, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses
    • Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Don’t forget – babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight. If there is no way to avoid the sun, a small amount of sunscreen can be applied.

Water Safety Tips:

Make sure that both children and adults are safe in the water this summer with these tips!

Pool and Beach Safety:

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  • Both children and adults should never swim alone- even the strongest swimmer should always have a buddy
  • For young children or inexperienced swimmers, provide “touch supervision,” meaning the child is within arm’s reach when in or near water
  • Always supervise children closely, and at the beach, be aware of rip currents. If you get caught in one, don’t swim against it, swim parallel to the shore until clear of the current
  • Never swim during storms or lightning
  • Bright colored bathing suits are best, especially for young children, so that they can be easily spotted in and around the water

Boating Safety:

• • Children should wear life jackets at all times when on boats, docks, or near water
  • Make sure that the life jacket is the right size. It should be worn with all straps belted, and not loose