While we welcome summer and, subsequently, the sunshine this month, we also want to take the time to remind you that the sunny season isn’t ALL fun. Heed the below precautions, and your summer should be one filled with wonderful, warm days.
1. ALWAYS APPLY SUNSCREEN
You shouldn’t just be applying SPF because it’s summertime. It’s honestly something you should be doing year-round, but during the summer it’s especially important. Sunscreen helps to prevent skin cancer by protecting you from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. And skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. Anyone of any age, skin tone or gender can get it. Applying sunscreen can also help to prevent premature aging. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against UVA and UVB rays. It also recommends you seek an SPF of 30 or higher and something offering water resistance.
2. PROTECT YOUR PEEPERS
Sunglasses are another everyday essential. Some may associate them with the summer sun, but they are a valuable tool in protecting your eyes from UV rays and other elements like sand, wind and airborne debris, too. Putting on a pair of shades can also help you to see better when driving a vehicle or riding a bike. Blocking particularly bright light can also be a benefit to those who suffer from migraine headaches.
3. STAY HYDRATED
Heat and humidity, paired with activity, can be a recipe for disaster (in the form of heat stroke and dehydration) if you aren’t taking in enough fluids. Proper hydration helps to regulate our body temperature, support brain function and mood, and more. As a general guideline, aim to drink 0.5 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. Go the 1-ounce route if you’re planning to be particularly active. Certain foods are also good sources of hydration, including: melons, cucumber, celery, strawberries and bell peppers. If you struggle to drink enough water, consider adding flavor to it in the form of lemon or mint.
4. DON’T FORGET FIDO
While it may be nice that you want to include your canine companion in your adventures and daily activities, it may be kinder to leave them home at times. Your vehicle can quickly reach a temperature that puts your pet at risk of serious illness or death, even on days you may not consider hot. A car can overheat even when a window has been cracked open an inch or two, and shady parking spots offer little protection from the hot sun. Keep in mind that many states and local governments now have laws that prohibit leaving an animal in an unattended vehicle under dangerous conditions. Explains the ASPCA, “Your car could be damaged or you could be charged with a crime.” If you see an animal trapped in a vehicle on a hot day, try to find the owner or call 911 and stay by the car until help arrives.
5. BUG OFF
Unfortunately, warm weather brings bugs. If you’d like to enjoy the outdoors without swatting at gnats or being munched on by mosquitoes, there are some things you can try. First, wear light-colored clothing. You may also want to choose unscented versions of items like sunscreen, lotions, hair products and detergents. Wearing bug repellent is also a great idea, but be sure to read into the active ingredients to see what is a fit for you. And while you may not enjoy the idea of putting on long pants and sleeves when the temperatures rise, it’s important to do so if you’re going to be in an area that may be prone to an elevated tick population like the woods or tall grasses. Make a habit of checking for ticks when you get home from spending time outdoors.
