Summer Safety

• Summer is a fun time of the year. The cold of winter is gone. The rains of Spring are behind us. Sun and fun abound.•While we’re out there enjoying the outdoors, we should keep a few things in mind to ensure that our fun doesn’t lead to problems that would keep us from having fun.

•Sunburn• The sun can provide many benefits to us. Too much

sun, however, can lead to painful burns on our skin.• There are a few ways that you can minimize your

chances of getting sunburn and still enjoy the outdoors.1. Use sunscreen.2. Find shady spots to enjoy.3. Limit your exposure to the sun.4. Wear a hat and a light jacket or long sleeves.

•Sunstroke• If you stay out in the sun too long on a hot day, you can

overheat.• Take these simple steps to avoid sunstroke.1. Drink lots of cool liquids.2. Use a fan.3. Stay in the shade.4. If you still are too hot, sit in air conditioning for a

while.

•Dehydration• Our bodies consist of about 75% water.• When it is hot out, we sweat to cool off and lose some of

the water in our bodies.• This water needs to be replenished so we don’t become

dizzy, disoriented, and experience headaches and muscle cramps.• If you plan to go outdoors, remember to bring plenty of

water with you that you can drink to avoid dehydration. • The more you sweat, the more you should drink. That

way, you can enjoy even more fun in the sun.

•Heat Index• Heat index, a calculation that combines heat and

humidity, is a good indicator of whether/how long you should spend outdoors.• If it is extra muggy outside, the heat index is higher and

it feels hotter to you, making it tougher for your body to withstand the heat.• According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a heat index

of over 91 degrees can lead to health challenges for people. You should take precautions such as drinking cold water, wearing a hat, using a fan, and heading indoors for some air conditioning if the heat index is elevated.

•Sun Glare• Your eyes are a precious resource.• In order to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun,

you can do the following.1. Wear polarized sunglasses.2. Wear a baseball-style cap.3. Sit in shady areas.

•Water Safety• Experiences in lakes, pools, and rivers can be a fun part

of Summer activities.• Staying safe near and in the water is very important.• You can take several steps to keep yourself safe while

you have fun in and near the water.1. Never swim alone.2. If you go in the water, never dive in head first.3. Stay near the shore of lakes and away from piers.4. Wear a life jacket if you go boating.

•Bee Stings• Bees become more active in the summer.• Some people are very allergic to bee stings.• As you enjoy Summer activities, here are a few tips to

keep from being stung by bees.1. Close drink containers when you set them down.2. Look at your chair seat before you sit.3. Don’t swing your hand at bees to shoo them away.4. Note the location of bee hives and stay away from

them.5. If you are allergic to bee stings, always carry your

medication with you.

•Have fun this summer. Enjoy the great outdoors and stay safe.