Summer is officially here! That means spending more time outside in the water and the sun.
Here are a few tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.
Stay hydrated
Make sure to drink lots of fluids. If you are participating in an activity that is causing increased perspiration, make sure to replenish with water. Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks in the heat to avoid dehydrating.
Keep cool
In extreme heat, make sure you are taking breaks and getting in air conditioning. Also, make sure to never leave pets and children inside a hot car.
Signs of heat stress include, but are not limited to:
- Muscle pains
- Cramps
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fainting
If you are experiencing these signs, move to a cooler area and take a cold shower or bath. Seek medical help if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour.
Swim safely
Stay safe by swimming in areas supervised by lifeguards, as well as swimming with a buddy and never letting anyone swim alone. Do not leave young children unattended near water and have inexperienced swimmers wear life jackets in and around water. If a child is missing, always check the water first.
Keep your skin protected
Apply sunscreen before going outside with at least SPF 30 or higher and wear loose layered clothing. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites and ticks.
When wearing both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and the repellent after. Reapply sunscreen every couple of hours or sooner if you are in the water or sweating.
Watch your food
Summer is also a time when food poisonings peak due to hotter temperatures causing foodborne germs to thrive. To help prevent food poisoning, follow these four simple steps: clean, separate, cook and chill.
Along with summer also comes grilling season. Make sure to keep your grill at least 10 feet from your house and clean your grill regularly. Do not allow small children around the grill or leave it unattended. Also be sure to check for gas leaks and keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
If you experience a serious or life-threatening medical issue or emergency, call 911.
Additionally, Bon Secours has emergency care and urgent care services located throughout our markets.
