Summer Heat Safety Tips

During hot summer days, it’s important to take precautions to avoid heat stroke and other dangers. It’s particularly important to avoid hospitals this summer due to COVID-19 dangers. As you enjoy the warm summer weather, remember these summer heat safety tips.

Protect Your Skin

Just a few minutes in the sun during 90+ degree weather and you probably feel like your’e cooking. Skin cells can burn very quickly in extreme heat, so take steps to protect your body. Clothing with UV and/or UPF protection is ideal if you need to be in the sun. Apply sunblock on exposed skin and be sure to re-apply every 2 hours (or sooner, if you’re in the water). Sun burns are painful and increase the chances of developing skin cancer, so being diligent about your skincare will help you now and in the future.

Stay in the Shade

Stay in the shade as much as you can! Defer yard work to evening hours. Use an umbrella or tent at the beach to stay out of the sun while still enjoying beautiful views and the ocean breeze. Avoid strenuous activities while in direct sunlight outdoors. Hot summer days with extreme heat are a great excuse to relax and take it slow.

Drink Lots of Water

It’s all about the water! Your body will release sweat to regulate body temperature. You need to replace the liquids in your body to avoid heat-related illnesses. If you’re being active outdoors, consider a drink with electrolytes.

Don’t Leave Kids and Pets in Cars

Every year, hundreds of children die in hot-car deaths. Sadly, this year is no different. Whether temperatures are in the 70’s or 90’s, it’s dangerous to leave children and pets in cars. Don’t make the mistake thinking that leaving windows cracked or parking in the shade will help. Temperatures can quickly reach the 100’s and lead to severe injury or death. Even if you’re making just a quick run into a store, don’t leave your kids or pets in a hot car!

Summary of Summer Heat Safety Tips

All winter long, we pray for hot weather. Now that we have it, it might be just a little bit too hot. We hope these summer heat safety tips will help you and your family stay safe during these hot summer months.