As temperatures rise, so does your time outdoors — but it’s important to stay safe in the sun. Here’s a checklist to keep you and your family safe while enjoying the season:
- Wear sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen to protect yourself from UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours.
- Stay hydrated: About three out of four Americans are chronically dehydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and heat stroke.
- Keep the bugs and ticks away: Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and ticks. After spending time outdoors–especially in wooded areas–check your clothing, body and pets for ticks. Tip: Always apply sunscreen first. Wait 10 minutes for it to fully absorb before applying insect repellent.
- Stay cool: It’s easy to get overheated in the summer sun. Head indoors if temperatures get too high and pay attention to local heat advisories.
- Ensure sports safety: Whether your child is rollerblading or swinging a bat, make sure he or she is wearing equipment that fits properly and is in good condition.
- Listen to the lifeguard: Remind everyone not to run near pool edges and review diving rules before anyone takes the plunge. If the water is shallow a headfirst dive is off-limits. Even when a lifeguard is on duty keep a close eye on young children when they are near water.
- Wear your shades: Protect your eyes by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses. This helps prevent long-term vision damage and reduces the risk of eye cancer.
- Pack a health kit: With kids out of school and vacations in full swing, your family will be on the go. Keep a basic first aid kit handy that includes bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic, 1% hydrocortisone cream, and aloe vera gel for treating sunburns and minor injuries.