Summer is upon us, and that means lots of outdoor activities and fun in the sun. It’s important to protect yourself from dangers like sunburn and dehydration while outdoors. Common mistakes people make are forgetting sunscreen and not drinking/carrying enough water. Not taking precautions can be more than a minor inconvenience—it can be downright dangerous. Below your trusted California health insurance agent offers some tips for staying safe in the hot summer months.
Heatstroke is a significant problem during the summer months. A study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that there were 7,233 heat-related deaths in the U.S. between 1999 and 2009. Approximately 40% of these heat-related deaths occurred in Arizona, California, and Texas1.
Tips for Staying Safe in Hot Conditions
- To protect your skin from sunburn, wear long sleeves, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat, even in warmer weather.
- If you do wear short sleeves, shorts, or a bathing suit, make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen and reapply regularly, especially after swimming.
- Whenever possible, avoid activities outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is the most intense.
- Be especially cautious about sun exposure when taking antibiotics, as some medications increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
- Drink plenty of water, and always bring more than you think you’ll need, especially when hiking or doing other physically taxing activities. Assume you’ll need approximately 8 oz. of fluid every 15 minutes during strenuous activity. Also keep in mind that when you sweat your body loses electrolytes, so consider keeping a sports drink on hand.
By taking proper precautions you’re more likely to have a safe and fun summer.
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