23 Jul Summer Safety
Summer Safety
Summer activities can increase your exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. UV light is not visible to humans but can be harmful to your health. The two types of UV light are: UVA and UVB. UVA goes deeper into the skin. UVA damage causes wrinkles, skin cell damage and even cancer! UVB causes damage on the superficial outer layer of the skin. UVB is the main cause of reddened/sunburned skin as well as skin cancer. Broad spectrum sunscreen and sunglasses with UVA & UVB protection are great ways to yourself as you enjoy summer activities.
5 “S”teps for Summer Sun Safety:
- Slip on protective clothing. Long sleeve shirt and pants
- Slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours
- Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
- Seek shade
- Slide on wrap-around sunglasses
Exercise is important to your health, but, can be dangerous in extreme heat. When you sweat, you need to replenish the fluid you are losing in order to prevent dehydration. Dehydration is dangerous because you can become lightheaded and feel sick. In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to kidney failure and even death.
Here are a few ways you can exercise safety in the warm weather:
- Avoid exercising outdoors during the hottest period of the day (10am – 4pm)
- Wear light colored and loose fitting clothing
- Exercise in a shaded area, if possible
- Drink water and non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic fluids before, during and after exercise
- Stop exercising if you begin to feel dizzy
Be aware of and watch for the symptoms of heat-related illness in yourself and others. Here is a short list; heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, muscle cramps, irritability, increased heart rate, confusion, fainting, and red, hot, dry skin or high body temperature. Keep in mind kids and elderly people will be affected by heat more quickly. If someone is experiencing symptoms, get them to shade and cool them down. If the symptoms are severe, call 911 right away, they need help fast!
Enjoy your summer and stay safe!
Sources: www.skincancer.org, www.cdc.gov
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