The Top Summer Perils You Need to Avoid for a Safe and Enjoyable Season

ByAccess Health Care Physicians, LLC
summer

Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, relaxation, and making memories with friends and family. However, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards that can put a damper on your summer fun. By understanding and taking precautions against these perils, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable season. In this article, we will explore the top summer perils you need to avoid.

  1. Sunburn and Heat-related Illnesses: One of the most common summer perils is overexposure to the sun. Sunburn can not only be painful but also increase the risk of skin cancer. To protect yourself, follow these guidelines:
  • Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed skin and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
  • Seek Shade: Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade under umbrellas, trees, or canopies.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion.
  1. Dehydration: Hot weather and outdoor activities can increase the risk of dehydration. Stay hydrated by:
  • Drinking Plenty of Water: Carry a water bottle with you and sip water frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  • Avoiding Sugary and Alcoholic Beverages: These can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water, herbal teas, or infused water for flavor.
  • Eating Water-rich Foods: Include watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and other fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet.
  1. Insect Bites and Stings: Summer brings out various insects that can ruin your outdoor experience. Protect yourself from bites and stings by:
  • Using Insect Repellent: Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing. Follow the instructions on the product label.
  • Wearing Protective Clothing: When in wooded areas or areas with high insect activity, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize exposed skin.
  • Avoiding Perfumes and Bright Colors: These can attract insects, so opt for unscented products and neutral-colored clothing.
  1. Water-related Accidents: Water activities are a popular summer pastime, but they come with their own set of risks. To stay safe:
  • Learn to Swim: If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider taking swimming lessons to improve your skills and confidence in the water.
  • Use Life Jackets: When boating, kayaking, or participating in water sports, always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
  • Supervise Children: Keep a close eye on children around water and never leave them unattended.
  • Follow Water Safety Guidelines: Observe posted signs, swim in designated areas, and be cautious of currents, tides, and potential hazards in natural bodies of water.
  1. Foodborne Illnesses: Summertime picnics and barbecues can be a breeding ground for foodborne illnesses. Prevent foodborne illnesses by:
  • Practicing Good Food Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling food, and keep surfaces and utensils clean.
  • Properly Storing and Preparing Food: Keep perishable foods refrigerated until ready to use, and cook food to the appropriate internal temperatures.
  • Avoiding Cross-contamination: Separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood from ready-to-eat foods to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Also Read: How to Make a Healthy Summer Treat

At Access Health Care Physicians, we are dedicated to the delivery of primary and specialty care. Our multi-specialty group provides care to the people of Spring Hill, Florida, or other multiple locations. We specialize in the areas of internal medicine, Abdominal Ultrasound, Anodyne Treatment, Blood Draws, Bone Density Testing, Carotid Doppler, etc. Along with the array of services provided by our internists to prevent, diagnose and treat medical conditions in adults, our clinic also offers a number of other specialized services. We will always have time to serve you. You will have direct access to your physicians. We are also helping businesses take command of the healthcare they provide for their employees. No longer will businesses have to struggle to pay for quality healthcare. We will provide higher quality care at a lower price.