Whether summer is your favorite season or not, it’s probably the time of year when you’re outside the most. Being outdoors can be lots of fun, but it carries some risk, too. Now is a good time to review a few outdoor safety tips you should keep in mind this summer.
- Protect Your Skin. You’ve heard this a million times, but it bears repeating: wear sunscreen every day. According to the Center for Disease Control, you need a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also a good idea to wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long pants and long-sleeve shirts.
- Ward Off Insects. Pour out any standing water that collects after a rainstorm, and use insect repellents when you are outside. If you live an area where ticks are common, remember to check for and remove ticks from your body.
- Avoid Food Poisoning. Summer is picnic season, so take care to practice safe food handling. Always wash your hands before preparing or eating food. If you are planning a picnic lunch and you aren’t sure if there are handwashing facilities where you plan to eat, pack alcohol-based hand sanitizer and use it liberally before serving or eating the meal. Get leftovers into a refrigerator after an hour or two, depending on how hot it is outside, or throw them out. Better to be safe than sorry!
- Stay Hydrated. Every 20 minutes that you’re outside, you should be drinking water. If you’re going to be physically active and sweating for longer than an hour, a sports drink is recommended, to replenish any electrolytes you may have lost.
- Use a Weather Tracker. A weather tracker helps you stay informed and plan your day to avoid dangerous weather events, such as lightning storms or tornadoes. Knowing when extreme weather is on the way gives you the opportunity to seek shelter or make other plans. Contact Earth Networks at 800-544-4429 to learn more about comprehensive weather tracking tools that can help keep you safe all year long.
