When the sun is out and the air is warm, everyone wants to be outside as much as possible. During the Summer, there are infinite opportunities for exploration and outdoor adventure. However, there are also heightened risks to consider such as increased sun exposure and proximity to wildlife. Keep reading to learn how to have as much fun in the sun this summer as possible while keeping your family safe!

Sun burns are a bigger danger than we realize. It is possible to get a sunburn even on a cloudy day! The easiest and most effective way to prevent burning is to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wearing a hat with a large brim, sunglasses, and long sleeves/pants are also effective when coupled with sunscreen use.

When it is warm enough for us to play outside, it is also warm enough for ticks and mosquitos. Don’t get bit! Apply bug spray with lemon eucalyptus oil, picadarin, or DEET. Wear long sleeves and pants, especially when hiking or anywhere with long grasses and tall plants (a tick’s favorite hiding spot!).

Leaves of three? Let it be! Poison Ivy and Poison Oak are everywhere during the Summer. If you come into contact with these plants, the oil on their leaves will transfer to your skin and create a rash. Make sure you know what they look like so you and your family can avoid them. Poison Ivy and Poison Oak both have leaves grouped in sets of three on each stem. The edges of the leaves of these plants are often jagged and irregular. The color of Poison Ivy ranges from light green to slightly reddish. Poison Oak is typically a darker green. Poison Ivy typically grows in vines, running along the ground or vertically up a tree. Both Poison Ivy and Poison Oak are pictured below!

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! When it is hot outside, we sweat more, depleting our body of water at a faster rate. Always carry a water bottle with you, and make sure it is full before any outdoor exploration. Spend time near locations that have water bottle refill stations. Keep a backup bottle of water, or several, in case you end up somewhere you cannot immediately refill your bottle!

U.V. levels are at their most intense between 10am and 2pm. Avoid direct sunlight during this time, or make sure there is shade nearby to take a break in after being in direct sunlight during longer periods of time. Don’t be afraid to take frequent breaks to give your body a chance to recover from prolonged activity and heat exposure.

Learn more about heat-related illness and the signs and symptoms of these illnesses at:

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html

Getting outside is a great way to stay active and have fun during the Summer months. Taking simple but effective steps like applying sunscreen and drinking water are the best way to keep your family safe while enjoying the sunshine and all-things nature!

Summer Safety