Sun Safety
With summer here, most of us like to head outdoors. But as the temperature climbs,
so does the risk of sun- and heat-related illnesses; i.e. dehydration, sunburn and heatstroke. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself and your family:
| 1. | Learn to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses: fainting, dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, flushed skin, and body temperature of 104 degrees. |
| 2. | If someone is experiencing a heat illness, get them to a cool, shaded area where they can rest and have them slowly sip chilled water or fruit juice. |
| 3. | To help prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids and avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine |
| 4. | If you take prescription medication, check with your doctor before being in the sun for long periods of time. |
| 5. | Wear light, loose-fitting protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors. |
| 6. | Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply every two hours when outdoors (even in cloudy weather) or more frequently if swimming. |
| 7. | Avoid reflective surfaces which can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's damaging rays and avoid tanning beds. |
| 8. | No shadow--seek shade; if your shadow is shorter than you are, the more likely you are to sunburn. |
| 9. | Protect children. Minimize their time spent in the sun and apply sunscreen to children aged 6 months and older after checking with your physician. |
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