With the summer season fast approaching, this is a good time to remind yourself of some important summer safety tips.
Family summer vacations can include relaxing at the beach, swimming at the lake or rafting down the river, and a well planned vacation bag can insure that you have a healthy and fun experience.
The following items should be included when packing your vacation bag.
Sunscreen
Use the best sunscreen you can buy that will give you the highest SPF protection against both UVA and UVB rays (a minimum of 15 SPF). Apply the sunscreen at least a half an hour before you go out into the sun. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and after swimming or if you have perspired. Studies have shown that people generally apply half the amount of sunscreen recommended.
Sunglasses
Wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes from the sun. Make sure the sunglasses have a protection of at least 90% of UV radiation. The sunglasses should contain a label giving you the protection factor.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Wear a hat, it is far more effective in shielding the sensitive skin on the face and scalp from the damaging UV rays.
Sandals or Water Shoes
Protect your feet by wearing sandals or shoes, in case you come across various things such as, sharp rocks, hot sand and other uncomfortable surfaces..
Umbrella
If you plan on being out in the sun for a long period of time, make sure you have an umbrella or you are wearing protective clothing.
Bottled Water
To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water. If it is extremely hot outside, you can run the risk of heat exhaustion if you don't keep your body hydrated. Be careful not to drink too many alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, they may increase dehydration.
Watch
Wear a watch so that you can keep track of how long you have been in the sun and to know when to reapply your sunscreen. Try to stay out of the sun between the hours of 10:00am to 2:00pm to avoid getting a severe sunburn.
Sunburn Lotion
If you do get a sunburn, it's a good idea to re-hydrate your skin with a moisturizing lotion.
Cell Phone
Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency.
If you swim in the ocean, these summer safety tips will help to keep you and your family safe:
If at all possible, stay within a close distance of a lifeguard station.
Before entering the water, check out the surf conditions.
Look out for any warning signs or flags indicating any dangerous conditions.
Never swim alone.
Keep away from docks, piers and pilings.
Look out for rip currents and swim parallel to the beach to get out of the rip current. Remember that rip currents can be very dangerous.
We hope that these summer safety tips will help keep you and your family safe. Enjoy your summer!
Jeannie and Paul Laris are co-authors and advisors on Emergency, Disaster and First Aid Information. Their website EmergencySuppliesInfo.com, will give you up-to-date information and videos on what to do before, during and after an emergency.
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