Summer is the season for relaxing, having fun and spending time with your family and friends. However, summer can bring extreme heat, increased risk of dehydration, foodborne illness and other health risks. Recognizing these risks and taking preventative steps will allow you to enjoy your summer. Here are a few some summer safety tips:
- When spending time outside, it is important to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Use sunscreen often, wear
sunglasses and a hat. - Pay close attention to children as they may not recognize if they are getting sunburned.
- The hottest hours of the day are typically from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. If you are outdoors during this time, stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion.
- Never leave a person or a pet in the car in hot conditions while you run to do a quick errand, even if the windows are cracked open. Cars can become overheated quickly and become like ovens.
- Older adults are particularly susceptible to heat exhaustion, especially in a hot home without air conditioning.
- Be prepared for severe weather. Have at least a three-day supply of water and nonperishable food for each person in your household, flashlights with extra batteries, a first aid kit, cell phones with chargers, supply of extra prescription medication and a battery-powered radio are just a few items to help you during a severe storm.
- Always supervise children when they are in or around water. Formal swimming lessons will help protect children and adults.
- Never let perishable foods (raw meat, poultry, eggs, cooked food, cut fresh fruits or vegetables) sit at room temperature for more than two hours before storing them in the refrigerator. When the temperature is above 90°F store food within one hour.
Enjoy the summer and remember to take precautions to remain safe. Below are links to additional information.
http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dfs/osfm/pubed/fs-topics/summer-safety-tips.html