Have you ever noticed the burn lines on your feet after forgetting to apply sunscreen? Do you feel like you’re drinking more and more water but are still thirsty? Are you paying the price for not wearing bug spray?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, keep reading. You’ll get some tips on how to survive the sun, heat, outdoors and more as summer heats up.
Staying safe in the sun
To protect yourself from the sun:
- Apply sunscreen of at least 30 SPF at least a half-hour before you arrive at your outdoor destination. Reapply often, about an ounce at a time.
- Wear sun-protective clothes.
- Don’t leave home without your wide-brimmed hat.
- Wear a good pair of sunglasses that block 100% of ultraviolet rays. You might also want to try polarized lenses, which decrease glare but do not block UV rays.
- Stay hydrated. Water is your best friend when the temperature rises.
Hitting the trails
Here are a few hiking protection tips:
- Don’t taste or eat any plants, berries or mushrooms. It can be difficult to tell which ones are safe and which ones are toxic.
- Know your poisonous plants and carry cortisone cream or calamine lotion with you — just in case.
- Watch out for bees and wasps. Their stings pack a punch, which can be severe if you’re allergic to them.
On the road again
Remember these biking tips:
- Have a bike shop inspect your bike.
- Always wear your helmet. Straps should be buckled snugly. Remember, no more than 2 fingers should fit under the chin strap, and you should have about 2 finger widths between your helmet and eyebrows.
- If you’re riding at night, wear bright clothes and make sure to have a light and reflective tape on your bike so others can see you.
- Follow the rules of the road, look for possible obstacles and leave your headphones at home.
Be smart and sail safely
Many of the tips for cyclists also apply when boating:
- Have your boat inspected before you head to the water.
- Check the forecast for severe weather.
- Always wear your life jacket.
- Make sure your boat is visible at night.
- Bring along flares, electronic flares and a fire extinguisher.
- Have a medical safety kit available.
