Summer Safety 101: Simple Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. You may go to the pool, ride your bike, or spend time with family and friends. But hot weather can also be risky.

According to Anthony Zalewski, RN and Injury Prevention Coordinator at MetroHealth, the good news is that you can stay safe with a few easy steps.

Stay Safe in the Heat

Hot weather can make your body overheat.

Watch for signs of heat illness:

• Feeling dizzy
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Feeling very weak
• Not sweating

If this happens, go somewhere cool right away and get help.

How to stay cool:

• Drink water often
• Take breaks in the shade
• Go inside when you can
• Wear light and loose clothes
• Try to be outside in the morning or evening

Protect Your Skin

The sun can burn your skin, even on cloudy days.

Protect your skin by:

• Using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Putting it on before you go outside
• Reapplying every 2 hours
• Wearing a hat and sunglasses
• Staying out of the sun during the hottest part of the day

For more information, see Here Comes the Sun… Screen.

Drink Plenty of Water

Your body needs more water in the summer.

Easy ways to stay hydrated:

• Carry a water bottle
• Take small sips all day
• Eat foods with water, like fruit
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks

If you do not drink enough water, you may feel tired or dizzy.

Stay Safe Around Water

Swimming and water play are fun, but you need to be careful.

Stay safe with these tips:

• Never leave kids alone near water
• Always swim with a buddy
• Follow pool and beach rules
• Wear a bright colored life jacket when needed
  (avoid blue or black life jackets as they blend in with the water)

Accidents can happen quickly in water, so always stay alert.

For more tips about swimming, see Diving into Safety: Expert Swim Tips.

Prevent Injuries Outdoors

You may be more active in the summer. This can lead to injuries if you are not careful.

Stay safe while playing:

• Wear a helmet when biking or riding scooters
• Watch where you are going
• Do not go too fast
• Take breaks when you are tired

Learn more about helmet safety. Read Don’t Ride Without It.

Be Careful with Fire and Fireworks

Fireworks and grills can be dangerous.

Stay safe by:

• Letting professionals handle fireworks
• Standing far away from fireworks
• Keeping grills away from your home
• Having water nearby in case of fire

Learn more about firework safety. Read What Every Family Should Know.

When to Get Help

Get medical help right away if someone:

• Faints or passes out
• Seems confused
• Has trouble breathing
• Is very hot and not sweating
• Has a serious injury

Your Questions Answered

Q. How muchw ater should I drink in the summer?

A. You should drink water often throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. If you are sweating or outside a lot, drink even more water.

Q. What are signs that it is too hot for my body?

A. Your body may be too hot if you feel dizzy, weak, or sick to your stomach. You may also have a headache or stop sweating. Go to a cool place and get help right away.

Q. What is the best way to protect my skin from the sun?

A. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Put it on before you go outside and reapply every 2 hours. Wearing a hat and sunglasses also helps protect your skin.