5 Tips for Staying Safe While Soaking in the Summer Sun & Fun

Summer is upon us in a serious way as temperatures soar in both northern and southern California. The longer days and sunny weather mean more vacations, pool days, trips to the beach and altogether more time spent outdoors. However, during the hustle and bustle of planning summer activities, it's easy to forget about your health. Christopher Celio, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician at St. Jude Medical Center, offers five easy tips to make your summer fun safe and healthy.

1. Stay safe under the sun. "Summer is the time of year when so many of us love to go outdoors, especially for those who work indoors every day. And while we do get some vitamin D from sun exposure, it is important to be very aware of the dangers of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, which can cause skin cancer over time," says Dr. Celio. Before any prolonged sun exposure, make sure to generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin. Remember to wear hats or protective clothing when possible, and use extra caution around water and sand, which reflect the damaging rays and can increase your chances for sunburn. And if having adequate vitamin D is a concern, consider taking an oral supplement.
2. Protect your peepers. While people often remember to protect their skin with the proper SPF when in the sun, many neglect their vision. Wearing sunglasses when outdoors that block at least 99% of ultraviolet A and B ray are best. They can help prevent cataracts, as well as wrinkles around the eyes.
3. Quench your thirst. Staying properly hydrated during the summer months is crucial to your health as the body loses liquids quickly in the heat. "Make sure to drink plenty of water (8-10 cups) when the weather turns warmer,” says Dr. Celio, “especially before and after physical activity, to avoid dehydration."
4. Stop the sniffles. For many allergy-sufferers, the spring and summer months can bring an onset of symptoms due to increased pollen counts and exposure to more outdoor activities. At home during the night and while in the car, keep your windows closed and opt for air conditioning, which cleans and cools the air. Minimizing outdoor activities between the hours of 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when pollen is most prevalent, can also greatly reduce the likelihood of an allergy attack.
5. Beat the bite. The summer heat means more people outdoors in less clothing than in the cooler months. If you know you'll be outdoors for an extended period of time, try to avoid perfume or other heavy scents, as well as dark clothing, which can absorb heat and attract mosquitoes. Also be sure to eliminate all stagnant water near your home. “If you are bit,” says Dr. Celio, “apply a hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda and water over the area until symptoms subside. An over-the-counter antihistamine can also ease the itch."

What safety tips do you make sure your family follows during the summer? Share a comment below.

To learn more about Dr. Celio, click here. To learn more about St. Jude Medical Center.

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.