Summer Health Tips

Extreme Heat Safety

  • Stay out of the direct sun. Seek shaded or air conditioned areas such as libraries or malls. more
  • Whenever possible, schedule outdoor events (public gatherings, sporting events) early in the morning when it's cooler and the air quality is better.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. (Avoid alcohol and caffeine.)
  • Wear light-colored, light-weight clothing. Use hats with brims and sunscreen for more protection.
  • The elderly, small children, and people with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to the heat. Call and check on friends, family, and neighbors.
  • Anyone showing signs of heat stroke (altered mental state, not sweating, nausea) should seek medical attention immediately.

Summer Vacations

Swim Safely

Swimming is a great way to beat the summer heat and it is a fun way to get exercise. Whether you are swimming in your own backyard pool, in your family or neighbor's pool, or in a natural body of water, follow these tips to keep this popular summer pastime safe:

  • Never swim alone! Even experienced or strong swimmers might need help.
  • Do not leave young children or non-swimmers unattended.
  • Encourage children and other non-swimmers to use life jackets or other approved flotation devices.
  • Sign up for swimming lessons—you are never too old or too young to learn how to swim!
  • Do not jump or dive into the shallow end of a pool.
  • Keep away from pool drains, pipes, or other openings to avoid entrapments.
  • Always keep a phone nearby.
  • Learn CPR. It's a lifesaving skill, literally.
  • Install a fence, with self–closing and self–latching gates, around backyard swimming pools. Check local ordinances or laws to make sure you are in compliance.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming and while supervising children.

Beach Safety

  • See the latest beach closures and advisories.
  • If you own a pet, remember to scoop the poop and dispose of it properly. Pet waste can pollute beaches and make people and animals sick. Follow local rules for pets at the beach, including rules for leashes more

Sun Safety

Protect yourself from exposure to the sun's rays and reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and heat stress:

  • Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and both UVA and UVB protection before you go outside, even on cloudy days.
  • Reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating or after staying outside for more than two hours.
  • Wear clothing, sunglasses, and a hat with a wide brim to protect exposed skin.
  • Seek shade, especially during midday hours.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. more

Food Safety

Rabies

Prevent animal bites and rabies by avoiding contact with wild animals.

Lyme Disease

Ticks are most active in late June and early July. Prevent Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses by avoiding ticks and tick bites.

West Nile Virus

Mosquitoes are most active in the summer months. Protect yourself against West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses by using bug spray with DEET, avoiding mosquito breeding grounds, and taking other preventive measures. more

More