By Molly Dillon
Anyone can be at-risk for heat or sun-related injury or illness. As we head outside this summer, it is important that we protect ourselves, our families, and our clients from the heat and sun. With the right protective measures, we can safely enjoy the beautiful weather all season long!
Heat Safety
According to the National Safety Council, those most at risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke are:
☀️Those who work in the heat
☀️Infants and young children, especially in hot cars
☀️People 65 and older
☀️People who are ill, have chronic health conditions, or are on certain medications
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends the following measures for keeping yourself, your family, and your clients safe in the heat:
☀️Stay hydrated and drink water before you get thirsty
☀️Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke (confusion, dizziness, becoming unconscious)
☀️Take time to rest and cool down on hot days
Sun Safety
Sun safety is important all year round, but especially during the summer months when people are spending more time outside. Sun exposure can cause sunburn, eye damage, and increase the risk of skin cancer, which is the most common of all cancers.
You can reduce the risks associated with sun exposure by keeping the following tips from the FDA in mind:
☀️Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10am and 2pm when the sun’s rays are the most intense
☀️Wear clothing to cover skin such as long sleeves, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses
☀️Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF value of 15 or higher, regularly, and as directed
☀️Apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days
☀️Read the label to ensure you are using your sunscreen correctly