Although Summer 2014 officially starts this Saturday, June 21st, many areas across the country are already experiencing high temperatures and we wanted to remind everyone to take precautions against the sun, heat, and humidity.
So, when you are outside in the sunshine remember to:
- Apply sunscreen and dress to protect your skin from overexposure to the sun's harmful rays - even on cloudy days.
- Use sunscreen with a sun protective factor (or SPF) of 30 or higher and be sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours if you are perspiring.
- Protect sensitive skin that burns easily, such as your nose, ears, or scalp. Wear a hat with a wide brim to keep your head cool and the sun off your face. If you are planning to be out in the sun during the warmest times of day wear light clothing that covers your exposed shoulder, arm, and leg skin.
- Drink plenty of liquids and avoid drinks with caffeine (such as coffee, tea, and some types of soda) or alcoholic beverages that actually take water from your body. -- Note: if your liquid-intake is restricted, be sure to consult your doctor about alternative forms of re-hydration.
- Use common sense and, during the warmest hours of the day, try to limit the amount of time that you are outside. Walk or work in your garden early in the morning (before 10 AM) or after the sun is lower in the sky providing you with shade. If you need to shop during the day, be aware of the additional heat and prepare accordingly by parking close to stores, using the shade as cover, and asking for assistance when loading heavy articles into your car.
- Go into an air conditioned or cooler place if you are staying indoors and still having trouble keeping cool. If you do not have family nearby who have air conditioning, try to get to a public place with air conditioning such as the local library, Council on Aging, senior center, shopping mall, movie theater, or your local place of worship.
- Let people know how you are feeling and don’t try to suffer through the heat alone. If you are feeling faint or ill from the heat or sun, let someone know: call a friend, neighbor, or family member who can help you get to a cooler area or assist you if necessary.