The summer has arrived and while that might be a cause for celebration for those who have just been waiting for the weather to turn good, it should also come with a reminder that there are real health risks to be aware of. Here, we’re going to look at what you should do to ensure you keep yourself and your family safe as the season starts heating things up in earnest.
Sun Exposure
First and foremost, never forget that the sun can cause real damage if allowed to. The risk of skin cancer is ever prevalent, so be sure to invest in sun protection, including full-spectrum sunscreen, and protective clothing, and avoid excessive exposure when the sun is at its peak. A good hat and pair of shades can help to protect your face and eyes, which are most susceptible to damage from the sun, as well.
Heat Exposure
Even if you’re not spending a lot of time directly in the sun, you should also be mindful of the risk that the heat can pose. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are both very real. You can mitigate the risk of them by ensuring the family stays hydrated but when it gets hot enough, do not skimp on the air conditioning, and make sure that the space you’re in has adequate ventilation. The more humid, the greater the need for active cooling.
Pest Problems
Pests become much more prevalent in the summer. Insect bites and stings can be mitigated by using repellent, maintaining window screens, and getting rid of standing water in the garden. However, pests in the home, both insects and otherwise, can cause all manner of health issues, carrying diseases and bringing in allergens, so investing in pest control is usually the best way to deal with them. Get to know the signs of having pests in your home, such as droppings, wood shavings, and unexplained noises.
Allergens
As mentioned, pests can bring allergens with them, but these particulates tend to be much more frequent in the summer, regardless. Pollen is the most prevalent of them all. The best way to manage allergies in the home is to use air purifiers and clean the home regularly. Of course, you will want to stock up on the medicine to help you manage allergic reactions but investing in better air quality may see you needing to use it less often.
Foodborne Illnesses
In the heat, food tends to be affected by bacteria, viruses, and other health issues much more quickly. Be sure to refrigerate foods ASAP and never leave them sitting out, especially outdoors. Know how to handle your foot safely, and avoid cross-contamination, especially in the fridge, between raw meats, cooked foods, and your greens. Know the signs of food poisoning so that you can start to treat it more quickly when it becomes apparent.
Don’t let the health risks above stop you from having fun. Just be sure to do it responsibly. Nothing puts an end to a light-hearted enjoyable summer like being laid low by heatstroke or allergies.
