Staying Safe and Healthy in the Florida Heat!

Staying safe in the florida heat banner break the cycle

As the long-awaited summer season arrives, it’s essential to prioritize our well-being and stay safe while basking in the sun, enjoying outdoor activities, and taking refreshing dips in the water. With the rise in temperatures and increased exposure to the elements, it becomes crucial to be mindful of sun, heat, and water safety. By adopting a few simple precautions, we can ensure a summer filled with enjoyment while minimizing the risk of sunburn, heatstroke, and water-related accidents. In this article, we will explore various ways to stay safe during the summer months.

Sun & Skin Care

Shield yourself from the sun’s rays:

Wear sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Seek shade: Limit your time in direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Find shade under trees, umbrellas, or wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.
Dress appropriately: Choose lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers your skin. Opt for breathable fabrics that provide protection without trapping heat.

Have fun in the sun, but keep your skin safe! Learn how to protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage, and reduce your risk for skin cancer.

Heat Stress

Beat the heat:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary or alcoholic beverages as they can lead to dehydration.
Take regular breaks: Engage in outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. Rest frequently in shaded areas and avoid overexertion to prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Keep your living spaces cool: Use air conditioning, fans, or natural ventilation to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. If you don’t have access to air conditioning, visit public spaces such as libraries, malls, or community centers that offer cooling options.

During our hot summers it is important to remember that working and playing outdoors can lead to heat-related illnesses. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of heat stress and how to prevent it.

Drowning Prevention

Water safety:

Learn to swim: Enroll in swimming lessons to acquire essential water safety skills. Ensure young children and non-swimmers are always accompanied by a responsible adult while in or near water.

Use life jackets: When participating in water activities such as boating or kayaking, wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. This is especially important for weak or non-swimmers.
Be cautious around natural bodies of water: Stick to designated swimming areas, as currents, submerged hazards, and varying depths can be dangerous. Pay attention to signs and warnings and follow lifeguard instructions.
Pool safety: Install barriers, such as fences and safety gates, around home pools to prevent unsupervised access. Keep a close eye on children in and around pools and never leave them unattended.

Touch Supervision is effective drowning prevention. Touch Supervision means being within an arm’s reach of children while in or near water, close enough to touch them. Learn more about Drowning Prevention.

Beach Safety

The beach and other open water areas are great places to enjoy the outdoors. Before you go, check the Healthy Beaches report to make sure the water quality is Good.

Make sure you know when to Swim it, Short it or Dodge it and protect yourself while having fun in the water!