Preventing Heat And Sun Related Injuries

Cooling Down In The Summer Heat 

Being at the pool on a hot summer day can be a great way to cool down from the summer heat. Other outdoor activities, whether work or play, can be risky if proper precautions are not taken.  It is important prevent exposure to the sun and heat if at all possible...if it's not possible, the following tips from the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Red Cross will help protect you and those you are with from injury.  

Skin Safety

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma. You can have fun in the sun and decrease your risk of skin cancer. Here's how to Be Sun Smart^®:

• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreenwith a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more to all exposed skin. “Broad-spectrum” provides protection from both ultraviolet A (EVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, where possible.

• Seek shade when appropriate. Remember that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If your shadow appears to be shorter than you are, seek shade.

• Protect children from sun exposure. Be sure to play in the shade, use protective clothing, and apply sunscreen. For more details please click on the link below

Protecting Yourself From The Sun

 

Heat Related Illnesses

The American Red Cross Has identified Three injuries related to working or recreating in the heat:

• Heat Cramps

are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.

• Heat exhaustion

typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity.

• Heat stroke

(also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself.

For more details on heat related injuries and their treatment click on the link below

Recognizing Heat Related Illnesses

Photo Courtesy of Westfield Group Country Club