Summer Safety…How Do You Beat the Heat?
Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoors, but you should take precautions and protect yourself from the summer heat and sun. The American Cancer Society reports more than one million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, most of which come from the sun; however, some exposure comes from manmade sources such as indoor tanning lamps. Small periods of time in the sunlight help your body produce vitamin D, which is important for good health.
But too much sunlight can be harmful.
Does everyone need to apply sunscreen? Yes. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), sunscreen is recommended regardless of skin type. Experts suggest you use a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection, is water resistant, and has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value of greater than 30. Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapplied every two hours.
Sunscreen comes in many types and forms, from creams to gels to sprays. It should include the following ingredients to ensure the best UVA and UVB protection: avobenzone, cinoxate, ecamsule, menthyl anthranilate, octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate, oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide.
Be sure to check the expiration date on the container before use.
So how do you beat the summertime heat? The U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests the following to prevent heat-induced illness (heat exhaustion and heat stroke), which can occur when your body is unable to cool itself by sweating.
To avoid heat-induced illness:
- Drink lots of water (about one cup every 15 minutes).
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and heavy meals.
To treat a heat-induced illness:
- Move to a cool, shaded area.
- Loosen or remove heavy clothing.
- Seek medical attention.
Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Weakness and moist skin
- Mood changes (confusion or irritability)
- Upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of heat stroke:
- Dry, hot skin with no sweating
- Mental confusion or loss of consciousness
- Seizures or convulsions